Why BVAS Faces Challenges in Nigeria Compared to Ghana: Key Lessons for Credible Elections The inability of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deliver credible elections has raised concerns, particularly when compared to Ghana’s success with the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). Despite advancements in election technology, including the introduction of BVAS, Nigeria continues to face significant challenges, as evidenced by the public outcry following the 2019 and 2023 elections. Meanwhile, Ghana’s smooth presidential election processes—marked by transparency and integrity—underscore the stark differences in electoral outcomes between the two nations. Below are seven critical reasons BVAS thrives in Ghana but faces significant obstacles in Nigeria. 1. Integrity of Electoral Leadership Ghana: Electoral officials in Ghana prioritize transparency and fairness. The leadership ensures that elections are credible, fostering public trust. For example, the leadership of Madam Jean Mensa has upheld the country’s election credibility. Nigeria: The human factor undermines Nigeria’s BVAS operations. Accusations of bias, corruption, and complicity plague INEC, eroding public confidence in the system. 2. Non-Partisan Appointments Ghana: Electoral officers in Ghana are appointed based on merit and neutrality, reducing political interference. Nigeria: Conversely, political affiliations often influence appointments in Nigeria. Some INEC officials have ties to political elites, creating opportunities for intentional sabotage of BVAS. 3. Accountability and Penalties Ghana: Electoral malpractice attracts severe penalties in Ghana, deterring unethical behavior. Special courts ensure that justice is swift. Nigeria: Accountability is weak in Nigeria. Electoral malpractices often go unpunished, emboldening those who undermine the system. This lack of consequences fuels distrust in the process. 4. Retention of Proven Leaders Ghana: Continuity in leadership ensures institutional memory. Leaders like Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan transformed Ghana’s electoral system through decades of credible service. Nigeria: Proven leaders in Nigeria are often replaced or sidelined, disrupting institutional growth. This lack of continuity hampers electoral integrity. 5. Technical Training and Implementation Ghana: Well-trained staff ensure smooth BVAS implementation. Rigorous training equips electoral officials to address technical challenges. Nigeria: Training for electoral staff is often inadequate, with allegations of deliberate sabotage during critical moments, such as server failures during elections. This undermines BVAS functionality. 6. Political Will and Stakeholder Commitment Ghana: Political actors in Ghana demonstrate genuine commitment to free and fair elections, ensuring BVAS operates effectively. Nigeria: Political interference in Nigeria undermines BVAS. Stakeholders often manipulate the system to achieve favorable outcomes, further eroding public trust. 7. Adherence to Constitutional Provisions Ghana: Leaders respect constitutional guidelines in appointing electoral officials, ensuring credibility. Nigeria: In Nigeria, constitutional provisions for appointments are often ignored, leading to partisan selections that compromise the integrity of elections. Declining Voter Turnout in Nigeria Voter turnout in Nigeria has been steadily declining, from 69.1% in 2003 to just 26.7% in 2023. This trend reflects growing apathy fueled by distrust in INEC, logistical challenges, and fears of election-day violence. Recommendations for Nigeria To ensure BVAS functions effectively in future elections, Nigeria must adopt the following measures: Conclusion Ghana’s success with BVAS highlights the importance of integrity, accountability, and commitment in electoral processes. For Nigeria to restore public trust, significant reforms must address the human factors undermining BVAS. The 2027 elections will be a litmus test for Nigeria’s commitment to credible and transparent elections. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
President Bola Tinubu has extended congratulations to John Dramani Mahama following his victory in the December 7 general elections in Ghana. Mahama, who was declared President-elect after his opponent’s concession speech, will return to power for a second term. In a telephone conversation, President Tinubu expressed optimism that Mahama’s return to office would further strengthen stability within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), an organization chaired by President Tinubu. President Tinubu praised the people of Ghana for their unwavering commitment to democracy, noting the peaceful and successful conduct of both the presidential and parliamentary elections. He commended Ghanaians for once again demonstrating that democracy is the key to achieving political stability, economic growth, social justice, and good governance in Africa. The Nigerian leader emphasized that Nigeria and the entire region are proud of the principles that uphold citizens’ right to freely choose their leaders. He also applauded Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President of Ghana and the candidate of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), for his early concession of defeat, reinforcing Ghana’s democratic values. President Tinubu recognized Mahama’s return to the Jubilee House as a testament to the Ghanaian people’s trust in his leadership. Having previously served as President from 2012 to 2017, Mahama’s leadership is seen as crucial in advancing the country’s development. Mahama’s political career includes serving as Vice President from 2009 to 2012, a Member of Parliament from 1997 to 2009, and holding deputy and ministerial roles from 1998 to 2001. President Tinubu reaffirmed his strong support for enhancing the ties between Nigeria and Ghana, based on shared history, cultural bonds, mutual support, and Pan-African goals. He also thanked outgoing President Nana Akufo-Addo for his exceptional leadership and contributions to both Ghana’s progress and regional peace. Looking ahead, President Tinubu expressed his eagerness to collaborate with President Mahama’s incoming administration to further strengthen bilateral relations and build a prosperous future for the West African region. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
