Samson Itodo Calls for Urgent Electoral Reform Before 2024 Elections
Samson Itodo, the Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, has called for the introduction of a new law to ensure that all electoral disputes are resolved before the swearing-in of elected officials. In an interview with Channels TV’s Politics Today, Itodo emphasized the importance of addressing electoral issues in a timely manner to avoid unnecessary distractions and prevent the bandwagon effect.
Itodo pointed out that one of the darkest aspects of the 2024 elections would be the persistent problem of vote-buying, which has tainted many previous elections. He also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take swift action in articulating his electoral reform plans.
“It is critical that the president sets out a clear electoral reform agenda,” Itodo said. “With the midterm of the general election approaching in February, the president has yet to present his plans for reform.”
He outlined four key points that need urgent attention during the electoral reform conference. First, Itodo stressed the need for the legalization and proper articulation of electronic transmission of election results, which is currently reliant on manual collation and transmission.
Although he acknowledged the Supreme Court’s stance, Itodo advocated for the legal protection of the INEC Results Viewing Portal (IReV), while ensuring that both electronic and manual processes work in tandem to serve as checks and balances, strengthening the transparency of the election process.
The third priority, according to Itodo, is the establishment of a timeline to resolve electoral disputes before the swearing-in of officials. This measure would address the disruptions caused by lingering disputes, ensuring a smoother transition of power and reducing potential political instability.
Lastly, he called for stronger support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging reforms that would enhance its efficiency and effectiveness in overseeing future elections.
