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Published 24 December 2020
FRIDAY OLOKOR, in this piece, describes the recently-held governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states during COVID-19 as learning curves for Nigerians and INEC
When the Greeks conceptualised the idea of democracy 3,000 years ago, their aim was to spearhead a process where the citizens could hold political office holders and leaders accountable through the ballot. At its best, democracy should afford the masses the opportunity to have a say on governance and who governs them.
Conducting elections in Nigeria has never been a tea party. Successive general elections in the country have been largely characterised by last-minute postponements, inconclusive electoral process, irregularities and militarisation of the entire process among others. What appeared to be the greatest challenge to the conduct of elections in Nigeria so far is the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. This was a test case for the Independent National Electoral Commission.