INEC, Credible Elections, and the Future of Nigeria

 INEC, Credible Elections, and the Future of Nigeria

By Dr. Akinlooye Sarafadeen Olatunde

The destiny of Nigeria as a nation rests significantly on the efficiency, impartiality, and genuineness of its electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). In every democracy, elections are the lifeblood of governance, and when they are tainted by favouritism, bias, or financial inducement, the very foundation of justice and development is compromised. For Nigeria, already burdened with decades of underdevelopment despite her abundant human and natural resources, credible elections are not just desirable—they are indispensable.

As we approach the 2026 Osun State gubernatorial elections and the 2027 general elections, the role of INEC becomes even more crucial. The Commission must rise above every form of manipulation, inducement, or pressure from political actors and demonstrate unwavering commitment to justice and equity. Elections must not be avenues for rewarding unfit candidates, but a sacred platform where the collective voice of the people translates into credible leadership. Anything short of free and fair elections will only entrench poverty, insecurity, and national stagnation.

INEC must therefore recognise that this is a defining moment in Nigeria’s political history. By conducting free, fair, and transparent elections, the Commission has the power to set the nation on the path of economic progress, infrastructural growth, and social development. A compromised election, on the other hand, will further deepen despair, distrust, and disillusionment among the populace. The responsibility lies heavily on INEC’s shoulders, and the stakes are too high for failure.

Security oppratives must also be up and doing and make the nation proud during the elections in terms of securing the votes and making results a reflections of electorates wishes.

At the same time, the electorate has a sacred duty. Nigeria’s future will not be saved if citizens continue to trade their votes for paltry sums of money, food items, or empty promises. Selling one’s vote is not just an act of personal compromise; it is a betrayal of future generations who deserve better. The buttered experiences of hardship, hunger, and insecurity are not natural destinies—they are the fruits of poor leadership sustained by electoral malpractice and voter complicity.

It is enough. Nigerians must now vote not for immediate bribes, but for credibility, competence, and character. Every ballot paper must be cast with the vision of building a nation where children can dream, where citizens feel safe, where the economy thrives, and where social services are not luxuries but rights.

INEC must uphold its sacred mandate. Politicians must respect the rules of the game. And the people must reject the temptation of temporary gains. Only then can Nigeria truly rise as the giant of Africa and a land of abundance where democracy delivers its promises.