Debate Intensifies Over Proposal for Single-Day Elections in Nigeria

Political parties and key stakeholders are sharply divided over a proposal to conduct all general elections on the same day. Supporters argue that a single-day poll would cut costs, reduce electoral fatigue, and minimize the risks of post-election violence that often arise when results are staggered.

According to proponents, merging presidential, gubernatorial, and legislative elections into one day would also improve voter turnout, as citizens would only need to mobilize once rather than making multiple trips to polling units. They insist that the model could strengthen transparency and ensure a level playing field.

However, critics caution that the idea may overwhelm both the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the electorate. They warn that managing logistics, security, and result collation for millions of ballots on a single day could create confusion and compromise the credibility of the process.

Civil society groups have called for wider consultations, emphasizing that any decision must consider Nigeria’s unique challenges with infrastructure, voter education, and security. The debate, they say, reflects broader concerns about reforming the electoral process to build public trust and improve democratic outcomes.

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