INEC Explains 2 AM Declaration of 2023 Presidential Poll Results

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has addressed public concerns regarding the timing of the 2023 presidential election results declaration. The results were announced at 2 AM on March 1, 2023, a decision that has generated significant debate among Nigerians. Many citizens questioned the appropriateness of announcing such crucial results in the early morning hours, prompting INEC to clarify its reasoning.

INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu explained that the decision stemmed from the need for accuracy and compliance with legal requirements. The announcement came after a lengthy process of collating results from various polling units across the country. This process involves gathering data from local governments and states before finalizing the results in Abuja.

Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, emphasized that Nigeria’s electoral framework treats the country as a single constituency during presidential elections. This means that the results must be compiled from all regions, which can take considerable time. Oyekanmi noted that the Chairman had to wait for 36 returning officers from remote areas, including Sokoto and Maiduguri, to submit their results. This meticulous process ensures that the final outcome reflects the true will of the people.

Oyekanmi further clarified that neither the Nigerian Constitution nor the Electoral Act specifies a particular time for announcing election results. This legal flexibility allows INEC to choose the timing of its announcements. He stated, “The constitution does not prescribe a specific time for declaring election results. We understand the concerns of the public, but we assure them that the commission followed the law and ensured the integrity of the process.”

The collation process is designed to uphold the accuracy of the electoral results. The INEC Chairman must personally verify the results submitted by the returning officers. If there are discrepancies, he can send the officers back for clarification. This rigorous approach aims to prevent manipulation and errors, reinforcing public trust in the electoral system.

Reflecting on previous elections, Oyekanmi pointed out that similar timing issues have occurred before. He referenced the 2015 presidential election, where results were declared around 4 AM by former INEC Chairman Professor Attahiru Jega. This historical context shows that late-night announcements are not new to Nigeria’s electoral history.

Despite INEC’s procedural justifications, the timing of the announcement has fueled ongoing discussions about electoral transparency. Critics argue that declaring results in the early hours may lead to perceptions of opacity and mistrust among the electorate. The INEC’s response indicates a need for better communication and public engagement to alleviate concerns and enhance understanding.

As Nigeria approaches future elections, including the Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21, 2024, INEC’s commitment to transparency will be under scrutiny. The commission has stated that it is implementing measures to improve the electoral process. These measures include introducing security features in result sheets to prevent tampering and ensure authenticity.

In conclusion, while INEC has clarified the reasons behind the 2 AM declaration of the 2023 presidential election results, the implications of this timing continue to resonate within public discourse. As Nigeria navigates its electoral landscape, the balance between procedural integrity and public perception remains a critical challenge. Moving forward, fostering trust and transparency will be essential in strengthening the democratic process in Nigeria.