In a historic shift in Nigeria's electoral process, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that inmates across Nigerian correctional facilities will now be allowed to participate in future elections.
This groundbreaking development was announced by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, during an official briefing held in Abuja earlier this week. The decision follows a recent ruling by the Court of Appeal which affirmed that disenfranchising inmates, especially those awaiting trial, violates their constitutional rights.
> “The right to vote is a fundamental part of our democracy. We are now working closely with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to develop a clear framework that will ensure eligible inmates, particularly those awaiting trial, can exercise their voting rights,” Prof. Yakubu stated.
INEC to Release Guidelines Soon
The electoral body has begun consultations with relevant stakeholders to establish practical guidelines and legal protocols for implementing inmate voting. Special attention will be given to pre-trial detainees — individuals held in custody but not yet convicted of any crime — as they retain full civil rights under Nigerian law.
According to Prof. Yakubu, key considerations include:
Eligibility screening
Voting security protocols
Polling station logistics within correctional facilities
Transparency and monitoring mechanisms
INEC also confirmed that voting centers may be set up within designated prisons, under the supervision of both the electoral commission and independent observers.
A Turning Point in Electoral Inclusion
Legal and civil rights organizations have long campaigned for prison voting rights, arguing that excluding inmates — especially those yet to be convicted — is unjust and discriminatory. With this announcement, Nigeria joins a growing list of democracies that recognize the voting rights of incarcerated individuals.
Human rights lawyer, Barr. Zainab Musa, welcomed the news:
> “This decision is not just lawful, it's humane. Many inmates are victims of systemic delay and haven't even had their day in court. Denying them the right to vote compounds their injustice.”
Challenges Ahead
Despite the ruling and INEC’s commitment, challenges remain. These include ensuring adequate voter education, preventing electoral manipulation within prison environments, and addressing public skepticism about prisoner participation in elections.
However, INEC insists that preparations are already underway to integrate inmate voting into the 2027 general elections and possible earlier by-elections.
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