Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition

Transparent, accountable, & inclusive electoral process in Nigeria that promotes citizen participation, integrity in voting, and trust in democratic institution

[Pat Utomi @UtomiPat]

Until public office is stripped of its material attractions public life will majorly attract people whose goals are not service and whose service will more likely bring misery to the people than progress.

[Pat Utomi @UtomiPat]

If we had a NASS I would suggest laws that would checkmate the squandering of Hormuz windfall. But the Akpabio Assembly does not exist. In Cost Benefit terms the 10th Assembly is all costs no benefit to the Nigerian people

[Pat Utomi @UtomiPat]

AI madness. Just to clear the air. Kayode Akintemi and I have never had a disagreeable conversation. Last we saw for an interview, he walked me to my car.
I do not have the temperament to walk out on people, in the first place. If it is to start, not with him.

[Pat Utomi @UtomiPat]

Character matters. Once politics came to be dominated by people of questionable upbringing and values where we have arrived at was a matter of time

[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

NERCO reaffirms commitment to electoral reforms, warns against political manipulation

[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

OFFICIAL PRESS STATEMENT

NIGERIA ELECTORAL REFORM COALITION (NERCO)

Date: October 31, 2025
Venue: ECOWAS Parliament, Abuja

NERCO REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO ELECTORAL REFORM

The Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition (NERCO) has reiterated its commitment to advancing credible and transparent electoral reforms. National Convener, Mr Okereke Chinedu Ukpola, addressed the media, emphasising the need to protect the integrity of the ongoing Electoral Act amendment by the National Assembly’s Joint Committee on Electoral Matters.

NERCO urged the Joint Committee to remain steadfast against external pressures and warned that any amendments compromising accountability and fairness would not be accepted.

KEY POINTS:

Electronic Transmission of Results: NERCO insists on mandatory electronic transmission of results to the INEC Result Viewing Portal, labelling any failure to do so as a direct threat to democracy.

Digital Voter Accreditation:
The proposed use of QR codes for voter identification must connect securely to the National Identity Number (NIN) database to prevent fraud.

Vote Buying and Selling:
Strengthening Sections 62(9), 7(12), and 74(2) of the Electoral Act to address vote buying is crucial, with severe consequences suggested for offenders.

INEC Leadership Appointments:
Calls for a transparent process involving the National Judicial Council and civil society in the appointment of the INEC Chairman and Commissioners.

Timely Presidential Assent:
There is concern over delays in the President’s assent to the amended Electoral Act, which must be resolved to ensure implementation before the 2027 elections.

SUMMARY OF DEMANDS:

1. Secure NIN linkage for digital voter accreditation.
2. Strengthen regulations against vote buying.
3. Enforce electronic results transmission.
4. Place the burden of proof on INEC for declared results.
5. Ensure transparency in INEC leadership appointments.
6. Establish a timeline for presidential assent.
7. Implement the amended Electoral Act by the 2027 elections.
8. Resist manipulation attempts by vested interests.
9. Hold the National Assembly accountable for credible reform.

CONCLUSION

NERCO emphasises that ongoing reforms are vital for Nigeria’s democracy and not merely a political issue.

[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

SENATOR SERIAKE DICKSON MEETS WITH NERCO, PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR ELECTORAL REFORM BILL

The Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition (NERCO) continues to gain critical legislative backing as part of its ongoing advocacy for a credible and transparent electoral process. Earlier today, the coalition held a highly productive meeting with Senator Seriake Dickson, former Governor of Bayelsa State and a prominent member of the National Assembly.

During the engagement, NERCO presented its proposed Electoral Reform Bill and discussed pathways to strengthen legislative support for key amendments that will guarantee fairness and integrity in future elections. Senator Dickson, in response, expressed his strong alignment with NERCO’s objectives and assured the coalition of his full support.

> “I will personally advocate for this cause both in the Senate and the House of Representatives,” the Senator affirmed, emphasising the urgency of reforms that reflect the true will of the Nigerian people.

He further urged NERCO to intensify its grassroots mobilisation efforts, particularly at the polling unit level, noting that civic participation remains the foundation for any sustainable reform.

Senator Dickson also encouraged the coalition to maintain consistent communication and collaboration with his office, assuring that he remains open to ongoing dialogue as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

In his closing remarks, NERCO’s National Convener, Mr Okereke Chinedu Ukpola, commended Senator Dickson for his statesmanship and unwavering commitment to democratic strengthening, reaffirming that the coalition will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the success of its reform agenda.

The meeting marks another significant milestone in NERCO’s national advocacy campaign, as the coalition deepens engagement with key democratic stakeholders to drive lasting electoral reform.

_NERCO Media & Publication Unit_

[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

SENATOR ALI NDUME COMMENDS NERCO, BACKS CONTINUED PUSH FOR ELECTORAL REFORMS

In a strong show of support for credible democratic advancement, Senator Ali Ndume, the Chief Whip of the Senate, has commended the Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition (NERCO) for its unwavering commitment to championing electoral reforms across the nation.

The Senator made this remark just minutes after NERCO’s press conference held at the ECOWAS Parliament, Abuja, where the coalition outlined its key reform demands and restated the people’s position on ensuring transparency, accountability, and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.

Senator Ndume praised NERCO’s courage and persistence, describing the coalition’s advocacy as “a patriotic movement in the right direction.” He emphasised that the call for reform was not just a political demand but a civic responsibility necessary to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

> “What NERCO is doing is commendable. We need more citizen-led coalitions to sustain the conversation on credible elections. This is how change begins — through resilience and constructive engagement,” the Senator noted.

He further assured that the National Assembly would continue to welcome constructive dialogue with civic groups like NERCO, adding that genuine reforms require collaboration between citizens, lawmakers, and institutions.

In response, NERCO’s National Convener, Mr Okereke Chinedu Ukpola, expressed appreciation for the Senator’s acknowledgement, reaffirming that the movement will continue to push for reforms until Nigeria achieves a truly transparent electoral framework.

> “This encouragement from Senator Ndume is not just recognition; it is a call to keep pressing forward. Our mission remains clear — to ensure that no election in Nigeria is left to chance or manipulation,” Mr Ukpola stated.

The Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition (NERCO) continues to mobilise civic stakeholders nationwide in its pursuit of a credible and inclusive electoral system that reflects the true will of the people.

_NERCO Media & Publication Unit_

[ALT Media @AltMedia_news]

Atiku throws support behind youth push on electoral reform

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[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

```NERCO Celebrates Productive Engagement with Atiku Abubakar```

Abuja, October 6, 2025

The Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition (NERCO) recently visited His Excellency Atiku Abubakar to discuss crucial electoral reforms essential for Nigeria's democracy ahead of the 2027 elections.

Led by Pastor Ukpola O. Chinedu, the dedicated team highlighted the need for two key amendments: mandatory electronic transmission of results and removing the President's discretionary power in appointing Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials, instead advocating for a transparent, citizen-led recruitment process.

We expressed concerns about the vulnerabilities revealed during the 2023 elections, with the current law undermining public trust. H.E. Atiku Abubakar endorsed our demands, emphasizing the urgent need for technology-driven reforms to ensure credible elections. He urged the National Assembly to act quickly and called on both local and international organizations to maintain pressure for change.

This meeting represents a pivotal moment in our push for electoral integrity. NERCO is committed to mobilising citizens and fostering partnerships in this crucial cause—because a reformed electoral system is vital for a thriving democracy where every Nigerian's voice matters.

Follow @NERCO_NG for updates and join us in the fight for #EveryVoteCounts #ElectoralReformNow.

[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

We express our gratitude for the generous welcome extended by His Excellency Atiku Abubakar.

Our discussion centred on the urgent need for electoral reform as we approach the 2027 election.

We underscored the necessity for mandatory electronic transmission of election results directly from the polling unit to the collation board.

Additionally, we stressed the critical importance of a citizen-supervised appointment of the INEC officials from the Federal to the state level.

His Excellency unequivocally pledged his support for our fight for meaningful electoral reform.

[Atiku Abubakar @atiku]

This afternoon, I received a delegation of young Nigerians led by Pastor Ukpola O. Chinedu from the Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition (NERCO).

I could relate to the urgency in their demands that the National Assembly amend the current electoral act to make electronic transmission of results from polling units mandatory.

They are deeply worried that the current Act, which left the mode of transmission of results at the discretion of INEC, negatively impacted the 2023 general elections.

They informed me that the group is not only pressuring the National Assembly on mandatory electronic transmission of results but also on taking the powers of appointing INEC officials from the President, vesting it on a transparent recruitment process by citizens.

These efforts, they said, are aimed at demanding that every vote counts in our elections.

I agree with the group that demanding transparent and credible elections is the way to go.

I am also of the firm belief that the full deployment of technology in Nigeria's election process has become necessary and supports the call on the National Assembly to act with urgency as 2027 approaches.

I reiterated that both local and international organisations that are worried about the conduct of elections in our country must sustain the pressure on the National Assembly until the needed electoral reforms are achieved. -AA

[Atiku Abubakar @atiku]

This afternoon, I received a delegation of young Nigerians led by Pastor Ukpola O. Chinedu from the Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition (NERCO).

I could relate to the urgency in their demands that the National Assembly amend the current electoral act to make electronic transmission of results from polling units mandatory.

They are deeply worried that the current Act, which left the mode of transmission of results at the discretion of INEC, negatively impacted the 2023 general elections.

They informed me that the group is not only pressuring the National Assembly on mandatory electronic transmission of results but also on taking the powers of appointing INEC officials from the President, vesting it on a transparent recruitment process by citizens.

These efforts, they said, are aimed at demanding that every vote counts in our elections.

I agree with the group that demanding transparent and credible elections is the way to go.

I am also of the firm belief that the full deployment of technology in Nigeria's election process has become necessary and supports the call on the National Assembly to act with urgency as 2027 approaches.

I reiterated that both local and international organisations that are worried about the conduct of elections in our country must sustain the pressure on the National Assembly until the needed electoral reforms are achieved. -AA

[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

As you celebrate 65 years of Nigeria independence, ask yourself what am I doing to ensure Nigeria is independent indeed, through a transparent and credible election process, Join NERCO today as we drive the advocacy for Electoral Reforms, to birth a people centric electoral system

[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

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Why Corrupt Politicians Fear a Credible Electoral System in Nigeria

It is no secret that the prevailing disorder and corruption in Nigeria's political landscape are the lifelines of many current political officeholders. A credible and transparent electoral system poses a direct threat to the very foundation upon which their power stands.

These politicians, who thrive in darkness and deceit, are naturally terrified of the light of accountability that credible elections bring. Just as the righteous are never afraid of exposure, because they have nothing to hide, so does the corrupt flee from transparency — because their works are evil.

The current corrupt system gripping Nigeria will stop at nothing to frustrate, silence, or eliminate any credible and competent individual with a genuine vision for leadership — especially at the presidential level. We’ve seen it happen time and again. They manipulate institutions, rewrite rules, deploy propaganda, and corruptly influence outcomes — all in a desperate bid to maintain the status quo.

Take Abia State for example: the road to breaking free from political deception and recycled leadership was tough and bitter. Yet, the power of the people eventually prevailed over the power of incumbency. The results we see today are proof that leadership is not rocket science — it's about sincerity, competence, and a people-first approach.

However, at the national level, the stakes are even higher. The presidency is not just a seat of power — it’s a throne fiercely protected by a web of ethnic loyalties, foreign interests, business cartels, and entrenched corruption. These vested interests — both local and international — cannot afford to see an honest man or woman occupy that seat. Why? Because even six months of leadership by a man or woman of integrity could shake their empire to its core.

Imagine a credible president appointing an incorruptible Attorney General. Imagine a reformed Supreme Court made up of fearless, principled judges. Imagine an Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) free from political manipulation. In that kind of Nigeria, stolen mandates would be returned, looted funds recovered, and long-standing political fraudsters brought to justice.

They know this. That’s why they resist even the idea of a one-term reformer. One tenure is enough to uncover decades of deceit. That’s why they are afraid. Examples abound: multi-billion dollar fuel subsidy scams, looted COVID-19 palliatives, abandoned mega projects, inflated budgets, foreign loans mortgaging the future of unborn generations — all swept under the rug by a system that protects the guilty.

They fear a system where elections cannot be bought, where oil blocks are not handed out as favours, where youth votes count, and where religious and ethnic sentiments cannot be weaponised to divide and distract. They know that in a reformed Nigeria, justice will not be for sale.

This is why we must rise.

We must awaken to the urgency of the moment. We cannot afford to go into 2027 with the same broken system. We must demand — and fight for — total electoral reform: full electronic registration, voting, and result transmission; financial transparency in campaigns; credible appointments to INEC; and accountability for electoral crimes.

We must unite across religious, ethnic, and regional lines. The division we experience today is artificially created to weaken our collective strength. We must reject it.

This is not just a political struggle. It is a battle for survival, justice, and national rebirth.

Nigerians, the time is now. Let us stand together and ensure that the voice and vote of the people are not only heard but respected and protected. The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy — but we can and must put an end to it.

May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Ukpola, Okereke Chinedu (Pastor Oaks)
National Convener
Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition (NERCO)

[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

Due to unforeseen circumstances, the space scheduled for today has been postponed to tomorrow, August 6th, 2025.

[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

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[Ezekiel Jaja @ezekiel_jaja5]

Electoral reforms is the best thing that will happen to Nigeria

[Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition @NERCO_NG]

Join our 4-day X space from the 5th of August to the 8th of August