CMPA demands action on voter apathy, wants all polls in one day

The Centre for Media, Policy and Advocacy (CMPA) calls for reforms in the Constitution and Electoral Act to address voter apathy and low electoral participation in Nigeria.

CMPA’s Executive Director, Dr. Suleiman Suleiman, emphasizes the need for political parties to engage citizens more effectively and for the electoral system to facilitate easier voting processes. Suleiman highlights the low voter turnout in the 2023 elections, with only 28-30 million out of 87 million registered voters participating.

‎Prof. Abubakar Umar Kari suggests policy and institutional measures, including early voting and enabling certain groups like NYSC members and security personnel to vote. Kari advocates for INEC to clean the voters register and conduct all elections in one day, while urging political parties to engage in genuine campaigns.

‎Mr. Jide Ojo from OJA Development Consult points out the high cost of elections with low voter turnout, calling for legal, administrative, and institutional reforms. Ojo recommends provisions for early voting, diaspora voting, and conducting all elections in a single day to improve inclusivity.

‎Former National Chairman of the New Nigeria people’s Party, Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali stresses the importance of political parties and stakeholders reviewing strategies to increase voter interest and participation in elections.