How can Nigeria’s democracy be strengthened in the face of persistent challenges like electoral malpractice, fragmented political parties, and growing public dissatisfaction? With the 2027 elections on the horizon, leaders and institutions are under increasing pressure to rebuild trust and ensure credible governance. Are reforms enough, or is a more fundamental overhaul required? This issue...
How prepared is Nigeria for the next phase of electoral reforms? As the Senate prioritizes amending the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 elections, states like Ondo and Osun gear up for local government polls amidst debates over transparency and voter participation. From the Senate’s legislative focus to grassroots election preparations and political controversies, this...
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...
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...
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...
This week on The Ballot, we explore significant developments in Nigeria’s electoral landscape. INEC has addressed allegations from PDP Governors regarding the Edo and Ondo elections, reaffirming its commitment to fairness and transparency. At the same time, lawmakers behind the rejected single six-year term bill are preparing to reintroduce the proposal, with plans for broader...