A civil society organisation, the Democratic Integrity Forum, has called for reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system, saying the recent governorship election in Ekiti State highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability ahead of the 2027 general elections, Peak Newspaper reports.
In a statement issued on Monday, the group’s National Coordinator, Godwin Omini, said the election had renewed public debate about the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission to maintain confidence in the electoral process.
Omini stressed the importance of safeguarding voter information, ensuring transparency in the management of electoral materials, and maintaining a level playing field for all political parties.
“The people of Nigeria deserve an electoral body that is truly independent, transparent, and insulated from partisan influence,” he said.
Omini noted that protecting voter registers, polling unit information and other electoral data is essential to preserving the credibility of elections and public trust in democratic institutions.
According to him, the issues highlighted by the Ekiti governorship election underscore the need for stronger safeguards and reforms before the next general elections.
“These developments raise profound questions about the Commission’s ability to serve as an impartial umpire in future elections, particularly the 2027 general elections,” Omini said.
The Democratic Integrity Forum urged INEC to strengthen data protection measures, improve transparency in the management of electoral materials, and reassure Nigerians of its commitment to conducting free, fair and credible elections.
