Forum seeks INEC’s exclusion from election litigations

The Independent National Electoral Commission’s involvement in the post election process as respondent has been termed as being at odds against the loser of an election.

This was the submission of the keynote speaker at a citizen’s led engagement on judicial accountability in post election justice delivery in Nigeria.

Credible, free and fair elections form integral building blocks for a thriving democracy.

The capacity of citizens in terms of knowledge about electoral processes and the electoral litigation processes, is a critical tool for holding the government accountable to ensure post election justice.

This has informed this gathering aimed towards increasing citizens consciousness about the importance of a transparent judiciary.

It will also result in increased civic consciousness, participation, and engagement in electoral adjudication processes thereby promoting mobilization and citizens’ actions.

The involvement of INEC as part of election adjudication is termed by speakers at a gathering as being disadvantageous to the loser.

The recommendation is for INEC to cease being a party in election litigation and to maintain its neutrality or be a party with the burden of proof being placed on them.

A jury approach to judicial procedure to determine election petition was recommended for adoption, to ease the burden on judges and also give a citizens approach in the case.