A civic organisation, Kimpact Development Initiative, has renewed calls for the establishment of an Electoral Offences Commission to curb impunity and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process.
The organisation made the appeal in Abuja during a press conference held under the Youth Political Participation Electoral Reform Consortium, supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives.
KDI argued that a specialised commission is necessary to investigate and prosecute offences such as vote-buying, intimidation, violence and manipulation during elections. It said existing structures lack the independence and capacity required to tackle electoral crimes effectively.
Presenting the consortium’s position, KDI Programme Manager, Mercy Abiem, said violent disruptions and corrupt practices continue to undermine the credibility of elections, weaken public trust and distort the will of voters.
According to her, the absence of a dedicated agency has allowed offenders to act with impunity, with most cases going unpunished despite widespread evidence of wrongdoing.
She stressed that a professional and independent commission would ensure accountability, deter electoral malpractice and improve overall confidence in democratic governance.
KDI also reiterated its broader reform demands, including the conclusion of all pre-election cases before election day and the resolution of post-election petitions before inauguration. The group further called for a non-partisan process in appointing the INEC chairman, national commissioners and resident electoral commissioners.
The organisation urged members of the National Assembly to demonstrate commitment to electoral integrity by supporting youth-driven proposals currently before the legislature.
It also encouraged civil society groups, journalists and citizens to sustain advocacy efforts as lawmakers move closer to deciding the fate of the reforms.