Electoral Reforms has increased the level of independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Problem: Elections in Nigeria were notorious for electoral fraud, violence and interminable litigation. There was no confidence in election results and the electoral bodies lacked credibility locally and internationally.

Reform Actions: 
- Amendment of the Electoral Act in 2010 
- Amendment of relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution 
- Appointment of a credible Chairman for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) 

Main Achievements: Reform has increased the level of independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in operational and financial terms, when compared to the pre-Jonathan administration. The 2011 elections were generally regarded as credible, free, and fair. There has been greater insulation of INEC from partisanship, and there is quicker dispensation of electoral disputes.

Key Challenges: 
(a) denting of INEC’s developing good image arising from the conduct of Anambra elections, although these have been substantially repaired following the Ekiti and Osun elections; 
(b) credibility of voter registers and cards; and 
(c) existence of project management difficulties, particularly getting electoral material to sites as and when due. 

Reference:  Public Service Reforms in Nigeria (1999-2014) - A Comprehensive Review

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