As the date for the Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi governorship elections on November 11, 2023, draws near, Nigerians should be gearing up for a crucial exercise in democracy, where their voices will determine the future leadership of these states. However, troubling developments on the political stage have cast a dark shadow over the independence and integrity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), raising serious questions about the sanctity of our democratic process.

The foundation of any thriving democracy rests on the impartiality and credibility of its electoral body. INEC, established to oversee Nigeria’s electoral processes, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that elections are free and fair, and that the people’s choice is respected. The commission’s independence is paramount, as it should act without any bias or interference from political interests.

Recent events have, unfortunately, put INEC’s independence and integrity in jeopardy. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointments of alleged All Progressives Congress (APC) members as INEC commissioners have raised alarm bells across the nation. These appointments fly in the face of the clear provisions of Section 156(1)(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), which explicitly prohibits the appointment of a political party card-carrying member as one of its staff.

What is most disconcerting is the Senate’s wrongful confirmation of these appointments, disregarding the very constitutional provisions meant to safeguard INEC’s impartiality. The implications of this move are deeply troubling, as it undermines the foundational principles of democracy in Nigeria.

First and foremost, the independence of INEC has been compromised. It is imperative that INEC operates as an entity free from the undue influence of any political party or individual. To maintain the public’s trust, it is essential that INEC conducts its affairs in a transparent and non-partisan manner, ensuring that all political parties compete on a level playing field. The appointment of commissioners with ties to a particular party undermines this fundamental requirement.

Furthermore, the integrity of INEC is at stake. The perception of bias, regardless of its actual extent, can corrode the public’s faith in the electoral process. The doubts surrounding the February 2023 general election have already dented INEC’s reputation. These recent developments only deepen the skepticism surrounding the commission’s ability to deliver truly impartial and transparent elections.

President Tinubu’s actions and their potential consequences for Nigeria’s democracy are deeply concerning. Creating a system that perpetuates his dynasty and power, akin to the situation currently unfolding in Lagos State, is a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked political influence.

The situation calls for vigilance and action from all stakeholders. Nigerians, civil society, and dedicated INEC staff must resist this alarming tendency, which threatens to undermine the core principles of democracy. To protect the integrity of Nigeria’s constitutional democracy, we must uphold transparency, fairness, and the rule of law.

The erosion of INEC’s independence and integrity is not a matter to be taken lightly. It is the responsibility of every Nigerian who values democracy to ensure that the electoral process remains a fair, unbiased, and accurate reflection of the will of the people. The future of our democracy is at stake, and it is up to us to safeguard its sanctity.

•Moshood Oshunfurewa, a Social Critic, writes from Lagos.

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