Publication:

Report of the African Union Election Observation Mission on the 25 February 2023 Presidential and National Assembly Elections in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Following an invitation from Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the African Union (AU) deployed a 90-member Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) to observe the 25 February 2023 presidential and National Assembly elections. Led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, with support from Hon. Justice (Rtd) Effie Owuor, the mission aimed to monitor the entire electoral process in accordance with AU principles and international standards for democratic elections. The election, which marked the end of President Muhammadu Buhari’s second term, saw 18 presidential candidates, including one woman, contesting, with Bola Tinubu of the APC emerging as the winner. Despite challenges such as insecurity in certain regions, the fuel scarcity, and the liquidity crisis caused by the Naira redesign, the electoral environment remained generally peaceful. However, low voter turnout (29%) and concerns over the right to political participation were noted, especially regarding the ability to run as an independent candidate. Significant reforms were implemented under the 2022 Electoral Act, including the use of new technologies like the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Results Viewing Portal (IReV), which were praised by the AUEOM. The mission also noted the pivotal role of the media and social media in promoting electoral participation, though misinformation was a concern. Despite opposition claims of irregularities, which led to court challenges, the election was seen as a critical step toward consolidating democracy in Nigeria. The AUEOM recommended measures to improve electoral security, enhance inclusion for women, youth, and persons with disabilities, and ensure better access for Nigerians abroad to vote. It also urged INEC to improve logistical strategies, including more testing of new technologies and adjustments to voting times. For the AU and ECOWAS, continued monitoring and support for electoral processes were emphasized to strengthen democratic practices and address electoral challenges moving forward.