By Comr. Muhammad Shuaibu Daabu(Katakpa).
As a concerned Nigerian, I have taken time to reflect deeply on one critical aspect of our democracy: the issue of justice in our elections. It is my considered opinion that justice in the electoral process is difficult to achieve when the President of the country is the one responsible for appointing the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
INEC, by name and function, is expected to be an independent body. However, when the head of such a body is selected by the same individual who stands to gain politically from elections, the appearance of neutrality is called into question. This is not to say that every INEC Chairman appointed by a President will be biased. Rather, the concern is that the process of appointment itself may compromise public confidence in the institution’s independence.
In most cases, those who are appointed to key positions tend to have ties, direct or indirect, to the political party in power. While they may be professionals and may strive to uphold fairness, human nature often compels loyalty to those who offer opportunities. This is where the popular saying comes to mind: it is difficult to bite the finger that feeds you. Whether this loyalty is intentional or subconscious, the risk it poses to impartiality should not be ignored.
Over the years, Nigerians have witnessed elections followed by disputes, allegations of irregularities, voter intimidation, and court battles that drag on for months. The recurring pattern points to a deeper issue within the system. If the public perceives that the process is not transparent or truly independent, then trust in democracy is gradually eroded.
To improve the credibility of elections, it may be time to rethink how top electoral officials are appointed. The process should involve broader consultation and contributions from multiple sectors, such as the judiciary, civil society groups, and possibly representatives of all major political parties. One idea worth serious consideration is a bill that empowers citizens or an electoral council made up of credible, non-partisan figures to choose the INEC Chairman. This would increase public trust and reduce the perception of executive interference.
This is not about blaming any individual or political party. It is about building stronger institutions that can stand above politics. Justice in elections is not achieved by the mere conduct of voting, but by ensuring that every stage of the process, from preparation to declaration of results, is fair, transparent, and credible.
Nigeria’s democracy is still evolving. The more we identify and correct the weaknesses in our systems, the better our future elections will become. My view may not be the final word, but it is a call to action for those who care about fairness and justice in our political process.
In the same spirit of strengthening democracy, the formation of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) by a coalition of opposition parties seeking INEC registration presents a timely development. Nigeria’s multiparty democracy allows room for new platforms, and this initiative may offer a fresh alternative for voters in the 2027 elections. However, for ADA to move from intention to impact, it must go beyond rhetoric and demonstrate seriousness in policy proposals, internal unity, and grassroots engagement.
There is no denying that it will be difficult for a new party like ADA to defeat the well-established political giants in the country. However, that difficulty does not mean impossibility. Many Nigerians, particularly the youth, are increasingly disillusioned with traditional parties. This discontent could become a major source of support for any new platform that promises real change.
Moreover, with the growing influence of technology and social media, a party like ADA can bridge the gap between leadership and the electorate more effectively than in the past. If the party builds structures at the local level, maintains discipline, and speaks to real issues such as job creation, education, security, and governance, it can create a strong presence across the country.
The strength of a democracy is measured not just by how many people vote, but by how fair the process is and how meaningful the choices are. It is time to ensure that Nigerians are presented with real, credible alternatives. Reforming the structure of INEC’s leadership appointment and supporting democratic competition through new parties are two steps in that direction.
The road to change may be long, but it is not beyond reach. What is required is political courage, civic responsibility, and the will to insist on fairness at every stage of the process.
