Anxiety in South-South as Stakeholders Raise Alarm Over Poor Enforcement of Electoral Act

Concern is mounting across the South-South region following complaints by stakeholders that Nigeria’s Electoral Act is not being properly enforced, raising fears about the credibility of future elections.

Political actors, civil society organisations, and legal practitioners who gathered in Rivers State said the failure to punish electoral offenders is gradually weakening public confidence in the system.

Some of them warned that unless urgent steps are taken, the progress recorded in recent electoral reforms could be reversed.

“There is a serious gap between the law and its enforcement,” said a participant at the meeting. “If people break electoral laws and nothing happens, it sends the wrong message.”

Stakeholders worry over impunity

Participants expressed frustration that practices such as vote buying, intimidation, and electoral violence still occur.

They said despite clear provisions in the law, offenders are rarely prosecuted.

Attention was also drawn to the role of the , with calls for stronger action beyond conducting elections.

A legal practitioner at the forum said enforcement is key to restoring trust.

“The credibility of any election depends not just on the process but on accountability,” he said.

Fear of declining voter confidence

Some stakeholders warned that Nigerians may lose interest in voting if they believe the system is flawed.

They noted that democracy depends heavily on public trust.

Observers say the concerns reflect wider national anxiety as continues to strengthen its democratic institutions.

Call for urgent reforms

Participants called for the establishment of an independent body to prosecute electoral offences.

They argued that such a move would help reduce political interference.

They also urged authorities to demonstrate political will.

According to them, enforcing the law fairly would help rebuild confidence.

As preparations continue for future elections, many Nigerians say what matters most is not just the existence of the Electoral Act, but whether it will be enforced.