The Independent National Electoral Commission has explained why cases involving electoral malpractices take so long to resolve in Nigeria. Speaking on Friday in Abuja during the commission’s quarterly media meeting, INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu pointed out that while there have been successful judicial actions following the 2019 and 2023 general elections, the prosecution of such offences remains sluggish.
Professor Yakubu noted that, unlike post-election disputes which are resolved within clearly defined timeframes by specialized tribunals, electoral offences lack statutory deadlines. This absence of a fixed timeframe means that cases do not receive the necessary priority in the judicial system, resulting in prolonged delays in trials and convictions.
He stressed that a more streamlined legal process for addressing electoral offences is essential if Nigeria is to strengthen its democracy and ensure that those responsible for electoral malpractices are held accountable.
