The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) are among panelists for a discussion on corruption in Nigeria’s 2023 elections. The panel was organized by The Conversation Africa, which hosts science policy dialogues with scientists and policymakers.
Other panelists include the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, Hamzat Lawal of Code4Africa, Dr. Damilola Agbalajobi, and Prof. Emmanuel Aiyede. Their primary focus is to address corruption and the role it played during the recent general election in Nigeria. Additionally, the panel will highlight the progress and challenges recorded, as well as women’s participation in the election, with the aim of learning lessons for the future.
The INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, has constantly reiterated the commission’s commitment to free and fair elections and how it is collaborating with relevant stakeholders to ensure the credibility of the electoral process.
The panel discussion is expected to be robust, comprehensive, and actionable in providing an effective blueprint for tackling corruption and fraud in Nigeria’s electoral process. This is needed as the country is known to have challenges with vote buying, rigging, and other fraudulent activities during its elections.
The Conversation Africa has been providing a platform for policymakers in Africa to exchange ideas on various topics, including health, science, and technology. This initiative is vital to the development of sound policies that will address the continent’s challenges.
With the participation of INEC and EFCC, the panelists will be able to provide insights into what measures Nigeria can take to prevent fraudulent activities during elections in 2023 and beyond. They will examine the successes and pitfalls of the previous election to come up with recommendations to enhance the credibility of the electoral process.
In conclusion, the panel discussion represents a significant step towards addressing the corruption and fraud that have marred Nigeria’s electoral process in the past. The involvement of INEC, EFCC, and other panelists brings hope that the recommendations to be made will lead to positive changes.