By: Nwakaji Martins
The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Alhaji Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, has proposed the establishment of an autonomous body to appoint the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), national commissioners, and resident electoral commissioners. He made this suggestion during the public launch of the book, “Electoral Management Bodies in Nigeria since 1958,” hosted by the Electoral Hub in Abuja.
Dantalle emphasized the importance of transferring the authority to appoint these officials from the President to a neutral entity, subject to approval by the Senate. He argued that it is inappropriate for the President, who is involved in the electoral process, to select the referee. He further stated that elections are fundamental to democracy and the essence of the electoral system, highlighting that democracy cannot exist without elections.
“Given that elections serve as the lifeblood of any democratic system and the ballot is considered sacred as power emanates from the people for a seamless political transition, the necessity for an impartial, non-partisan, independent, unbiased, and fair electoral management body to oversee free, fair, credible, transparent, inclusive, and peaceful elections that enhance the democratic process cannot be overstated. The credibility, integrity, and acceptance of elections are closely linked to the expertise, capacity, and competence of the electoral body conducting them,” he remarked.
Recognizing the vital role of political parties in strengthening and enhancing democracy, creating a conducive environment for successful elections, political stability, and the overall welfare of Nigerians, the IPAC, as the umbrella organization of all registered political parties in Nigeria, pledges to collaborate with the Independent National Electoral Commission and other stakeholders in promoting our constitutional governance.
He echoed the recent statement by the INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, regarding elections conducted by the State Independent Electoral Commissions, characterizing them as mere coronations of candidates from the ruling political parties. Dantalle concurred with IPAC’s stance that the elections conducted by the SIECs were a travesty of the nation’s democratic values. In this vein, he disclosed that the Council has called for the abolition of the State Independent Electoral Commissions, which have hindered democracy at the grassroots level. He stressed the importance of encouraging citizens to actively engage in local politics, ensuring free, fair, and credible Local Government elections.
Dantalle, who also serves as the National Chairman of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), asserted that IPAC’s call for Local Government autonomy is aimed at enhancing the independence of INEC to effectively carry out its mandate and ensure credible electoral processes. “With Nigeria having enjoyed 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, it is imperative for all stakeholders to work together in constructing a robust, united, progressive, equitable, and honorable democratic society,” he stated.
He revealed that IPAC has been in talks with political party leaders on the necessity of upholding internal democracy and adhering strictly to their parties’ constitutions, particularly in candidate selection, leadership changes, and accountability. “We must exhibit exemplary, transparent, and credible leadership in the administration of political parties, and hold elected officials accountable if they veer off course from their party’s manifesto. It is time to cleanse our political system,”he concluded.
