EU Mission presses for constitutional and judicial reforms as Nigeria prepares for 2027 elections

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) has urged Nigeria to push through constitutional and judicial reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning that delays could undermine the country’s democratic progress.

Barry Andrews, a member of the European Parliament and chief observer of the EU Mission to Nigeria’s 2023 polls, led the delegation on a visit to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja. The trip was part of a follow-up assessment on the implementation of recommendations made after the last election.

EU: progress made, but challenges remain

Mr Andrews commended INEC for its cooperation and efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, but stressed that deeper legal reforms are essential.

“We have noted significant improvements in several areas, though some challenges remain, particularly those requiring judicial and constitutional reforms which take more time,” he said.

He added that the EU’s recommendations were in line with international standards: “Election observation is part of a global effort to strengthen and support democracy, not only in Africa but worldwide, including in Europe.”

INEC warns of risks of delay

INEC chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu welcomed the EU team but cautioned that Nigeria’s lawmakers must act quickly to review and pass new electoral laws.

“An early passage of law is critical to our planning for the elections. Uncertainty over the legal framework can unsettle the work of the Commission as elections draw nearer,” he said.

He noted that several of the EU’s key recommendations could only be achieved through legislative amendments, making action by the National Assembly urgent.

Reform pressure builds ahead of 2027

The EU’s renewed push comes as Nigeria faces mounting calls from civil society and election stakeholders to overhaul its electoral system, following widespread criticism of the 2023 polls.

Observers believe that without timely legal clarity, the credibility of the 2027 elections could be at risk.