Nigeria guber polls: Trust issues linger

Political parties in Nigeria are gearing up for the upcoming governorship elections, and there are lingering trust issues following the glitches and misconduct observed during the Presidential polls. Femi Oladehin, Partner at Argentil Capital, highlighted the challenges faced during the previous election, emphasizing the importance of restoring trust in the electoral process. The late arrival of INEC staff, logistical problems, and the failure of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System were major factors contributing to the lack of confidence in the process. Oladehin expressed concerns about the readiness of INEC to address these issues and ensure a smooth voting process in the upcoming elections. With 28 out of 36 states conducting the governorship elections, the focus is on improving the utilization of BIVAS, addressing security challenges, and enhancing logistics management. The expectation is that INEC will demonstrate improved coordination and efficiency to avoid a repeat of past shortcomings. Security remains a major concern, especially in hotspots like Lagos, where violence and electoral fraud have been prevalent. The need for a peaceful and transparent electoral process is crucial to upholding the integrity of the elections. Polling unit agents play a significant role in monitoring and ensuring the fairness of the voting process, but their effectiveness relies on robust systems and support from electoral authorities. Access to election data and the storage of voting information are critical aspects that voters will be scrutinizing in the upcoming polls. The recent postponement of the 2023 population census and the approval of the Nigeria Agenda 2050 by the Federal Executive Council indicate a shift in the government's long-term vision. However, the success of these initiatives will depend on political will, effective budgetary allocation, and a commitment to implementing necessary reforms. As Nigeria navigates through crucial electoral processes and policy decisions, the need for transparency, accountability, and fairness remains paramount in shaping the country's future.