Nigerian Senator Mohammed Adamu Aliero has expressed concern over the increasing trend of election losers using bribery to overturn poll results through court processes. He described this practice as a serious abuse that undermines Nigeria’s democracy. Aliero made these remarks during a retreat for the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters in Lagos.
The senator emphasized that the pattern of challenging election results in court and influencing outcomes through illicit means must be stopped. He noted that this practice has led to situations where the loser of an election is declared the winner after bribing their way through the court system. Aliero warned that such practices make a mockery of the electoral process and erode confidence in democratic institutions if left unchecked.
Lawmakers have spent over a year and a half conducting public hearings and working to reform Nigeria’s electoral system. Aliero stated that they are working to amend the Electoral Act 2022 to eliminate ambiguity, inconsistency, and discrepancies. The goal is to block loopholes that allow for manipulation and ensure free, fair, and credible elections.
The senator’s comments come as Nigeria continues to grapple with issues surrounding electoral integrity. The country has made efforts to strengthen its democratic institutions, but challenges persist. The proposed reforms aim to address these issues and promote transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Aliero’s concerns highlight the need for robust electoral laws and institutions to prevent the manipulation of election results. The Nigerian government has taken steps to address these concerns, including the establishment of an electoral reform committee. The committee’s recommendations are expected to inform future reforms and help strengthen Nigeria’s democratic framework.
The senator’s remarks underscore the importance of ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. As Nigeria prepares for future elections, the implementation of meaningful reforms will be crucial in promoting confidence in democratic institutions and upholding the principles of free and fair elections.