Mahmood Yakubu, the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), emphasizes that internal party democracy is crucial for credible elections.
During a public presentation in Abuja on Thursday, he discussed the book Celebrating 100 Years of Political Party Evolution in Nigeria: The Imperatives of Nigeria’s Political Stability, published by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC).
Sam Olumekun, the INEC national commissioner for election and party monitoring, represented Yakubu during the presentation.
He highlighted the necessity for political parties to operate within the legal framework outlined by the 1999 Constitution and the 2022 Electoral Act.
Furthermore, adherence to these laws ensures that political operations remain transparent and accountable within Nigeria’s democratic landscape.
“Political parties are fundamental to a democratic society and serve a unique role compared to other institutions,” he stated.
He further explained that parties aggregate social interests and provide a structure for political engagement.
As the overarching body for all registered political parties in Nigeria, IPAC has significantly fostered dialogue between parties and the commission, promoting a more inclusive electoral process.
This collaboration aims to uphold democratic principles, enhance election management, and strengthen the collective commitment to advancing democracy in Nigeria.
Their partnership has produced notable outcomes, particularly in political party registration, election monitoring, and capacity-building initiatives for political actors.
Looking ahead, Yakubu emphasized sustaining engagement among political parties and INEC.
This collaboration ensures Nigeria’s democracy evolves according to international best practices.
By fostering dialogue and transparency, both entities can strengthen their commitment to democratic values.
According to the constitution, candidates for elective offices must be sponsored by registered political parties.
These parties serve as the backbone of Nigeria’s democratic governance, providing structure, accountability, and representation for the electorate while ensuring a fair electoral process.
Having evolved over a century, political parties have become vital pillars of democracy.
Consequently, they bear the responsibility to ensure that electoral outcomes genuinely reflect the aspirations of the people, maintaining public trust and confidence in the democratic system.
Yakubu urged political parties to critically assess their operations and conduct credible primary elections.
“Internal party democracy is the bedrock of credible general elections.
Effective leadership recruitment occurs when qualified individuals are chosen through properly conducted party primaries,” he asserted.
When political parties adhere to democratic principles internally, it bolsters public trust in the electoral system and reinforces democratic governance.
Unfortunately, instances of insufficient internal democracy have led to disputes, litigation, and disruptions in the electoral process.
Thus, it is crucial for parties to commit to transparent, fair, and credible primaries.
As future elections approach, he urges all political parties to enhance their internal governance mechanisms, ensuring their processes align with their members’ wishes.
A democratic society begins with democratic political parties.
Moreover, political parties should focus on establishing strong, law-abiding institutions with clear ideological foundations rather than merely creating large entities.
Yakubu emphasized that INEC actively commits to ensuring credible, transparent, and inclusive electoral processes, which are vital for democracy.
Furthermore, he highlighted that this dedication helps build public trust and confidence in the electoral system.
He also highlighted that the commission is collaborating with the National Assembly.
This cooperation aims to organize a retreat focused on urgent reforms needed in the Electoral Act.