European Union observers urge for urgent electoral and constitutional reforms, warning that delayed action could erode voter confidence before 2027 polls.
European Union Electoral Observer Mission (EU OEM) has warned that Nigeria is running out of time to implement key reforms needed to ensure credible general elections in 2027.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday October 4, 2025, the head of the EU follow-up mission, Barry Andrews, called for swift and coordinated action to fast-track electoral and constitutional reforms, emphasizing that credible elections depend on transparent processes and public trust.
“The country’s resilience depends on reforms that citizens can believe in,” Andrews said. “So far, only one of the 23 recommendations made after the 2023 general elections has been fully implemented.”
According to the mission’s findings, two recommendations have been partially implemented, eight are still in progress, three are too early to assess, and nine remain untouched. The observers noted that most of the recommendations require either legal or administrative changes to strengthen the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.
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The EU’s 2023 report had outlined 23 key recommendations, including 11 requiring amendments to existing laws and 12 involving administrative improvements by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other institutions. These proposals focused on improving result transmission, dispute resolution, campaign financing, and inclusivity in the electoral process.
While commending Nigeria’s National Assembly for ongoing amendments to the Electoral Act 2025 and the continuing constitutional review, Andrews warned that time was rapidly slipping away. “Reforms must be completed well before the next election cycle to give electoral bodies sufficient time for implementation,” he cautioned.
The mission urged Nigerian authorities, including INEC and the legislature, to prioritize transparency and inclusiveness, stressing that restoring voter confidence is crucial after the controversies surrounding the 2023 elections.
The EU Observer Mission also reiterated its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democratic development through technical advice and institutional cooperation. It emphasized that credible elections are fundamental to the country’s stability, governance, and international reputation.
Political analysts have echoed the EU’s concerns, warning that delays in electoral reform could lead to logistical challenges, legal uncertainties, and public skepticism ahead of the 2027 polls — issues that marred the last election cycle.
As the clock ticks toward 2027, the message from the EU is clear: Nigeria must act now to guarantee free, fair, and transparent elections that command public confidence.
Africa Daily News, New York
