Lagos, Nigeria—As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks his birthday, a group of Nigerians is urging him to reflect on the concerns surrounding the nation’s electoral system. They believe the recent 2023 election results, marred by allegations of irregularities, demand urgent reform before the upcoming 2027 general elections.
In a heartfelt message, the unnamed group emphasized the need for the president to improve the electoral environment, which has left many Nigerians disillusioned. They recalled the past elections, especially the June 12 election, which was celebrated as free and fair, in contrast to the controversial outcomes of recent elections.
“Mr. President, we cannot easily forget the damning reports from international observers and local petitioners regarding the 2023 elections,” the group stated. “The Nigerian people desire confidence in the electoral process, which is the essence of true democracy.”
The group calls on Tinubu to empower the citizens by allowing them to nominate their electoral officers. They referenced the democratic precedent set by former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015, where the people’s choice was central to the democratic process.
“Let the Nigerian people decide their fate without interference,” they posited. “Doing so will dispel any fear that you might intend to suppress opposing views or establish a one-party state.”
In outlining their recommendations, the group insisted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman should not be appointed solely by the presidency. Instead, they propose a referendum led by civil society organizations, labor unions, and various cultural groups to ensure fair representation from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
They further suggested that each state electoral commissioner should also be elected or appointed through a consensus by these groups, ensuring that those overseeing elections are accountable to the people.
“Once these measures are in place, real-time electronic transmission of election results must happen,” they urged. “We must trust the electoral system, knowing our voices are heard in the selection of electoral umpires.”
Echoing this sentiment, they reminded the president that he has the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy of democratic integrity. “The ball is in your court, Mr. President,” they concluded. “This is your moment to either solidify Nigeria’s democracy or foster its decline.”
