The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that it will no longer accredit civil society organizations (CSOs) and other bodies as observer groups if they fail to submit their previous elections observation reports.
This statement was made by INEC National Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, at the first quarterly consultative meeting with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Abuja.
Prof. Yakubu emphasized the importance of observer groups submitting their reports as a condition for eligibility to observe future elections.
He highlighted that the commission appreciates the observations and recommendations contained in these reports and has used them to drive reforms and innovations over the years.
The INEC chairman also provided updates on the upcoming Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21, 2024.
Eighteen political parties have conducted their primaries, monitored by the commission.
Eight parties have already filed their nominations. For the Ondo State governorship election, 16 political parties have expressed interest in participating, with their primaries set to commence in the next two weeks.
Prof. Yakubu encouraged CSOs to engage with political parties and observe their primaries, as this would strengthen their advocacy for inclusivity for under-represented groups such as women, youths, and Persons with Disability (PwD) in elective offices at national and state levels.
INEC's decision to deny accreditation to defaulting observer groups underscores the importance of timely submission of election observation reports.
This move is aimed at ensuring that the electoral process in Nigeria remains transparent, fair, and inclusive for all stakeholders.
