Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Accusations Against INEC
- Critique of the Permanent Voter's Card
- Voter Registration Process
- Lack of Accountability
- Concerns About Political Elites
- The Rise of a Citizens’ Movement
Leadership coach and political activist, Adetokunbo Olufela Durotoye, has charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with being a significant barrier to democracy in Nigeria.
He claimed that the electoral body intentionally suppresses voter participation to safeguard the interests of the political establishment.
Durotoye made these assertions during an interview on The Exchange Podcast, which is hosted by Olufemi Soneye.
He stated that INEC has become a major frustrating collaborator with those in power, employing administrative procedures to hinder Nigerians from participating freely in elections.
Durotoye emphasized that INEC, rather than just politicians, is the greatest obstacle to democracy, arguing that the electoral system is intentionally designed to frustrate voters.
He specifically criticized the ongoing use of the Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC), contending that it is unnecessary in today's technologically advanced era.
“There is no technical justification for insisting on physical voter cards when INEC already possesses our biometrics, fingerprints, and facial data. The PVC is being utilized to restrict turnout, rather than to safeguard the vote.”
Durotoye also criticized the voter registration process, labeling it as slow, inefficient, and unwelcoming, particularly for young Nigerians eager to engage in elections.
He noted that these challenges predominantly impact non-establishment voters, whom he described as the true threat to entrenched political interests.
“The individuals being obstructed are those outside the establishment. Those are the ones they fear.”
The leadership coach further expressed concerns regarding the absence of accountability within INEC, pointing out that officials accused of electoral misconduct are seldom personally punished.
“There is a corporate shield surrounding INEC. Until individuals are prosecuted and imprisoned for compromising elections, nothing will change.”
He also highlighted the increasing dominance of political elites, warning that Nigeria is heading toward a one-party system due to widespread defections among politicians.
According to him, while political choices have become clearer, governance has deteriorated.
Durotoye cautioned that the mass defection of political elites is steering Nigeria toward a one-party system, leaving voters with fewer substantial choices and diminishing accountability.
He asserted that despite these challenges, recent elections have demystified the political elite and demonstrated that the power of the establishment is not insurmountable.
Durotoye predicted that a burgeoning citizens’ movement, fueled by previously non-voting Nigerians, would ultimately overwhelm even the most compromised systems.
“Even if government institutions may resist change, sustained civic engagement and mass participation will make it increasingly difficult to continue manipulating elections,” he stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Adetokunbo Durotoye's main criticisms of INEC?
Durotoye criticizes INEC for suppressing voter participation, using outdated voter card systems, and lacking accountability for electoral misconduct.
How does Durotoye view the role of political elites in Nigeria?
He warns that the growing dominance of political elites is pushing Nigeria towards a one-party system, limiting voters' choices and weakening accountability.
What solution does Durotoye propose for the electoral challenges in Nigeria?
Durotoye believes that a growing citizens’ movement, driven by increased civic engagement, will eventually overcome the current electoral manipulation and challenges.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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