INEC engages collation, returning officers to improve process of conducting election
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) convened a meeting on Friday with Collation and Returning Officers who served during the 2023 general elections to discuss and review the management of election results. INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu emphasized the importance of hearing the officers’ experiences and gathering their perspectives to improve result management.
Addressing the officers, Prof. Yakubu acknowledged the challenging circumstances they faced while diligently completing designated forms manually as required by law. He commended their commitment, dedication, and sacrifices to the cause of democracy. He also acknowledged the concerns raised by Nigerians regarding result management and expressed the commission’s intention to address those concerns and identify areas for improvement.
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“We need to discuss the issues that have arisen and share experiences to find a way forward. While some matters are pending litigation, we can have a broad conversation about them and more importantly, identify strengths, weaknesses, and necessary reforms for the future,” said Prof. Yakubu.
Specifically, INEC sought the officers’ perspectives on recruitment, training, and deployment procedures for collation and returning officers; logistics for transportation to and from their assigned locations; upholding the integrity of the collation and declaration process in compliance with the law, regulations, and guidelines; the role of technology in result management; security of collation and returning officers and centers; conduct of party agents and election observers during collation; and the behavior of security personnel.
Due to the large number of federal and state constituencies, all officers could not be invited to the meeting. However, it included 37 State Collation Officers for the Presidential Election who also served as Returning Officers for 28 Governorship elections. For legislative elections, Senatorial District Collation Officers from the six geopolitical zones of the country, who also acted as returning officers, were invited.
Prof. Yakubu reiterated that a comprehensive report would be prepared once the review process is concluded. Earlier, INEC engaged with other stakeholders such as Resident Electoral Commissioners, Electoral Officers, and transport union leaders who were involved in the elections.
In an interview, Prof. Kabir Bala, the Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University and the State Returning Officer for Sokoto State, expressed optimism that the review would lead to improvements in future elections.
He emphasized that the review would thoroughly examine the challenges faced during the polls and explore possible solutions. Prof. Bala further highlighted the need for a change in attitude from both politicians and the electorate for future elections to be better. He stressed that politicians should move away from the “I must win at all costs” mentality and instead prioritize serving the people. He also urged voters to vote based on conscience and choose the best candidate rather than being swayed by selfish interests.
“Improving our elections requires a holistic approach,” Prof. Bala stated. “We need to address the challenges we encountered and find practical solutions. But it’s equally important for politicians to adopt a more selfless approach and for voters to prioritize the long-term interests of our nation when making their choices. It’s a collective effort.”
Prof. Bala expressed confidence that the post-election review, combined with a shift in attitude, would contribute to more transparent, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria’s future.
“We have the opportunity to learn from our mistakes and make necessary improvements. By doing so, we can build a stronger democracy and foster trust among the citizens,” he concluded.
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