The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged the National Assembly to introduce stricter laws that prohibit politicians from carrying large sums of money at polling units. The electoral body believes this measure will help curb vote-buying and other electoral malpractices that undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking at a consultative meeting in Abuja on Friday, INEC’s Director of Litigation and Prosecution, Tanimu Muhammed (SAN), described vote-buying as a serious challenge to free and fair elections in the country. He explained that politicians often claim they need cash on election day for party agent payments and logistics, but this has led to widespread voter inducement.
“Vote-buying remains one of the biggest threats to credible elections in Nigeria. We need legislation that not only criminalizes this practice but also puts preventive measures in place,” Muhammed said.
To address the issue, INEC proposed a cash limit of ₦50,000 for individuals within polling areas. This restriction, according to the commission, would help security agencies easily detect and prevent electoral fraud.
Call for Electoral Offenses Commission
Beyond banning large cash at polling units, INEC reiterated its long-standing demand for an Electoral Offenses Commission. The commission argues that while it can prosecute electoral offenders, it lacks the necessary capacity to handle cases effectively.
“INEC is doing its best to handle prosecutions, but we need a dedicated institution with the legal authority and resources to investigate and prosecute electoral crimes comprehensively,” Muhammed added.
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Security Agencies and Logistical Challenges
Security agencies present at the meeting expressed their commitment to ensuring free and fair elections but admitted facing logistical and coordination difficulties, especially in remote areas.
Commissioner of Police in charge of Election Planning and Evaluation, Abayomi Shogunle, who represented the Inspector General of Police, highlighted these challenges.
“We face major logistical challenges, from deploying officers to remote areas to ensuring real-time communication. These issues need to be addressed if we are to effectively enforce electoral laws,” Shogunle said.
Despite these challenges, security agencies reassured Nigerians that they would remain neutral and professional in carrying out their election duties.
Lawmakers Promise Electoral Reforms
Hon. Adebayo Balogun, Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, announced plans to introduce a 2025 Electoral Act to replace the current 2022 version. He acknowledged that the last general elections revealed gaps in the existing law that need to be addressed.
“The 2022 Electoral Act was a significant step forward, but its implementation in the last general elections showed areas that need improvement. We are committed to strengthening our electoral laws to reflect the realities of our democracy,” Balogun said.
He emphasized the need for greater awareness among political parties, INEC officials, and civil society organizations on the dangers of vote-buying and other electoral offenses.
“The Nigerian people deserve an electoral process they can trust. We must ensure that our laws are not just strong on paper but are also effectively enforced,” he added.
Senate Chairman on Electoral Matters, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, echoed Balogun’s sentiments, stating that while the 2022 Electoral Act was initially seen as comprehensive, its implementation revealed loopholes that must be closed.
“This meeting is a step towards strengthening our electoral system. The reforms we propose must reflect lessons learned from past elections and ensure that our democracy continues to evolve positively,” Alli said.