Political analyst and commentator, Bagos, has called on Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to assert its independence by cautioning President Bola Tinubu as the country prepares for the critical 2027 general elections. Speaking on September 12, 2025, Bagos emphasized the pivotal role INEC must play in ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, free from undue influence by the executive branch.
Bagos expressed concerns over the increasing perception that the electoral body has been influenced by political actors, including the presidency, which threatens Nigeria’s democratic progress. He argued that a firm stance from INEC, including clear boundaries with the presidency, is crucial to restoring public confidence in the electoral process.
Highlighting the need for neutrality, Bagos stressed that INEC’s impartiality must be evident in its interactions with political leaders, especially with the president, who wields significant power. He cautioned that failing to check the executive could lead to compromised elections, undermining the credibility of the entire democratic system.
The analyst called for INEC to adopt proactive measures, such as publicly admonishing any attempts by politicians to interfere with the electoral process or influence outcomes unlawfully. Bagos also urged civil society, the media, and other stakeholders to support the electoral commission in holding all players accountable.
With the 2027 presidential and general elections approaching, Bagos underscored that INEC’s demonstrated independence could be the defining factor in Nigeria’s democratic stability. He warned that without such checks and balances, the electoral process risks erosion of legitimacy and possible unrest.
Bagos’s call comes amid a broader national conversation on governance, transparency, and the need for institutional reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and safeguard the integrity of its electoral institutions.
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