The European Union Support for Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EUSDGN) and the International Press Centre (IPC) have emphasized the importance of transparency and effective communication in building citizens’ trust in the electoral process. During a recent workshop in Ikogosi Ekiti, Ekiti State, focused on “Effective communication in electoral process: Communicating with empathy and expertise,” these organizations urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to prioritize timely and accurate communication in preparation for the upcoming governorship election in Ondo State on November 16, 2024. This workshop aimed to equip INEC staff with the necessary communication skills to promote a more trustworthy electoral environment.
The Executive Director of IPC, Lanre Arogundade, highlighted the critical role clear and transparent communication plays in fostering trust between the electorate and INEC. He noted that a lack of trust could hinder the acceptability of election outcomes, which is directly linked to how well INEC conveys messages to the public. Arogundade observed that many citizens harbor distrust towards INEC, which underscores the need for the commission to proactively engage with the electorate. He advised INEC to be aware of the prevailing perception crisis, affirming that rebuilding trust is crucial for the integrity of the electoral process.
In addition to recommendations for INEC, Arogundade urged political parties involved in the Ondo governorship election to abide by established rules to promote a peaceful electoral atmosphere. He emphasized that candidates and parties whose supporters engage in violent activities would be held accountable for those actions. Furthermore, he encouraged registered voters to actively participate in the electoral process, warning against complacency that could allow a minority to dictate the future government. Arogundade’s message was clear: it is essential for voters to make informed choices and resist the temptation to sell their votes, as doing so compromises their future for short-term gains.
INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ondo State, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, echoed the sentiments shared during the workshop, suggesting that improved communication skills among INEC staff would enhance public confidence in the electoral process. Babalola expressed INEC’s commitment to conducting a credible, free, fair, and inclusive governorship election where every vote counts. She indicated that the commission is actively engaged in voter education through various channels, including collaborations with civil society organizations, to mobilize and inform the electorate about the upcoming election.
Babalola also assured the public that INEC has implemented measures to ensure the integrity of the election process. She mentioned the availability of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines, which would securely upload polling unit results to the INEC election result viewing portal. This technological advancement aims to enhance transparency and accountability, which are vital for gaining public trust. The REC reiterated a strong stance against vote-buying, urging voters to recognize that selling their votes jeopardizes their future. She informed attendees that agencies tasked with monitoring and preventing vote-buying are prepared to take necessary actions against offenders during the election.
In summary, the workshop organized by EUSDGN and IPC in Ikogosi Ekiti emphasizes the significance of effective communication and transparency for the credibility of the electoral process in Nigeria. As the Ondo State governorship election approaches, the collaborative efforts of INEC, civil society organizations, and political stakeholders are essential to ensure that the election is conducted smoothly and fairly. By cultivating public trust through timely and accurate communication, addressing concerns proactively, and educating voters against the pitfalls of vote-buying, the electoral body can work towards a more informed electorate poised to participate actively in shaping their governance and future.
