The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a unequivocal directive to Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and election observers who have not yet submitted their reports, stressing that failure to comply may lead to non-accreditation for forthcoming polls.
The firm admonition was conveyed by the Chairman of INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who underscored the obligatory nature of these reports during the inaugural quarterly consultative session.
Professor Mahmood reiterated the commission’s steadfast stance on the imperative of receiving comprehensive reports from CSOs and election observers to augment transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Expressing apprehension over instances of contradictory reports from disparate entities, the INEC Chairman illuminated the adverse ramifications such disparities can entail, culminating in resource wastage and eroding the credibility of the electoral mechanism.
He implored CSOs and election observers to adhere to the prescribed guidelines and timelines for submitting their reports, accentuating that conformity is imperative for accreditation in future electoral cycles.
Accentuating the pivotal role of CSOs and election observers in fostering unfettered, equitable, and trustworthy elections, Professor Mahmood underscored the imperative of their proactive involvement and collaboration with INEC.
He advocated for synergy between INEC and CSOs to tackle impediments and enhance the electoral process, ensuring that forthcoming elections are conducted with utmost openness and rectitude.
The ultimatum articulated by INEC serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of accountability and transparency in the electoral process, elucidating the commission’s dedication to upholding democratic principles and benchmarks.
CSOs and election observers are implored to expeditiously furnish their reports to INEC to expedite the assessment of electoral operations and the implementation of requisite reforms for subsequent elections.
Non-compliance with the directive may lead to the exclusion of non-cooperative entities from engaging in electoral monitoring and observation endeavors in the future, underscoring the gravity with which INEC regards the issue.
