Strengthening Democracy through Partnerships: INEC and KDI Collaborate to Empower Future Leaders
In a significant stride towards deepening democratic development in Nigeria, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) have reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a strong partnership. This collaboration, aimed at promoting civic awareness and electoral responsibility, was evident during a recent sensitization visit to the INEC State Headquarters in Osogbo, where intern students from Osun State University (UNIOSUN) were hosted by Dr. Mutiu Agboke, Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State.
Empowering Future Advocates of Good Governance
The sensitization visit, part of ongoing efforts to educate and engage the younger generation in Nigeria’s electoral processes, provided a unique opportunity for the interns to gain insight into the country’s electoral system. Dr. Agboke commended the students for their active interest in civic knowledge and electoral participation, emphasizing the critical role they will play as future advocates of good governance. The partnership between INEC and KDI is seen as a cornerstone in this endeavor, with Dr. Agboke highlighting its significance in contributing to the deepening of democracy in Nigeria.
Understanding INEC’s Role and Structure
During the visit, Dr. Agboke delved into the intricacies of INEC’s structure and constitutional responsibilities, distinguishing between the roles of INEC and State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs). He clarified that INEC is solely responsible for conducting elections into federal offices, such as the President, Vice President, Governors, and National Assembly members, as well as elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Conversely, SIECs are tasked with conducting local government elections. Dr. Agboke also outlined INEC’s eight key departments and pre-election activities, including Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), sensitization of the electorate, and registration of political parties.
Promoting Public Awareness and Voter Education
The importance of public awareness during CVR and voter education exercises was underscored by Dr. Agboke, who noted that knowledge of these processes is significant for anyone interested in elections management in Nigeria. On election day, INEC’s responsibilities include issuing election notices and polls, deploying electoral materials, and ensuring the proper collation and announcement of results. Dr. Agboke encouraged the students to share their newfound understanding with peers and the wider public, emphasizing that the rights of a voter include the right to register, vote, and participate in a recall process.
A Reliable Partnership for Democratic Growth
Barrister Bunmi Eyelade, Kimpact’s Director of Programmes for the Southwest, praised the ongoing collaboration with INEC, highlighting the organization’s mission to raise responsible citizens who are well-informed about their electoral rights. The attendance of INEC’s Administrative Secretary, Margaret Olufunmike Segun-Osifeso, and Heads of Departments and Units within the Commission further underscored the significance of this partnership.
As Nigeria continues on its path towards strengthened democratic development, the partnership between INEC and KDI serves as a beacon of hope for the empowerment of future leaders and the promotion of civic responsibility. Through such collaborative efforts, the country inches closer to a more inclusive and informed electoral process, pivotal for the advancement of good governance and democratic stability.
