INEC Under Pressure: SERAP Advocates For Secure Voting Rights In Nigeria

SERAP has also called upon the INEC Chairman to champion constitutional and legal amendments that…CONTINUE READING

include clear mandatory provisions for internet-based voter registration and the adoption of modern technology in processes such as casting and counting votes, voter registration, and result reporting.

This information was relayed in a letter dated October 28, 2023, and signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare.

SERAP emphasized the importance of explicitly acknowledging the right to vote securely, believing that such recognition would enhance the practice of representative democracy in Nigeria.

The organization pointed out that resistance from politicians to modernize the country’s electoral legal framework, making the use of technology mandatory, contradicts Nigerians’ rights to effective participation in their governance.

In a section of the letter, SERAP expressed, “Democracy functions most effectively when all individuals participate.

Legally binding rights to vote are fundamental to any democratic society. The right to vote securely is too crucial to be subject to the whims of politicians.”

SERAP noted declining confidence in the electoral process and growing concerns among Nigerians about its credibility and integrity.

The organization highlighted that Nigerian politicians lack sufficient incentives to pursue genuine constitutional and legal reforms that would enhance citizens’ participation in the electoral process and in the mechanisms of government.

INEC, as per its constitutional and statutory obligations, is responsible for promoting and advancing eligible Nigerians’ right to vote securely, a right recognized internationally as part of political participation.

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