Nigeria’s Bye-Elections Deemed Credible and Transparent by Domestic Observers
Domestic election observers in Nigeria have praised the country’s recent bye-elections in Chikun/Kajuru and Basawa Kewaya federal constituencies, describing the process as credible, transparent, and reflective of the people’s will. The observers, representing the Advocacy for Sustainable Development Initiative (ASDI), briefed journalists in Kaduna on Tuesday, commending the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ensuring early deployment of personnel and materials.
According to ASDI’s leader, Abdul Rasheed Shuaib, polling units opened on schedule, with the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) playing a key role in preventing electoral malpractices. Security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), were visible throughout the exercise, maintaining law and order.
While noting that voter turnout was moderate in some areas, Shuaib expressed concern about low enthusiasm among voters in certain locations, attributing this to the need for more sustained voter education to boost confidence in the electoral process. The group also confirmed the arrest of an opposition party member, Shehu Aliyu Patangi, who was allegedly caught with a significant sum of money intended for vote buying. The suspect is currently under police investigation.
Despite this incident, the observers praised the INEC for deploying its result viewing platform (IReV), which they claimed enhanced transparency and built trust in the outcome of the polls. The group also commended the professionalism of security agencies, stating that the exercise was generally peaceful, credible, and a positive step towards strengthening democracy in Kaduna and Nigeria at large.
ASDI urged the media to sustain fact-based reporting as a tool to counter fake news and electoral misinformation, while also encouraging civil society organisations to step up voter enlightenment ahead of subsequent elections. The group advised the INEC to strengthen communication with stakeholders ahead of future elections.
As Nigeria continues to strive for electoral excellence, the credibility and transparency of the bye-elections offer a promising sign of progress. The emphasis on voter education, improved communication between the INEC and stakeholders, and the role of security agencies in maintaining law and order are essential factors that will shape the country’s democratic landscape in the years to come.
