Study On EMBS In Nigeria Since 1958 Photobook of Honourable Chairmen Of Electoral Commissions In Nigeria

Key highlights from the presentations and discussions:

1. Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, representing the INEC chairman, emphasized the importance of credible elections and INEC’s commitment to free, fair, and transparent elections.

2. Stakeholders, including the Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters and the IPAC Chair, delivered goodwill messages praising the publications.

3. Prof. L. Adele Jinadu reviewed the publication, highlighting the need to strengthen INEC and address challenges like impunity and external influence.

4. A panel discussion featuring experts like Hajia Amina Zakari, Dr. Hussain Abdul, Mrs. Tari Oliver, and Festus Okoye discussed challenges and opportunities in election management, including gender inclusivity, logistical challenges, continuous voter registration, and the impact of civic culture on electoral effectiveness.

The research publications were publicly presented and unveiled.

To wrap up the event, reflections on “EMBs and the Future of Elections” were offered by Prof. Okechukwu Ibeanu. In his reflections, Prof. Ibeanu drew attention to the distinction between structure and agency, emphasizing the need to focus on agency and the individuals who manage elections. He noted that while structure and external influences have been widely emphasised, agency is yet to be given adequate attention. He spotlighted the ability of election managers in making and marring elections, whilst identifying knowledge, carriage, and courage as critical elements for ensuring electoral integrity. He further expressed concerns that society fails to adequately recognize and acknowledge the immense value and contributions of election administrators to the integrity of the democratic process.

The event aimed to stimulate interest and collective action towards improved electoral governance for credible elections in Nigeria.

About The Electoral Hub:

The Electoral Hub, an affiliate of the Initiative for Research, Innovation and Advocacy in Development (IRIAD), is an interdisciplinary knowledge and advocacy think-and-do-tank which seeks to provide solutions to improve the credibility and integrity of the electoral process. The Electoral Hub complements the roles and activities of various institutions, stakeholders, and drivers of the electoral process and governance. The Electoral Hub aims to strengthen electoral governance and accountability in Nigeria through research, documentation, electoral education, policy and legal influencing, and impact advocacy. We believe that the integrity of the electoral process is crucial in improving electoral governance and sustaining democracy in Nigeria. We also believe in solutions rooted in the principles of justice and equity.