—— Says laws and amendments, no matter how progressive, cannot deliver credible elections if institutions are not allowed to operate independently and transparently.
A Public Affairs Analyst and Secretary, Guild of Public Affairs Analysts of Nigeria, Enugu State Chapter, Dr. Chikezie Obasi, made this known on Thursday, 19th February, 2026, while speaking on a topic “Electoral Act 2026: Issues, Challenges and Prospects,” on the programme, Political Conversations on Freedom Square TV, anchored by Uchenna Cyril Anioke.
Dr. Obasi, expressed strong reservations about the ability of the new Electoral Act to restore public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process, citing persistent political interference in the conduct of elections.
He argued that while electoral reforms are necessary, legislation alone cannot address the deeper structural and institutional challenges undermining the credibility of elections in the country.
Dr. Obasi emphasized that the recurring allegations of political manipulation, undue influence by powerful actors, and lack of accountability within the system continue to erode citizens’ trust in the electoral process.
According to him, “there is always interference in elections. The incumbent has 90% control of the machineries. We see again the judiciary, it is the politicians that actually take the matters to the them. If they can comport themselves in a civilized way, most of the bastings on the judiciary wouldn’t have been there. Because we have varying ideas we tend to agree to the judges that talk to our emotions and disagree with others.”
“The issue is not just about amending laws or introducing a new Electoral Act. The real challenge lies in implementation and the political will to allow truly free and fair elections,” he said.
Dr. Obasi noted that many Nigerians remain skeptical about electoral outcomes due to what he described as entrenched political interference, particularly in the collation and declaration of results. He maintained that unless electoral institutions are strengthened and insulated from partisan pressures, public trust may remain elusive.
“The electoral Act will not restore public trust in elections. It won’t because the players are Nigerians. How can an average Nigerian handle the issues of Nigeria? Are we going to import people from the moon? The young champs that are going to be in polling units are Nigerians. If they go to places where bargaining power favours them, you may see them compromised not because the law itself wants them to compromise but because the players are Nigerians. What I think that will restore public confidence and trust in Nigeria is through the leadership that can embrace a good system. Everybody will follow, INEC cannot just be the only one to be singled out. It is a cumulative thing, I must tell you. Is something that every other aspect should be able to be in tuned with — the Judiciary, the police, the legislature, the ordinary citizens, everybody. That is the way I see it,” he stated.
He called for greater transparency, independence of electoral bodies, strict enforcement of electoral laws, and civic education to rebuild confidence in Nigeria’s democracy. He also urged political actors to prioritize national interest over personal ambition.
Dr. Obasi concluded that sustainable electoral reform must go beyond policy documents and focus on institutional integrity, accountability, and the protection of the people’s mandate at the polls.