The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) has faulted the just-concluded 2023 elections by the Independent National Electoral Commissi
The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) has faulted the just-concluded 2023 elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC).
The group, specifically said the elections did not ensure a well-run transparent, and inclusive democratic process as assured by INEC.
In its final report released in Abuja on Tuesday, revealed that public confidence and trust in INEC were severely damaged during the presidential and state-level poll.
The report said, “The widely welcomed Electoral Act 2022 (the 2022 Act) introduced measures aimed at building stakeholder trust. However, the Act’s first test in a general election revealed crucial gaps in terms of INEC’s accountability and transparency, proved to be insufficiently elaborated, and lacked clear provisions for timely and efficient implementation.
“Weak points include a lack of INEC independent structures and capacities to enforce sanctions for electoral offences and breaches of campaign finance rules.
“Furthermore, the presidential selection of INEC leadership at the federal and state level leaves the electoral institution vulnerable to the perception of partiality.
“Closer to the polls some started to doubt INEC’s administrative and operational efficiency and in-house capacity.
“Public confidence gradually decreased and was severely damaged on 25 February due to its operational failures and lack of transparency.
“While some corrective measures introduced before the 18 March elections were effective, overall trust was not restored,”.
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