Onaiyekan Proposes Seven Reforms to Protect Nigeria’s 2027 Elections

Cardinal John Onaiyekan has warned that Nigeria’s democracy is weakened when election outcomes are settled mainly by tribunals rather than at polling units. Speaking at the All Nigeria Editors Conference in Enugu, he said the judiciary should resolve genuine disputes, not become the main arena for deciding winners. He also raised concerns about public distrust of election judgments and the influence of legal technicalities. He proposed that election petitions should be concluded before winners are sworn in, alongside a dedicated election tribunal with clear timelines. Other proposals include allowing voters to challenge results, making INEC appointments more independent, requiring a 50 per cent threshold for presidential victory, restoring trust in the judiciary and demanding stronger ethical standards from political leaders. He also urged the media to verify information and guard against AI-generated misinformation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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