Jega Warns Against Rushed Adoption of E-Voting in Nigeria

Former INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega warns Nigeria against hastily adopting electronic voting, citing insufficient infrastructure and reliance on foreign technology as major concerns. He emphasizes the need to modernize cautiously and invest in local manufacturing to avoid vulnerabilities.

Professor Attahiru Jega, the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has raised serious concerns regarding the rushed adoption of electronic voting in Nigeria. Speaking at an event in Lagos to mark Democracy Day, Jega emphasized the importance of caution, citing significant gaps in the nation’s technological infrastructure and capacity.

Jega pointed out that while there is an urgent need to modernize electoral processes, haste could lead to detrimental outcomes. “We have to understand the need to make haste slowly,” he stated. His comments reflect a growing anxiety within the political landscape about the sustainability and effectiveness of e-voting, given the limits of Nigeria’s current infrastructure.

He referenced Estonia, known for its advanced internet voting system, arguing that such a model is not easily applicable to Nigeria. “Estonia is a very small country with far better infrastructure. Nigeria is still struggling with internet access even in many urban centers—rural areas are worse,” Jega noted, highlighting the disconnection between aspirations and reality.

Jega further criticized Nigeria’s reliance on foreign suppliers for election-related technology, stressing the lack of domestic manufacturing capabilities. “We’re not equipment manufacturers. Without some level of independence, we risk becoming hostages to external suppliers,” he cautioned, pointing out the vulnerabilities this creates in the electoral process.

In his assessment, Jega also drew comparisons with India, which, despite its advancements, still utilizes mechanical voting. “After the 2015 elections, many expected us to adopt e-voting by 2019. But the reality is different. There’s still a lot we must invest in before such systems become feasible,” he said, reiterating the need for a more grounded approach to technology in elections.

Finally, Jega called upon government officials to implement electoral reforms through practical and measured steps. He insists that such a strategy is key to ensuring credibility in Nigeria’s democracy, rather than rushing into unfamiliar territories that could jeopardize public trust.

In summary, Professor Jega’s remarks cast a critical light on the potential pitfalls of adopting electronic voting in Nigeria. He stresses the need for deliberate planning and investment in infrastructure and local manufacturing capabilities. By advocating a cautious approach, he aims to safeguard the integrity and credibility of Nigeria’s electoral future.

Original Source: www.tv360nigeria.com