The MAP Development Initiative (MAPDI), serving as the Southwest partner of the Youth Political Participation (YPP) Electoral Reform Consortium, has joined other youth organizations across the country to mark the National Day of Action on Youth-Led Electoral Reforms.
The consortium, supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), is calling on lawmakers to pass three crucial reforms that will enhance the transparency and credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process.
The proposed reforms include a transparent, merit-based process for appointing the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), conclusion of all pre-election cases before election day, and establishment of an Electoral Offences Commission to investigate and prosecute electoral offences.
According to Mayowa Adeniran, Executive Director of MAPDI, these reforms are essential to address long-standing public concerns and promote democratic accountability.
The National Assembly is set to vote on these constitutional and electoral reforms, which have already advanced through the review process. The outcome will significantly impact the credibility of elections, independence of institutions, and public confidence in electoral outcomes.
MAPDI, along with other youth organizations, believes that these reforms will not only strengthen transparency but also reduce tension around elections and improve the credibility of outcomes.
They are urging Nigerians, civil society organizations, journalists, and community influencers to amplify their demands as the votes approach.
To build a unified voice around these priorities, MAPDI will host a multi-stakeholder Town Hall on Electoral Reform next Thursday in Osogbo, Osun State, bringing together State House of Assembly representatives, youth leaders, and policy advocates.
The Executive Director of MAPDI, Mayowa Adeniran, emphasized that the future of electoral accountability and public trust depends on the decisions made at this moment, urging lawmakers to vote in favor of these youth-driven priorities.
