Former Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mike Igini, has described as “very regrettable and most unfortunate” the controversy surrounding the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urging its leadership to urgently clear doubts over alleged partisanship to restore public trust ahead of upcoming elections.
Igini stated this while featuring as a guest on Tuesday’s edition of Channels Television’s Politics Today anchored by Seun Okinbaloye. He stressed that perception plays a critical role in electoral credibility, particularly for an electoral management body.
His words: “It’s very regrettable and most unfortunate that we have found ourselves, a few months to an election, with the EMB (Electoral Management Body) under this type of controversy. Perception matters a lot, and public perception management is very key for those saddled with the responsibility to conduct elections.
“I think the commission’s leadership should address these issues appropriately to clear all doubts, because it is expected that all actions and inactions of an EMB official must be seen to be above board and exhibit the highest principles of ethical standards. That is what is required for people to have faith and confidence in the process, that the rules are observed and enforced wholly, fairly and impartially,” he said.
Igini, a former Akwa Ibom REC also faulted political parties for failing to complement INEC’s reforms, warning that provisions within the Electoral Act 2026 could undermine the credibility of the 2027 elections.
Igini also highlighted the importance of a strong opposition in sustaining democracy, warning that “there will be no hopeful future for democracy without a credible and institutionalised opposition.”
He also raised concerns about the growing role of the judiciary in determining electoral outcomes, cautioning that “perceived weaknesses” or susceptibility to political pressure could “undermine the rule of law” and threaten democratic stability.
, urging its leadership to urgently clear doubts over alleged partisanship to restore public trust ahead of upcoming elections.){kind=link}