What does it take to lead effectively in Nigeria’s political landscape? Can electoral reforms and accountability truly reshape the country’s governance? As the nation braces for another round of elections and political shifts, critical questions emerge about leadership, the role of the judiciary, and the need for systemic change. In this issue, we spotlight...
Welcome to the first edition of Series 2, where we explore the critical stories shaping Nigeria’s political landscape. This issue features Samson Itodo’s reflections on the 2024 elections, Lagos APC’s commitment to inclusive council polls, and the broader events defining Nigeria’s democratic evolution. We also examine efforts to promote gender equity in governance, address electoral...
The year 2024 marked 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria. The 2024 electoral calendar, featuring four types of national and state elections tested public confidence in the electoral process and the commitment of democratic institutions and political actors to electoral integrity. At the federal level, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducted two...
As the year draws to a close, we reflect on Nigeria’s evolving political landscape—marked by efforts to strengthen electoral processes, promote inclusivity, and foster unity. From the arrest of a wanted suspect in election violence to the Osun and Ondo States’ bold preparations for local government elections, there is progress to consider. This 32nd and...
In this issue, we explore Yiaga Africa’s latest recommendations for the 2024 Ghana elections, advocating for the integration of artificial intelligence and digital tools to enhance transparency and resolve disputes. We also focus on urgent electoral reforms in Nigeria, with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Center (PLAC) urging President Bola Tinubu to overhaul the Independent...
Introduction On December 7, 2024, Ghana conducted its ninth presidential and parliamentary elections since returning to multiparty democracy in 1992. A total of 18.7 million registered voters were expected to vote across 40,648 polling stations in 276 constituencies spanning the country’s 16 regions. Fifteen political parties presented candidates for the presidential and parliamentary elections however...
As 2024 concludes, Nigeria’s electoral process stands at a pivotal moment. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has proposed a shift in the requirements for voting, suggesting that the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) should no longer be the sole criterion for voter participation. This marks a significant step toward a more inclusive and accessible electoral...
The Ondo State governorship election has since been concluded, and a winner has been declared. However, election stakeholders are still analysing the election with emphasis on the performance of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the electoral umpire and the level of citizen participation in the election. This is why we organised a post-election...
The civil society election observation missions from East and West Africa congratulate the people of Ghana on the generally successful conduct of the presidential and legislative elections on December 7, 2024. At a time in the region when elections and political transitions have been a major source of instability and tension, Ghana’s election provides a...
This week’s edition of The Ballot provides insightful updates on key political events shaping the democratic landscape across Africa and Nigeria. Yiaga Africa has deployed a 12-member mission to observe Ghana’s upcoming presidential election, while in Nigeria, delays in Ondo State’s local government elections and concerns over the ruling party’s dominance in local elections have...
