With just under two years to Nigeria’s next general elections, a growing wave of concern is sweeping across the country as citizens, civil society groups, and political commentators ask a critical question:
The question has resurfaced amid lingering controversies from the 2023 elections, where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and parts of the judiciary faced widespread criticism over alleged irregularities, inconsistent rulings, and perceived partiality in electoral dispute resolutions.
Many Nigerians argue that electoral reforms have stalled, and the credibility of both INEC and election tribunals has been undermined by a series of:
Disputed results, especially at the gubernatorial and presidential levels
Delayed or contradictory court rulings
Perceived politicization of electoral bodies
A common concern is the lack of accountability. Some Nigerians believe INEC operates with little transparency, while others fear the judiciary has become too politically entangled to act as a fair check.
“If the courts are compromised, and INEC is unaccountable, then where do the people turn to?” asked political analyst Dr. Abiola Fashanu on Channels TV.
Groups like YIAGA Africa, SERAP, and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) are now demanding:
Full implementation of the Electoral Act
Real-time electronic transmission of results
Transparency in the appointment of INEC officials and judges
A special electoral offenses commission to prosecute violators
“We cannot have a democracy where the will of the people is regularly overturned or manipulated behind closed doors,” said Cynthia Mbamalu, Programs Director at YIAGA.
What Can Be Done Before 2027?
Reform advocates are pushing for:
Constitutional and legislative amendments to reduce executive control over INEC appointments
Judicial accountability mechanisms to ensure impartiality in electoral cases
Strengthening citizens’ watchdog capacity through election monitoring and civic tech platforms
Mass voter education and mobilization to raise awareness and reduce vote-buying
Many are also calling for a more engaged international community, urging ECOWAS, the AU, and development partners to monitor Nigeria's electoral environment well before the 2027 elections.
Online platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and WhatsApp have become hotbeds of civic debate, with hashtags like #FixINECNow and #JudicialReform2027 trending in recent weeks.
The 2027 elections are already shaping up to be a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy, but the battle for credible governance may be won or lost before ballots are cast.
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