The European Union Election Observation Mission to Nigeria has called for a reform of the nation’s electoral processes.
It has, therefore, presented 30 recommendations on electoral reform to improve future elections in the country.
The mission in the recommendations which were part of its final report on the 2019 general elections, stressed the need to strengthen the procedures for the collation of results to improve integrity and confidence in electoral outcomes.
The EU EOM final report on the 2019 elections was presented by the EU Chief Observer, Maria Arena, and her deputy, Hannah Roberts, at a press conference in Abuja on Saturday.
It concluded that the systemic failings seen in the elections, and the relatively low levels of voter participation, indicate the need for fundamental electoral reform.
Arena noted, “Such reform needs political leadership that is dedicated to the rights of Nigerian citizens, and an inclusive process of national dialogue involving state institutions, parties, civil society and the media. This needs to be urgently undertaken to allow time for debate, legislative changes and implementation well in advance of the next elections.”
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She also said the Independent National Electoral Commission should considerably strengthen its organisational and operational capacity, as well as its internal communication, noting that the inter-agency body responsible for electoral security should work more transparently and inclusively, with regular consultations with political parties and civil society.
The mission said the the seven areas of priorities for electoral reform included requirements in law for full results transparency, with data easily accessible to the public.
The EU EOM also called for introduction of a legal requirement for political parties to have a minimum representation of women among candidates, frowning at the low number of female candidates in the polls.
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