INEC To Introduce New Guidelines For Reviewing Election Results.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plans to draft new guidelines aimed at improving the process of reviewing declared election results in Nigeria. INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, stating that the move is part of ongoing efforts to enhance transparency and credibility in the electoral process.
The proposed guidelines will address ambiguities in existing frameworks, ensuring that result reviews are conducted with greater precision and fairness.Yakubu explained that the new rules would focus on standardising procedures for handling disputes arising from election outcomes.
This includes clearer timelines for filing complaints, stricter verification processes, and enhanced roles for electoral officers in resolving discrepancies. The initiative follows public criticism of past elections, where allegations of result manipulation and delays in addressing petitions undermined confidence in the system. INEC aims to consult with political parties, civil society organisations, and legal experts to ensure the guidelines reflect diverse perspectives.
The announcement has been welcomed by electoral observers, who see it as a step towards strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. Yakubu emphasised that the commission is committed to adopting technology, such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), to minimise errors during result collation. He also hinted at potential amendments to the Electoral Act to align with the new guidelines, though no specific timeline for implementation was provided.
Stakeholders have urged INEC to prioritise public awareness to ensure citizens understand the revised processes.While the move has generated optimism, some analysts caution that effective implementation will be critical to its success.
Previous reforms have faced challenges due to logistical constraints and resistance from political actors. INEC has pledged to conduct nationwide sensitisation campaigns and train its staff to ensure seamless adoption of the guidelines.
As Nigeria prepares for future elections, all eyes will be on INEC to deliver on its promise of a more robust and transparent electoral system.
