INEC Renews Call for Electoral Offences Tribunal

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reiterated its call for the establishment of an electoral offences tribunal to ensure the swift prosecution of electoral offenders. Speaking at a quarterly consultative meeting with media executives in Abuja, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, emphasized the need for judicial and legislative reforms to address challenges in prosecuting electoral crimes. He cited the recent conviction of a returning officer in Akwa Ibom—a case that took nearly six years to conclude—as an example of the delays in the current system. Yakubu noted that 774 electoral offenders from the 2023 general elections are currently being prosecuted, with successful convictions recorded in Kogi, Kebbi, Lagos, Kwara, and Gombe States. However, he stressed that the lack of dedicated courts hinders the timely resolution of cases, as electoral offences are often overshadowed by other legal matters. He urged the media and stakeholders to advocate for the creation of the tribunal, which would have a specific jurisdiction and timeframe for handling electoral offences. Yakubu also highlighted the increasing frequency of by-elections, citing recent vacancies in the National and State Assemblies due to death or absenteeism. He called for media support in the upcoming Anambra governorship and FCT Area Council elections, pledging that INEC will continue improving electoral processes, as seen in the Ondo governorship election. Meanwhile, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) President, Alhassan Yahaya, backed INEC’s call for a special electoral tribunal and urged the National Assembly to take action. He also emphasized the need to reduce election costs and assured continued media support for credible elections.