APGA National Chairman Commends INEC on By-Elections, Calls for Sustained Electoral Credibility

Written by Nduka Anyanwu

Abuja, Nigeria —The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, has shared insightful reflections on the just-concluded by-elections held nationwide on August 16, commending the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the progress recorded in Nigeria’s electoral process.

Speaking as a guest on People, Politics, and Power, a program on Africa Independent Television (AIT), Barrister Ezeokenwa noted that INEC has made remarkable strides over the years—particularly with the deployment of technology in elections.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s electoral system has undergone tremendous transformation compared to two decades ago, citing innovations such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) which has significantly strengthened the credibility of accreditation and voting processes.

He further highlighted that provisions introduced in the Electoral Act 2022 have enhanced transparency and accountability, thereby safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.

Using the recent Anambra by-election as a case study, the APGA Chairman disclosed that BVAS functioned effectively in nearly all communities, and election materials arrived promptly at polling stations. 

He added that by the close of voting, approximately 97 percent of results had already been uploaded to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), showcasing the Commission’s capacity and commitment to credible elections.

“I have not hidden my admiration for INEC,” Ezeokenwa said. “If you look at the 2023 elections and compare them with previous ones, you will notice tremendous progress. Of course, there were some issues—particularly with result transmission—but in these off-cycle elections, INEC has demonstrated capacity.

 Once the Commission substantially complies with the Electoral Act and its own regulations, the credibility of the process is maintained. There is no perfect election anywhere in the world—not even in the United States—but what matters is substantial compliance with the law.”

Barrister Ezeokenwa, who also has extensive experience in election litigation, cautioned critics against judging INEC from “the angle of ignorance,” emphasizing that a deep understanding of electoral laws and procedures is essential before making valid assessments.

He clarified that his commendations are not driven by partisan interests. “It is not necessarily because APGA performed well in the election,” he stated. “Rather, it is because INEC adhered to the guidelines it set out, and compliance with electoral laws remains the true benchmark for credibility.”

The APGA National Chairman concluded by urging all stakeholders—including political parties, civil society organizations, and the electorate—to continue supporting measures that strengthen Nigeria’s democracy. 

He also called on INEC to sustain and build upon the technological innovations that have elevated the standards of electoral integrity in the country. 

Author 

Mr. Nduka Anyanwu, Special Adviser Media to APGA National Chairman