CDD Urges INEC to Review iRev Results Against Announced Figures
By Wisdom Tide
September 24, 2024
The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa), a pro-democracy group, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that results uploaded on the INEC Result Viewing Portal (iRev) are consistently reviewed against the announced election results. This appeal was made during a post-election press briefing on the Edo gubernatorial elections, held in Abuja on Monday by Professor Adele Jinadu, Chairman of the CDD Election Analysis Centre (EAC).
Call for INEC to Address Discrepancies
Professor Jinadu emphasized the importance of INEC taking remedial action where discrepancies between uploaded and announced results are identified. He stated, "INEC should carefully review uploads on iRev against the announced results, and where discrepancies exist, take the necessary remedial actions."
This call comes in the wake of CDD-EAC's observations during the Edo State gubernatorial elections, where inconsistencies such as blurred results, over-voting, and disparities in the result uploads were reported in Ovia North East. The organization highlighted the need for transparency and timely resolution of any controversies that might affect the credibility of the electoral process.
Commendation for Security Agencies
The CDD-EAC also commended security agencies for their efforts in arresting individuals involved in vote-buying during the election. While praising their vigilance, the CDD urged for the immediate prosecution of those apprehended. According to Professor Jinadu, a thorough and swift investigation of vote-buying incidents is necessary to ensure accountability and deter future electoral malpractices.
Voter Participation and Electoral Transparency
The CDD-EAC expressed satisfaction with the active participation of Edo State citizens in the election process. Voters were commended for their commitment to peaceful and credible elections, from casting their ballots to the collation and counting of results.
The organization further recommended that any controversy or loss of confidence regarding the election results be transparently addressed before final declarations are made. Such measures, it noted, are essential for maintaining public trust in the electoral process.
Addressing Logistical Challenges
In light of logistical challenges encountered during the Edo elections, particularly the heavy rains that affected certain parts of the state, the CDD-EAC advised INEC to work closely with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) in future elections. This collaboration, the group suggested, would help ensure adequate preparations are made to protect election materials, especially paper-based ballots, from weather-related damage.
Additionally, the CDD-EAC recommended that proper shelters, instead of open spaces, be provided at polling units to improve the voting experience and safeguard electoral materials during future elections.
Strengthening Crisis Communication
To avoid miscommunication and public misperception during critical election periods, the CDD urged INEC to activate its crisis communication apparatus. This would help ensure clear and accurate information is provided to the public, particularly during moments of electoral tension.
The group also advised that INEC publish clear guidelines regarding the relocation of designated collation centers or other electoral facilities during elections. This would help prevent confusion and ensure a smoother electoral process.
Post-Election Phase and Peaceful Resolution of Disputes
As the electoral process transitions into the post-election phase, the CDD called on all political stakeholders to uphold peace and adhere to the rule of law when resolving post-election disputes. The group stressed that all political actors must follow due process and refrain from taking actions that could disrupt the post-election environment.
The CDD also reminded INEC of its continued responsibility to remain fully responsive to its duties during this critical phase of the electoral process.
Combating Disinformation and Strengthening Fact-Checking
The issue of disinformation and information manipulation during elections was another area of concern for the CDD. The organization emphasized the importance of strengthening fact-checking initiatives to counter post-election misinformation or false narratives that may arise. It called for greater collaboration among fact-checkers, civil society, and media organizations to tackle disinformation effectively.
Promoting Voter Education and Media Literacy
In conclusion, the CDD stressed the need for continuous voter education and media literacy campaigns. These efforts, the group noted, are essential in equipping citizens with the skills to critically assess and debunk false information. By fostering a more informed and resilient electorate, the CDD believes the credibility of future elections can be better safeguarded.
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