Adebayo Adenrele
A Political Activist and Civil Society Leader, Dr Usman Bugaje has said that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must be insulated and protected from political interference else the country risks the challenge of experiencing unfair and unreliable general elections come 2027.
Bugaje, who had represented the Jibia/Kaita Federal Constituency of Katsina State in the National Assembly, noted that the electoral body has lost a lot of credibility, stressing that its further negligence will put the country at risk of threats and instability.
He stated this Monday while appearing on a National Television.
He said, “Everybody is fairly aware that INEC, as presently constituted, has lost a lot of credibility. It is very important that the institution regains this credibility; otherwise, the stability of the country will be threatened. When institutions do not deliverespecially one as crucial as INEC it erodes not only confidence in the commission, but also in democracy itself.
“There are amendments the country is waiting for. For example, the amendment that former President Buhari refused to sign, which mandated INEC to use electronic tools and technology to deliver results, is still pending.
“But more importantly: why should the President, who is an interested party in the election, be the one to appoint the head of INEC? The committee has made very good recommendations, but they were blocked by those who benefit from manipulating INEC. We must rescue the commission by ensuring that its leadership is not appointed by a sitting President.
“So the key issues are twofold INEC’s credibility is at stake and we must insulate INEC from political interference. If that doesn’t happen, democracy itself will collapse.
