OBOREWVORI, DAFINONE, OKUNBOR, OTHERS CALL FOR CREDIBLE ELECTIONS

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Senator Ede Dafinone, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, and other political figures have called for credible elections, stressing the importance of a transparent and trustworthy electoral process in Nigeria.

Their call highlights the need for elections that reflect the genuine choices of voters and strengthen public confidence in the country’s democratic system.

Credible elections are essential to democracy because they allow citizens to choose their leaders freely and hold elected officials accountable. When voters believe that election results accurately reflect their decisions, confidence in government and democratic institutions can improve.

However, concerns about electoral malpractice, vote buying, violence and disputes over election results have continued to shape conversations about Nigeria’s political system. These challenges can discourage participation and weaken public trust in the electoral process.

The call by Oborevwori, Dafinone and other leaders places renewed attention on the responsibilities of political parties, electoral officials, security agencies and voters in ensuring peaceful and transparent elections.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) plays a central role in organising federal and state elections. Its responsibilities include voter registration, conducting elections, announcing results and ensuring that electoral procedures comply with the law.

For elections to be widely accepted as credible, electoral officials must act impartially, political parties must respect the rules and security agencies must protect voters without favouring any candidate. Candidates and their supporters must also avoid intimidation, violence and actions that could undermine the process.

Voters have an equally important role to play. Participating peacefully, rejecting vote buying and making informed choices can help strengthen democratic accountability.

Beyond election day, credible elections also depend on effective institutions, transparent procedures and a willingness by political actors to resolve disputes through lawful channels.

For Nigerians, the issue goes beyond choosing leaders. It concerns whether their votes count, whether elected officials genuinely represent their interests and whether public institutions can be trusted to uphold democratic principles.

As calls for credible elections continue, the focus will remain on turning these expectations into practical action that protects voters’ rights and strengthens Nigeria’s democracy.