April 17, 2003
Good Start to the Elections?
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Last weekend, millions of Nigerians trooped out to cast their votes in elections to the National Assembly. Reports indicate a few incidents of electoral malpractices and logistical inadequacies. In some areas, voters cards were snatched by political party supporters, names were missing from the voters register and pockets of violence witnessed.
On the whole however, it would appear that these incidents are not of sufficient significance as to challenge the credibility of the National Assembly elections.
Nigerians had feared that the elections will be filled with huge uncertainties and possible collapse of law and order, given our experience with civilian to civilian transition and elections. Fortunately, these negative tendencies were minimized and controlled in the events of the last weekend.
It is however too early to celebrate. Crucial elections into the Governorship and Presidency, will take place in the next few days. INEC has itself identified a few hot spots and had itself manifested a few lapses in the conduct of the National Assembly elections. It will be important that these fears do not manifest in Saturdays’ elections.
Nigerians have the responsibility to join hands to ensure the continued credibility of the electoral process in this country by being vigilant at the polls. While there may be local and international observers keeping an eye on the elections, it is the responsibility of Nigerian citizens to ensure that their votes are protected.
For candidates who have participated in the elections, they need to understand that in every political contest, there can only be one winner. Candidates who feel that they have lost unfairly, should pursue their grievances within the legal processes outlined under the electoral rules.
INEC and the election petition bodies have been given the responsibility to address election complaints. Losing candidates and their supporters are encouraged to utilise these bodies.
Nigeria will be making a huge political and historical statement with the success of the 2003 elections. Of course, the logistical failings and irregularities experienced in the elections should form lessons for the improvement and conduct of future elections.
It is important that Nigeria overcomes the experiences of the past where extra/unconstitutional means is canvassed as a tool for resolving election failings.
Hopefully, democracy is coming of age in Nigeria!
Copyright© 2005 Constitutional Rights Project (CRP). All rights reserved.
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