Abuja Law Firm Urges INEC to Enhance Electoral Transparency Ahead of 2027 Polls

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Abuja-based legal practice The Law Corridor has advised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enhance transparency, improve public access to electoral information, and ensure strict compliance with statutory provisions. Speaking on Thursday in the Federal Capital Territory during a media briefing commemorating the firm's Founders' Day, Managing Partner Henry Kelechukwu Eniotu emphasized that credible polls require accurate voter records, lawful procedures, and open public oversight. What specific statutory sections did the firm highlight regarding electoral compliance? Pointing to the Electoral Act, Eniotu referenced Section 19 concerning the publication of voters' registers and Section 77 regarding political parties' membership lists submitted prior to internal primaries and congresses. He urged the electoral body to clearly communicate operational timelines, facilitate accessible avenues for citizen verification, and streamline mechanisms for addressing corrections and objections. The firm further recommended that the commission clarify how it verifies political party membership inventories while respecting data protection laws. Eniotu also pressed for greater clarity in publishing voter registration metrics, suggesting that INEC explicitly differentiate between raw applications, completed registrations, and final eligible voters. He stated, “Public confidence grows when electoral procedures and information can withstand scrutiny.” Furthermore, the firm advised political parties to maintain precise membership registers and adhere strictly to regulatory obligations. Addressing separate legal matters, the firm advocated for the legislative removal of the Attorney- General's consent prerequisite for initiating garnishee proceedings against public funds under the Sheriffs and Civil Process Act, arguing that successful litigants currently endure unjust delays. Finally, addressing public health and penal reforms, Eniotu urged the National Assembly to repeal laws criminalizing attempted suicide, stressing that survivors need psychiatric care rather than penal prosecution.