Electoral credibility starts with parties, says INEC chair
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on Thursday warned that the failure of political parties to uphold internal democracy threatens Nigeria’s electoral credibility.
Speaking at the launch of the book “Celebrating 100 Years of Political Party Evolution in Nigeria: The Imperatives of Nigeria’s Political Stability – Issues and Solutions”, organised by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Yakubu stressed that democracy begins within political parties.
He noted that the absence of transparent, fair, and credible primaries has led to widespread disputes, litigation, and electoral instability.
According to him, a democratic society cannot thrive if political parties fail to practise democracy internally. He urged political leaders to ensure that their candidate selection processes are free from manipulation, favouritism, and imposition, warning that any deviation erodes public confidence in the electoral system.
Yakubu emphasised that political parties remain the bedrock of Nigeria’s democracy, as no candidate can contest elections without party sponsorship. He insisted that parties must not only comply with constitutional and electoral guidelines but also actively promote credible leadership recruitment processes.
“One of the key responsibilities of political parties is the conduct of credible primary elections. Internal party democracy is the foundation upon which credible general elections are built. Effective leadership recruitment is possible only when eligible persons with capacity are selected through duly conducted party primaries and put forward for elections.
“When political parties uphold democratic principles in their internal processes, it enhances public confidence in the electoral system and strengthens democratic governance.
“Unfortunately, we have witnessed instances where a lack of internal democracy has led to disputes, litigation, and disruptions in the electoral process. It is, therefore, imperative that political parties remain committed to transparent, fair, and credible primaries.
“As we move towards future elections, I urge all political parties to strengthen their internal governance mechanisms and ensure that their processes reflect the will of their members. A democratic society begins with democratic political parties,” Yakubu said.
The INEC Chairman also reiterated the need for urgent electoral reforms, revealing that the commission is working with the National Assembly to review key aspects of the electoral process.
He challenged political actors to push for legislative amendments that would strengthen election transparency and accountability.
“We recognise that electoral reforms are not the sole responsibility of INEC or the National Assembly.
“Political parties, civil society organisations, and all well-meaning Nigerians must actively support and advocate necessary legislative amendments that will strengthen our democracy and make it more inclusive.
“I, therefore, challenge IPAC and all political actors here today to champion these reforms, advocate laws that enhance the credibility of our elections, and work collectively towards an electoral system that is fair, just, and representative.”
Acknowledging the longstanding collaboration between INEC and IPAC, Yakubu commended the council’s role in fostering dialogue between political parties and the electoral commission. However, he stressed that more work was needed to ensure that Nigeria’s democracy evolves in line with global best practices.
He concluded by urging political parties to take responsibility for the credibility of electoral outcomes, stating that the success of democracy depends on their willingness to embrace transparency, fairness, and inclusiveness in all aspects of their operations.
