By Rafiu Oladotun Odunaye
The tense relationships between politicians and lNEC election officials in Nigeria, require thorough examination
I recall the unfriendly/ hostile attitude of some politicians including a sitting governor, during the last Ondo governorship election, where false allegations were made about the Resident Electoral Commissioner's ( REC's) indigene status, and thus objection to her participation in supervising the election.
The hostility towards INEC Election officials is not a new development. It is indeed a disturbing trend in Nigeria's elections. There are so many instances. There was a sitting governor who declared an INEC National Commissioner,persona non grata in his state during governorship election in which he was a candidate. Another example was a political party that held a press conference demanding the redeployment of an Electoral Officer, citing them a threat to their party's chances.
Furthermore, a Resident Electoral Commissioner( REC ) from another state was accused of coming to plan rigging for a party, during a private visit to a state with an impending off- cycle governorship election. These incidents raise questions about whether the individuals posed a genuine threat or if ignorance and lack of understanding were the real issues.
This enlightenment is therefore imperative to correct the misconception behind it and also to sensitise on prevention of similar scenarios in up- coming elections-Bye- ELECTIONS in 16 constituencies across 12 states on August 16; off- cycle governorship elections in Anambra State, Saturday November 8, 2025; Ekiti State, Saturday June 20,2026 and Osun State , Saturday August 8,2026.
Neutrality.
Without doubt, such an attitude is likely due to concern about the neutrality of election officials.
As a matter of fact, the attitude is predicated on an erroneous belief that any candidate not favoured or having the support of INEC officials cannot win election.
This was probably the reason, why many youth corps members, were murdered in Northern Nigeria in 2011 by the supporters of a presidential candidate who lost the election .
It is a misconception lf not for ignorance, there is no reason why any politician would not trust the impartiality of INEC and INEC officials.
This is because by their training and oath, that isn't what is expected of them
If any INEC official do anything to the contrary, it is abandonment of the ethical standard/ professional ethics imparted to them. However, the heavy penalty for election manipulation by any official is sufficient to deter them from any such thing- 3years imprisonment for any returning or collation officer who intentionally deliver a false certificate of return section 120(5) & Section 64(9) Electoral Act 2022. Similarly, any Presiding Officer who intentionally undermine the electoral integrity is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of at least one year or a fine of N10m or both(Section 73(3) Electoral Act, 2022.
The Oath of Neutrality.
Election officials in Nigeria sign an oath of Neutrality( Form EC 17) committing to fairness and impartiality in the discharge of their duties. This oath ensures officials act according to the law, without bias or prejudice towards any candidate or party. The oath is a solemn promise to uphold the principles of equity, impartiality and transparency and maintain the integrity of the electoral process
Friendly Atmosphere.
A friendly demeanour from politicians towards INEC Election officials would positively impact electoral integrity, allowing the people's will to prevail.A respectful approach is crucial in addressing electoral issues .For instance, as politicians have the right to point to any observed irregularity by INEC election officials, it is best to do it politely.
Election officials are expected to be courteous, polite and helpful, treating all voters equally and with respect. However, with mutual respect and understanding, electoral stakeholders can make a significant difference in the electoral process.Politicians and officials should strive for professionalism and politeness.
.
Tense Election Situation.
In tense atmosphere of elections, even the most composed person/ individual can falter.
Despite engaging academicians as collation and returning officers, they can make errors in a tense and unfriendly situation . During a tense election situation, a Chief Lecturer serving as a collation officer frantically searched for over 30minutes for the collated results. Security agents thought he was up to a prank and threatened arrest. After intervention, the results were promptly located What seemed like a monumental task turned out to be a simple oveesight- the document was in his possession all along The lecturer was relieved and grateful. The incident highlights the importance of maintaining a calm and respectful atmosphere during elections.
All Parties Track Electoral Process.
All parties must track the electoral process to protect their interests
If the law had not precluded( section 27(1) ) a member of a political party and anyone who openly expressed support for an election candidate from officiating in an election and if a candidate for election is appointed as The Resident Electoral Commissioner( REC), he cannot help himself if other contestants do what is required by law to protect their interests.
Benefits of Awareness.
Increased awareness of the Oath of Neutrality among politicians can alleviate concerns about neutrality,minimize objections to officials participation in the electoral process, and promote a smoother and more efficient process.
Electoral Law and Guidelines.
The electoral law and guidelines in Nigeria provide clear opportunities for political parties and candidates to protect their interests in elections. Every political party /candidate entitled to have an agent each at every polling unit to witness balloting, sorting, counting of ballots,and recording of same. They are also entitled to a duplicate of the results. Moreover, a representative is allowed at every collation centre. By understanding and utilizing these provisions, political parties can ensure transparency, promote credibility and enhance electoral integrity.
Conclusion
By focusing on transparency and utilizing the provisions of the electoral law and guidelines, politicians can promote credibility and enhance electoral integrity , thereby building trust and confidence in the electoral process.It is through this understanding and application of electoral law and guidelines that politicians can truly ensure the credibility and transparency of the electoral process rather than focusing on trivial issues of objecting to the participation by any election official or display aggressive attitude to them.
Odunaye is a sociologist, political scientist and election administrator by profession.dotra56@gmail.com
0 Comments