Political activist and civil society leader Usman Bugaje has sharply criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), claiming the agency has lost public trust in carrying out its duties.
Speaking on Monday in an interview with Arise Television, Bugaje warned that INEC’s credibility is crucial for the stability of Nigeria. “When a key institution like INEC fails, it doesn’t just erode confidence in the commission—it undermines democracy itself,” he said, stressing the risks of public disillusionment with the electoral process.
Bugaje also highlighted pending legislative reforms that could improve INEC’s operations. He noted that a proposal, which late President Muhammadu Buhari declined to assent to, would have empowered the commission to use electronic tools and technology in delivering election results. He further questioned why the president continues to nominate the head of INEC, calling for reforms recommended by the late Uwais Committee that have yet to be implemented.
