Calling for immediate reforms in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other associated institutions, the Federal Capital Territory chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students stressed the importance of transparency and credibility in future elections.
During a national multi-stakeholder forum organized by Kimpact Development Initiative and the National Democratic Institute in Abuja, the General Secretary of NANS, FCT Joint Campus Council, Aina Oluwatomisin, highlighted the need for student involvement in electoral processes.
Oluwatomisin expressed that the recent 2023 general elections revealed areas where INEC could enhance its performance, such as the Biometric Voter Accreditation System, operational procedures, and security protocols.
Emphasizing the necessity for enforcement of existing laws and introduction of new reforms within INEC and related bodies, Oluwatomisin stated that these changes are crucial for ensuring fair and credible future elections in Nigeria.
Additionally, the NANS representative raised concerns over the unequal distribution of government relief packages, pointing out that numerous students in the Federal Capital Territory are yet to benefit from these initiatives despite their urgent needs.
During her speech, Bukola Idowu, the Executive Director of Kimpact Development Initiative, highlighted the varying viewpoints regarding the 2023 elections in Nigeria.
While some praised the elections as the best in the nation’s history, others expressed disappointment. However, there was consensus on the necessity for electoral reforms and discussions on how to engage the youth in the process.
Idowu emphasized the importance of incorporating technology, particularly electronic voting systems, to improve transparency and efficacy in elections. Ensuring election security was also identified as a critical factor in the reform agenda.