Former lawmaker and political activist, Usman Bugaje, has lamented that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has lost credibility, warning that the trend poses a danger to Nigeria’s democracy.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Monday, Bugaje said Nigerians no longer have confidence in the electoral body.

“I think everyone is aware that INEC has lost a lot of credibility and the institution must regain it. Otherwise, the stability of the country is going to be threatened,” he warned.

Bugaje explained that when critical institutions fail, especially one as central as INEC, the ripple effect erodes confidence not only in elections but in democracy itself.

He recalled that crucial reforms aimed at strengthening transparency were still pending, including provisions mandating INEC to fully adopt electronic tools and technology for elections.

Bugaje also criticized the current process of appointing INEC chairmen, questioning why the president retains the power to nominate the head of the commission.

“The late Uwais committee made very good recommendations, which have been blocked by those interested in manipulating INEC,” he said, urging stakeholders to push for reforms to restore credibility to the electoral process.