Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda’s APC Chairmanship: A Threat to INEC’s Credibility in Future Nigerian Elections?
Introduction: The Fragile State of Electoral Trust in Nigeria
The foundation of any thriving democracy rests on the integrity and impartiality of its electoral processes. In Nigeria, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) bears the constitutional responsibility for conducting free, fair, and credible elections. However, public confidence in INEC has suffered significant erosion, particularly following the controversial “technical glitch” during the 2023 presidential election that delayed the real-time upload of results (Form EC8A) to the IReV portal.
The recent appointment of Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as Chairman of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) introduces a complex new dimension to Nigeria’s electoral landscape. With his unique combination of technical expertise, direct electoral administration experience, and now partisan political leadership, this development raises serious questions about INEC’s perceived neutrality in future elections.
Professor Yilwatda’s Unique Professional Profile
A Convergence of Critical Experiences
Professor Yilwatda’s career trajectory presents an unprecedented combination of qualifications relevant to electoral integrity:
1. ICT Director (Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi, 12 years)
This extensive background demonstrates deep expertise in information and communication technologies, including network security, data management, and system architecture – all crucial components of modern electoral systems.
2. Resident Electoral Commissioner (INEC Benue State, 2017-2021)
As a former REC, Professor Yilwatda possessed intimate knowledge of INEC’s operational procedures, technological infrastructure (including IReV and BVAS systems), and internal safeguards and vulnerabilities.
3. Professor of Electrical Engineering
This academic position underscores his theoretical and practical expertise in systems optimization – knowledge that could be viewed with both admiration and suspicion in a political context.
4. Current APC Chairman
His leadership of Nigeria’s ruling party places him at the center of partisan political strategy and election campaigning.
The Shadow of the 2023 “Technical Glitch”
The failure to promptly upload presidential election results in 2023 remains a significant stain on INEC’s reputation. The commission’s explanation of a “technical glitch” was met with widespread skepticism, fueling allegations of result manipulation. This incident highlighted both the vulnerability of digital electoral systems and the critical importance of real-time transparency.
How Yilwatda’s Appointment Undermines INEC’s Credibility
Perception of Compromised Neutrality
Professor Yilwatda’s insider knowledge of INEC’s systems creates a powerful public perception that the APC now possesses an unfair advantage. His understanding of electoral technology vulnerabilities could be seen as providing the ruling party with privileged insight into the electoral umpire’s operations.
Erosion of Trust in Electoral Technology
The 2023 “technical glitch” narrative takes on new dimensions with Professor Yilwatda’s appointment. Future technical issues may be viewed not as accidental failures but as potential manipulations orchestrated by someone with both the technical capability and political motivation.
Potential Chilling Effect on INEC Staff
Current INEC personnel, particularly in technical departments, might feel indirect pressure knowing the ruling party chairman understands their systems and procedures intimately. This could subtly impact their independence and willingness to resist pressure.
Dangers to Nigerian Democracy
- Democratic Deconsolidation: Loss of faith in electoral fairness threatens the legitimacy of elected officials and institutions
- Increased Political Violence: Perceived electoral injustice could fuel social unrest and post-election violence
- Erosion of Rule of Law: Creates appearance of a system where rules can be bent by insiders
- Difficulty Attracting INEC Talent: Ethical professionals may avoid electoral roles fearing their expertise could be exploited
- International Reputation Damage: Could lead to reduced foreign investment and diplomatic strain
Recommendations for Safeguarding Electoral Integrity
- Enhanced INEC Transparency: Robust pre-election testing and real-time result viewing with clear explanations for any deviations
- Cooling-off Periods: Strict ethical guidelines preventing former electoral officials from assuming partisan roles for significant periods
- Strengthened Oversight: Increased scrutiny from civil society and international observers on technical aspects
- Institutional Independence: Ensuring INEC’s financial and operational autonomy from political influence
- Public Education: Demystifying electoral technology to build informed public trust
Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for Nigerian Democracy
Professor Yilwatda’s appointment presents profound challenges to Nigeria’s electoral integrity. While his professional journey demonstrates remarkable capability, his current position creates unavoidable perceptions of an uneven playing field. Addressing these concerns requires proactive measures from all stakeholders to preserve the fairness and transparency of Nigeria’s democratic processes.
NWAMBU Gabriel (Ph.D)
Writes from Abuja.
Credit: Original article published by Sahel Standard