Despite concerning evidence of democratic backsliding in the West African region, there remains a strong and growing desire among citizens for representative and accountable governance. The key to addressing this challenge lies in electing competent representatives who are both accountable and responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people, ultimately fostering societal progress and...
You’d think that with the continuous work that Yiaga Africa engages in, we’d be concentrating on what’s in front of us. Yet, we are still mulling over the Reflection Conference on Democratic Elections in West Africa. Not at all! The conference was nothing short of a game-changer! Over two days, Yiaga Africa, with support from...
Protocols I thank YIAGA Africa for inviting me to this introspection session aptly termed Reflection Conference on recent elections in West Africa I commend Mr. Samson Itodo, the executive director, and other bright young Nigerians who are behind Yiaga Africa for their commitment towards promoting democracy, good governance, and credible elections on the continent. The...
This week’s on The Ballot, suspension of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and House of Assembly members is sparking controversy. Yiaga Africa has strongly condemned the actions, stating that the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of democratically elected officials are unconstitutional. Civil society organizations have also raised their voices, calling the...
This week’s edition of The Ballot brings you the latest developments in Nigeria’s political scene. A significant bill, sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua of Katsina Central, has passed its second reading in the Senate, proposing early voting for essential workers, such as election officials, security personnel, journalists, and observers, potentially addressing issues of voter...
This is a bill for an act to amend the Electoral Act No.13 2022, to provide for early voting at elections, including criteria for eligibility, procedure at the elections, and for related matters. The bill, sponsored by Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, senator representing Katsina. Download the bill
Location: Abuja, Nigeria Application Deadline: March 31, 2025 Type of Contract: Part-time Duration of Initial Contract: 12 months Yiaga Africa is a non-profit civic hub of change-makers committed to promoting democratic governance, human rights and civic engagement. With its operational base in Abuja, Nigeria, Yiaga Africa focuses on in-depth research, critically analysing critical democratic and governance issues, crafting practical...
With the 2027 elections approaching, Nigeria’s electoral system is once again under scrutiny. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed reports of an imminent resumption of voter registration, clarifying that no date has been set. Meanwhile, a bill seeking to strip INEC of its role in political party regulation has passed its second reading...
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, key issues surrounding electoral integrity, voter participation, and governance continue to dominate discussions. Former President Goodluck Jonathan has compared Nigeria’s electoral process unfavorably to those of Ghana, Senegal, and Liberia, raising concerns about the credibility of elections in the country. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has nullified Rivers’ local...
With ongoing by-elections, controversial rulings on local government polls, and fierce debates over legislative leadership, the stakes for Nigeria’s democracy continue to heighten. As the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) prepares for by-elections amid mounting scrutiny from lawmakers, the Osun State government faces opposition from federal authorities as it presses ahead with elections. This clash...
