Jega Warns Against Rushed Adoption of E-Voting in Nigeria

Professor Attahiru Jega warns Nigeria against hastily adopting electronic voting. Citing issues like poor infrastructure and foreign dependency, he emphasizes the need for careful modernization of electoral processes. He suggests that reforms should be practical and gradual to ensure credibility in democracy.

In a recent statement, Professor Attahiru Jega, the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), voiced significant concerns about the rushed adoption of electronic voting in Nigeria. Speaking at The Platform event in Lagos, held in celebration of Democracy Day, he underscored the importance of careful consideration regarding the introduction of e-voting technology. Jega pointed out that without addressing infrastructure and capacity limitations, the effectiveness of such technology could be severely undermined.

Jega emphasized the necessity of modernizing Nigeria’s electoral processes, yet he cautioned against hastiness in implementation. “We have to understand the need to make haste slowly,” he remarked. He highlighted that while there is a strong desire to utilize technology in elections, an honest evaluation of current technological gaps is crucial.

He drew comparisons with Estonia, a country widely recognized for its use of internet voting, noting that such a model is difficult to replicate in Nigeria. Jega stated, “Estonia is a very small country with far better infrastructure. Nigeria is still struggling with internet access even in many urban centers—rural areas are worse.”

Further, Jega expressed concerns over Nigeria’s dependency on foreign suppliers for election-related equipment, pointing out that the country currently lacks sufficient local manufacturing capacity. “We’re not equipment manufacturers. Without some level of independence, we risk becoming hostages to external suppliers,” he stated emphatically.

While discussing international comparisons, Jega referred to India which, despite its technological advances, continues to rely on mechanical voting instead of fully electronic systems. He reflected on the anticipation surrounding the adoption of e-voting post-2015 elections, stating, “After the 2015 elections, many expected us to adopt e-voting by 2019. But the reality is different. There’s still a lot we must invest in before such systems become feasible.”

In conclusion, Jega acknowledged the widespread support for updating electoral mechanisms but urged those in power to pursue reforms in a deliberate and practical manner. This, he argued, is essential for ensuring that Nigeria’s democratic processes gain the credibility and lasting value they require.

Professor Jega’s remarks underline the critical caution needed when considering e-voting in Nigeria. He highlights the significant gaps in infrastructure and manufacturing that could hinder such a transition. Overall, his call for careful, measured reforms suggests a need for strategic planning before implementing any technological updates in electoral processes.

Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com