Our current electoral process cannot produce credible leaders — Jega

Jega picks issues with the nation’s electoral process, says improvement is necessary.

It is still an election year with Kogi and Bayelsa gubernatorial elections next on the list. However, questions surrounding the credibility of the nation’s electoral processes never gets old especially during election seasons. And former INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega thinks the country will continue to struggle unless the process of electing political office holders becomes credible.

Jega who spearheaded the nation’s electoral body during the Jonathan era, and under whose leadership president Muhammadu Buhari edged out Jonathan in 2015’s controversial presidential election, said that improving the integrity of elections is key to democratic development of any nation.

Jega made the statement in Ibadan on Thursday while delivering a lecture to mark the 71st Foundation Day and Convocation of the University of Ibadan.

He said, “It is generally recognised that fortifying democracy is vital to sustainable development, but what is not as widely acknowledged is that improving the integrity of elections is key to democratic development.

“Sustainable electoral process with requite integrity is the panacea for democratic development in Nigeria and in all African countries struggling with the challenges of democratisation.

“The Nigerian electoral process has historically been flawed and repleted with profound challenges in all three key phases of electoral administration pre-election, election and post-election phases.

The former INEC boss therefore, called for more collaboration by way of research, advocacy, training and mentoring of all actors involved, particularly in inventing in-house election-related equipment and technologies.

Jega also highlighted the need to improve on areas of legal and regulatory framework for elections, utilisation of technology, inclusiveness, transparency, accountability and competitiveness.

He added that nothing supercedes citizens’ trust and confidence in the electoral process.

He said, “It is quite possible to bring about a thriving democracy in Nigeria in spite of evident challenges.

“It would only require a more serious and purposeful engagement with and in the electoral process by all the key stakeholders.

“To ensure that it brings the desired quality representation and elected public office holders who are responsible and responsive to the needs and aspirations of the citizens.

“And that would catalyse and nurture good democratic governance.”