INEC advocates voting rights of inmates, seeks National Assembly’s support
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reiterated its commitment to enabling eligible inmates to participate in the electoral process, following several court rulings affirming their voting rights.
During a visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, emphasized, “We are aware that the right to vote is a human right which cannot be taken away from a citizen on account of time being served in a correctional facility.”
He referenced practices in other countries, including Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa, where inmates have had the opportunity to vote.
Yakubu highlighted a significant 2019 Court of Appeal judgment that recognized the voting rights of inmates awaiting trial.
He stressed the necessity for a “clear legal provision” to facilitate this process, ensuring compliance with electoral laws.
Reflecting on the collaboration with the Nigeria Correctional Service, Yakubu mentioned discussions focused on how inmates can register and vote.
He outlined the need for logistical arrangements such as polling unit creation, registration access, and political campaign protocols in correctional facilities.
In response, Sylvester Nwakuche, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Correctional Service, urged INEC to extend electoral rights to inmates. With over 81,000 inmates currently in custody—approximately 66 percent awaiting trial—Nwakuche underscored the importance of upholding the constitutional rights of these individuals.
While the Court of Appeal upheld the rights of five inmates who challenged the system, it did not obligate INEC to establish registration centers in prisons. Nevertheless, Yakubu assured, “The Commission is determined to work within the law to enfranchise inmates where possible.”
He added, “Our immediate task is to engage with the National Assembly for a clear legal provision on inmate voting,” pointing to ongoing discussions about ambiguities in the Electoral Act concerning legal incapacity and voting rights.
Source: Vanguard newspaper
