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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is seeking a clearer legal framework to allow Nigerian inmates to exercise their right to vote. This move comes after a meeting between INEC’s Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, and the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche.
Eko Hot Blog reports that while courts have previously upheld the voting rights of prisoners, especially those awaiting trial, the current Electoral Act 2022 has some ambiguity. Section 12(1)(e) of the Act restricts voter registration for individuals under “legal incapacity,” a phrase that INEC wants to clarify to ensure no one is unfairly disenfranchised.
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To address the logistical challenges, a joint technical committee has been established by INEC and NCoS. This committee will work on operational concerns, including how to register voters within correctional facilities, set up polling units, and allow political parties to campaign.
According to Nwakuche, the NCoS currently holds more than 81,000 inmates, with a significant majority awaiting trial. He stressed that these individuals should not be denied their right to participate in the democratic process.
This push for inmate voting rights is seen by many, including former senator Shehu Sani, as a significant step towards a more inclusive and just electoral system.
Sani also pointed out that the initiative could add up to 100,000 votes, but he also highlighted the need to consider the strong power dynamics among inmates that could influence the voting process.
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