The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled an ambitious plan to overhaul Nigeria’s electoral system, drawing on lessons from the 2023 general elections and subsequent off-cycle polls. Central to these proposals are the introduction of diaspora voting and the gradual phasing out of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) as the sole means of voter identification.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed these sweeping reforms on Thursday during a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja. The proposed measures, aimed at addressing persistent challenges in Nigeria’s electoral process, will be presented to the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on Electoral Matters.
Yakubu stressed the need for legal clarity on result transmission, advocating a clear delineation between manual and electronic methods. He also proposed replacing PVCs with computer-generated slips or credentials downloadable from INEC’s website, a shift he believes will cut costs and curb voter card-buying practices.
“This will not only save costs but also eliminate issues around PVC collection and the diabolical practice of buying cards from voters to disenfranchise them,” Yakubu said.
The reforms also champion early and diaspora voting, enabling Nigerians living abroad and essential workers—such as security personnel and INEC staff—to participate in elections. Other recommendations include establishing an electoral offences tribunal and a separate agency to oversee the registration and regulation of political parties.
Unbundling INEC’s Mandate
The commission aims to reduce its operational burden by delegating responsibilities. Yakubu noted that creating specialised bodies would improve efficiency and accountability.
“As a matter of urgency, we also intend to develop protocols for cleaning up the voters’ register in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission and the National Population Commission,” he said.
Comprehensive Review and Stakeholder Engagement
The reforms are part of a 524-page review report documenting 142 recommendations from the 2023 electoral cycle. These cover voter management, public communication, security, logistics, and electoral legal frameworks. Of these, 86 require INEC’s direct administrative action, 48 depend on collaboration with stakeholders, and eight will necessitate legislative amendments.
INEC plans to work with civil society groups, security agencies, and other partners to strengthen voter education and combat misinformation, particularly on social media. Affirmative action to promote the inclusion of marginalised groups, including women and people with disabilities, also features prominently in the proposals.
Challenges and Opportunities
Yakubu acknowledged the challenges inherent in reforming Nigeria’s electoral system but emphasised the necessity of adapting to changing realities. “The introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) has shown the need for a more streamlined process,” he said.
The commission also pledged to enhance logistical arrangements, partnering with transport unions to ensure timely delivery of election materials.
Looking Ahead
Yakubu urged RECs to engage deeply with the recommendations and collaborate in building a more inclusive and transparent electoral process. “This is the most appropriate time to commence the implementation of these reforms,” he concluded.
As the commission prepares to present its recommendations to the National Assembly, the proposed reforms signal a significant step towards restoring public trust and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
