Ahead of off-cycle governorship elections in Nigeria’s Edo and Ondo states, the Abuja based Initiative for Research, Innovation and Advocacy in Development (IRIAD) and The Electoral Hub are calling for a renewed commitment to democratic principles and values. In a statement commemorating the 2024 International Day of Democracy, the platforms described the elections as critical for Nigeria’s democratic journey.
It drew attention to the theme of the International Day which is “Artificial Intelligence as a Tool for Good Governance”, stressing the need for democratic institutions to proactively address the challenges involved.
While acknowledging the transformative potential of AI in enhancing government operations, particularly in areas of transparency and accountability, the platforms, however, raised concerns about the technology’s implications for privacy, potential bias in decision-making processes, and its impact on employment.
IRIAD/The Electoral Hub expressed deep concern over what it describes as a decline in civil liberties and shrinking civic spaces. The organization cites reports of intimidation and violence against civil society activists, advocates, and journalists. This political environment, they argue, poses a serious threat to the fundamental human rights that democracy is meant to protect, impacting citizens’ ability to engage freely in the political process.
The organizations call on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct transparent and fair elections that genuinely reflect the will of the people. This includes ensuring that all eligible voters can participate without barriers. Political parties and candidates are urged to engage in ethical campaign practices, focusing on constructive dialogue and substantive issues that matter to the electorate. The IRIAD – The Electoral Hub strongly condemns the use of hate speech and violence in political campaigns.
