Odinkalu: INEC Failed FCT Election, Not Ready for 2027

Former Nigerian Rights Chief Accuses Election Commission of FCT Poll Failure

A former chairman of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission has issued a scathing assessment of the recent Federal Capital Territory (FCT) elections, accusing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of a fundamental failure in electoral administration.

Chidi Odinkalu made the comments during a television interview on Monday. He specifically criticised INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan, stating the commission’s performance constituted a failure to deliver a credible exercise. Odinkalu argued the problems were not due to legal restrictions but stemmed from what he described as a “failure of will” and poor management.

His critique focused on several key operational shortfalls. He cited poor electoral logistics, the last-minute reassignment of polling officials without adequate training, and a lack of voter education or information management. Furthermore, he pointed to unacceptable levels of violence and evidence of result alterations in some areas. A technical glitch in the collation process on election day added to the concerns.

The significance, Odinkalu warned, extends beyond the FCT’s relatively small electorate. He noted that the territory’s election is often viewed as a preparatory test for larger national polls. The scale of the observed failures, therefore, raises serious questions about INEC’s overall readiness for future elections, including the 2027 general polls.

“On this evidence, nobody can trust [INEC] to organise credible elections in 2027,” Odinkalu stated, framing the issue as one of administrative competence rather than insurmountable legal hurdles.

INEC has not yet issued a formal public response to these specific allegations. The commission’s ability to conduct transparent and peaceful elections is critical to Nigeria’s democratic stability. International observers and domestic civil society groups frequently scrutinise INEC’s performance, making such high-profile criticism a significant development in the nation’s political discourse.

The FCT election, held for the territory’s sole seat in the House of Representatives, took place on February 3, 2024. The outcome saw the incumbent retain the seat. Odinkalu’s analysis suggests the process, rather than the result, is the source of systemic concern for Nigeria’s electoral body.