Institutional Autonomy, Strategic Innovations, and Administration of Credible Elections in Nigeria

Abstract

The effects of strategic innovations on the credibility of an election is gaining the attention in 
comparative politics. Using the conduct of the Independent National Electoral Commission 
(INEC) during the 2015 general elections in Nigeria, preliminary findings indicated an autonomous commission that empowered Nigerian citizens and provided an opportunity for each to decide on who shall govern their affairs. Contestants – candidates and political parties – enjoyed an open field and an equal opportunity as the commission demonstrated a reasonable political neutrality, administrative efficiency, and public accountability in the administration of the elections. Indeed, it made bold decisions that established genuine procedures for the registration and validation of prospective voters, nomination and selection of prospective candidates, and harmonized the entire conduct of the elections. The use of micro-chipped Permanent Voters Card (PVC) and card reader machine were among the initiatives that guaranteed individual’s right of participation and enhanced competition.