A
abujagirl
Guest
Nigeria's presidential election which started yesterday is a long way from over as voting is yet to be concluded in some states but nonetheless, we've learnt a few vital lessons from the election.
1. INEC was not ready to hold elections on the 14 February
The Independent National Electoral Commission may claim otherwise but ground analysis on Saturday showed that February 14 would have been a disaster. Some INEC staff and voters were badly trained. Also, shortage of electoral materials was reported in some areas.
2. Deploying the army was a good thing
While soldiers did not play an active role in the election, deploying them was a good thing as it kept political thugs in check in most places. Compared to previous elections, electoral violence was at an all time low.
3. This is the tightest elections Nigeria has ever known
Nobody can confidently declare a winner. There is an element of fear on both sides of the divide. No doubt, Nigerian democracy is maturing.
4. INEC over hyped the card readers
Benefits of the card readers are still unknown but one thing is certain; the card readers delayed the process.
5. There is still a lot to do before the gubernatorial elections
INEC definitely has to step up its game before April 11. It is important to fix the lapses observed during the presidential elections.
1. INEC was not ready to hold elections on the 14 February
The Independent National Electoral Commission may claim otherwise but ground analysis on Saturday showed that February 14 would have been a disaster. Some INEC staff and voters were badly trained. Also, shortage of electoral materials was reported in some areas.
2. Deploying the army was a good thing
While soldiers did not play an active role in the election, deploying them was a good thing as it kept political thugs in check in most places. Compared to previous elections, electoral violence was at an all time low.
3. This is the tightest elections Nigeria has ever known
Nobody can confidently declare a winner. There is an element of fear on both sides of the divide. No doubt, Nigerian democracy is maturing.
4. INEC over hyped the card readers
Benefits of the card readers are still unknown but one thing is certain; the card readers delayed the process.
5. There is still a lot to do before the gubernatorial elections
INEC definitely has to step up its game before April 11. It is important to fix the lapses observed during the presidential elections.
