“The proposal is essential to promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the electoral process.”
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is proposing major amendments to Nigeria’s electoral laws.
The commission seeks to strip the President of the power to appoint Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), proposing instead that INEC appoint “State Directors of Elections.” INEC is also pushing for electronically downloadable voter cards to replace the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
Mohammad Kuna, Special Adviser to the INEC Chairman, disclosed these proposals during a retreat with the Joint National Assembly Committee on Electoral Matters in Lagos. “The proposal is essential to promote transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the electoral process,” he said.
INEC also proposes diaspora, early, and inmate voting, the establishment of an Electoral Offences Commission, a Political Party Regulatory Agency, and special seats for women and persons with disabilities through constitutional amendments.