The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun moves to allow inmates of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) to vote in future elections, in line with a recent Court of Appeal judgment affirming prisoners’ voting rights.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this on Thursday during a meeting with the Comptroller-General of the NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Yakubu said the plan, if fully implemented, could see over 73,000 inmates in Nigerian correctional facilities casting their ballots in the 2027 general elections.
He explained that discussions with the NCoS had centred on setting up polling units in prisons, registering eligible inmates, providing voter education, and ensuring transparency through media and observer access.
The INEC boss stressed the need to clearly define which inmates would be eligible to vote, noting that those with legal incapacities under Section 12(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 would be excluded.
“This initiative is part of our commitment to ensuring that all Nigerians, including inmates, have the opportunity to exercise their civic rights,” Yakubu stated.
The move aligns with practices in countries like Kenya and South Africa, where prisoners are already allowed to vote.
Representing the Comptroller-General, Assistant Comptroller-General Daniel Odaro pledged the NCoS’ support to make the plan a reality.
Civil society groups, including the Carmelites Prisoners’ Interest Organisation (CAPIO), have welcomed the development.
A draft framework adopted in May 2024 is being finalised for submission to the National Assembly to amend the Electoral Act and strengthen the legal basis for inmate voting.
Yakubu assured that despite logistical and security challenges, INEC would work with stakeholders to ensure a transparent and credible process.
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