The Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission recently commended the political stability in Ghana, highlighting the persistence of politicians like former President John Mahama, who remained loyal to his party even after losing the 2017 presidential election, until his recent re-election.
He noted that in Ghana, there is a marked reluctance for party-switching during general elections, which fosters political stability and loyalty among supporters. This contrasts with the situation in Nigeria, where political parties are often seen as vehicles for personal ambition rather than platforms for ideological consistency.
The electoral framework in Ghana may contribute to this stability, particularly with constitutional provisions that permit independent candidates to contest elections without party affiliation. This inclusivity allows independent politicians to secure significant roles within Ghana’s legislature, reducing the incentive to switch allegiances.
The recent remarks have sparked a conversation about the implications for Nigeria’s electoral practices, especially in light of the challenges faced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Critics argue that Nigeria’s political parties have become entrenched oligarchies, with constitutional provisions that restrict candidacy to party members, thereby limiting the democratic process.
The Chairman expressed optimism about Ghana’s recent elections, attributing part of their success to adopting Nigeria’s practice of announcing results at the constituency level, potentially mitigating fraud in the electoral process. However, some observers believe this focus may be a distraction from Nigeria’s struggles with electoral credibility.
The ongoing trust deficit in INEC has led to a scenario where election outcomes require judicial validation, often undermining public confidence in the electoral system. This reliance on the judiciary to adjudicate electoral disputes raises concerns about the integrity of both the electoral process and the legal system itself.
As the newly appointed Chief Justice of Nigeria seeks to restore the judiciary’s credibility, the pressures on INEC to uphold election standards remain paramount. The expectation is that if INEC can execute elections with integrity, the judicial system may not need to intervene in electoral matters, preserving the sanctity of democratic processes.
All eyes are on INEC to ensure that the electoral framework can support a fair and transparent election, reinforcing the belief in democracy among the Nigerian populace.
