Group seeks ending election petitions at Court of Appeal

The Independent Judicial Accountability Panel (IJAP) has put forth significant recommendations aimed at reforming Nigeria's electoral and judicial systems. At its fifth session in Abuja, the panel proposed a streamlined approach to election litigation, suggesting that appeals for National Assembly and governorship elections should conclude at the Court of Appeal, with a five-member panel hearing cases. This aims to expedite the resolution of electoral disputes.

Beyond election petitions, the IJAP also addressed the structure of the judiciary, renewing its call to unbundle the office of the Chief Justice of Nigeria. This move is intended to decentralize power and enhance transparency within the judicial system. The panel further advocated for defined roles and responsibilities for deputies to all court heads.

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Election litigations for the House of Representatives, Senate, and Governorship elections should be two levels, ending at the Court of Appeal, with a five-member panel.

In a bid to foster a more inclusive electoral process and curb "godfatherism," the IJAP recommended constitutional recognition of independent candidacy. However, they stressed that conditions should be in place to prevent a proliferation of candidates. Additionally, the panel proposed a five-year restriction on former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials from engaging in partisan politics after leaving the commission, aiming to prevent potential conflicts of interest and undue influence.

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there should be provisions for deputies to all heads of courts, with their roles and responsibilities clearly defined.