Atiku Expresses Concern Over INEC’s Electoral Reform Efforts

Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar has voiced concern about the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) apparent lack of commitment to improving the country’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a statement, Atiku emphasized that INEC must collaborate with the National Assembly to strengthen electoral laws and ensure credible polls.

His remarks followed a meeting with a European Union delegation led by Barry Andrews, a Member of the European Parliament and head of the 2023 EU Election Observation Mission to Nigeria. The meeting served as a follow‑up on recommendations made by the EU after the 2023 general elections, with the delegation assessing the extent to which those recommendations have been implemented.

Atiku stressed that credible elections are essential for safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy and for producing leaders who can unite the country and drive economic prosperity. He noted that expectations remain high for INEC to work with the National Assembly to provide citizens with election laws that guarantee transparent and credible elections. The former vice president expressed disappointment that, two years after the 2023 elections, there are no clear signs of INEC’s commitment to improving the electoral process.

He reiterated his support for civil society organizations, local and foreign election observation missions—including the EU Election Observation Mission—in pushing for genuine electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 elections. Atiku’s concerns highlight the importance of such reforms for Nigeria’s democratic development, as free and fair elections are crucial to the nation’s future.

With the 2027 general elections approaching, the urgency for INEC to demonstrate its commitment to improving the electoral process is growing. The international community, including the European Union, is closely watching Nigeria’s electoral landscape, and the outcome of the 2027 elections is likely to have significant implications for the country’s trajectory.