Reactions have continued to pour in following the recent announcement by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Yakubu, about the potential inclusion of inmates in the 2027 general elections.
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Legal experts have applauded the proposal, calling it a progressive step toward honoring constitutional rights that guarantee all citizens including those in custody the right to vote. However, political analysts are raising serious concerns over the possibility of manipulation and undue influence over prisoners’ ballots.
Prof. Yakubu revealed the plan last week during a meeting with the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, at INEC’s headquarters in Abuja. He referenced an Appeal Court ruling that affirms inmates’ rights to register and vote, adding that INEC and the NCoS are in ongoing talks to define the modalities for implementation.
“These include access to voting facilities, addressing political parties’ concerns, and determining the category of inmates covered by the court ruling,” he said.
But speaking on the matter, Barrister Zurkallaini Sani Tsanyawa reaffirmed the electoral commission’s position, saying, “All Nigerian citizens have the right to vote including detainees in Nigeria correctional services, as such Prof. Yakubu’s statement on the right of prisoners to vote during any election in Nigeria is in conformity with constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended and the ruling of the Court Appeal.”
Prof. Yakubu however, called for strict measures to be put in place so the political class don’t take advantage of the new development.
“Both security agencies and INEC must put measures against corrupt politicians who may use this opportunity to rig any election,” he said.
Also, Professor Kamilu Sani Fagge from the political science department of Bayero University, Kano echoed the same sentiment AS Prof. Yakubu.
“I applaud what INEC is trying to achieve. I actually think it’s long overdue as prisoners deserve to exercise their rights duringelections. However, there is still a serious concern regarding the possibility of manipulation and rigging. For this exercise to yield positive results, the commission has to put the correct protocols in place to ensure a free and fair election. All inmates eligible to vote should be registered and a list should be made public to ensure proper monitoring. This way, the numbers cannot be inflated to favor any candidate or party.
“If this inmates voting is a thing we want to adopt, we must first of all start with a mock election. To measure the accuracy of the process as well as sight issues within the process that may arise and find solutions to it before a proper general election is held not for it to be implemented without first being tested and tried,” Prof. Yakubu argued.
The inclusion of inmates in Nigeria’s electoral process could mark a historic shift in the country’s democratic journey. However, it remains to be seen whether the outcome will be favorable or result in controversy according to Prof. Yakubu.
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