By Zara Maisango
In a decisive move to enhance the integrity of Nigeria's electoral process, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reiterated its call for the creation of a dedicated Electoral Offences Tribunal. This appeal was made by INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, during a consultative meeting with media executives in Abuja on February 7, 2025.
Professor Yakubu highlighted the pressing need for a specialized judicial body to expedite the prosecution of electoral offenders, noting that the current legal framework is insufficient for timely and effective adjudication. He emphasized that without such a tribunal, electoral offences often remain unpunished, thereby undermining public confidence in the democratic process.
The INEC Chairman cited the protracted legal battle involving a Returning Officer in Akwa Ibom State as a case in point. Originating from the 2019 General Election, it took nearly six years to secure a conviction at the trial court. This delay exemplifies the systemic challenges faced in prosecuting electoral offences under the current judicial system.
In collaboration with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), INEC is actively prosecuting 774 individuals accused of electoral misconduct during the 2023 General Election. While there have been successful convictions in Kebbi and Kogi States, numerous cases remain pending, further underscoring the necessity for a tribunal dedicated exclusively to electoral matters.
Professor Yakubu also highlighted successful partnerships with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in combating vote-buying, leading to convictions in Lagos, Kwara, and Gombe States. Despite these achievements, the absence of a specialized tribunal continues to impede the swift administration of justice in electoral cases.
The proposal for an Electoral Offences Tribunal is not a novel concept. It was a key recommendation of the Electoral Reform Committee chaired by former Chief Justice Mohammed Uwais in 2008. The committee advocated for the establishment of such a tribunal to address the pervasive issue of electoral malfeasance. However, this recommendation has yet to be implemented, leaving a critical gap in Nigeria's electoral jurisprudence.
The establishment of an Electoral Offences Tribunal would serve as a deterrent to potential offenders and reinforce the sanctity of the electoral process. It would ensure that cases are adjudicated within a specific jurisdiction and time frame, thereby promoting efficiency and restoring public trust in Nigeria's democracy.
As the nation prepares for upcoming elections, the urgency of this call cannot be overstated. INEC's renewed appeal seeks to galvanize legislative and judicial action to fortify the electoral system against malpractice and to uphold the principles of free, fair, and credible elections.