Nigeria: Edo & Ondo States to hold governorship elections

Nigeria's election umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has announced that preparations are underway for the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States. In a recent interview on CNBC Africa, political analyst Ken Okulu-Boh provided insights on the election process and the challenges faced amidst the current political climate and the COVID-19 pandemic. With tensions escalating in the lead-up to the elections, there are concerns about the need for a free and fair electoral process in the midst of external intervention from foreign embassies. One of the key themes discussed in the interview was the importance of security measures to protect voters and ensure the credibility of the electoral process. Okulu-Boh highlighted the role of the Nigerian police force in safeguarding the voting process and the need for stringent measures to punish electoral offenders. The involvement of foreign embassies, such as the United States and the U.K., in monitoring Nigerian elections underscores the significance of ensuring transparency and accountability in the democratic process. As Nigeria navigates through the challenges of holding elections during a global pandemic, concerns have been raised about adherence to COVID-19 protocols. INEC has introduced new measures to tackle the spread of the virus, including limiting the number of voters at polling units and deploying security personnel to enforce safety guidelines. Despite the logistical challenges posed by the pandemic, Okulu-Boh expressed confidence in the implementation of these protocols and emphasized the need for a successful test case for future elections. The conversation also delved into the potential impact of safety concerns on the election outcomes and the possibility of court cases arising from disenfranchisement. Okulu-Boh acknowledged the history of electoral disputes in Nigerian politics but stressed the importance of upholding free and fair elections to reduce conflicts and legal challenges. The integration of safety protocols into the electoral process underscores the evolving nature of election monitoring and the need for proactive measures to address any discrepancies. Looking ahead, the prospect of e-balloting presents a new frontier in modernizing Nigeria's electoral system. With plans for e-balloting set for implementation in 2021, there are concerns about the readiness of the general populace to adopt this technology. Okulu-Boh highlighted the challenges of electricity supply in rural areas and the need for infrastructure support to facilitate e-balloting. Despite the hurdles, he emphasized the potential benefits of e-balloting in curbing electoral fraud and enhancing transparency in future elections. In conclusion, the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States represent a critical juncture for Nigeria's democratic process. As the nation grapples with the complexities of conducting elections amidst a pandemic and growing political tensions, the importance of upholding democratic values and ensuring a level playing field for all candidates remains paramount. With a focus on security, transparency, and technological innovation, Nigeria stands at a crossroads in shaping its electoral future.