INEC Chairman to Deliver Keynote at Launch of Book on Nigeria’s Democratic Journey

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, is set to deliver the keynote address at the launch of a new book that examines Nigeria’s democratic journey since the country’s return to civilian rule.

The publication, titled SHADOWS: Protest Essays on Africa’s Most Consequential Country (1999–2023), spans more than 900 pages across two volumes. It documents major political developments and democratic experiences in Nigeria between 1999 and 2023.

Amupitan is expected to speak on the theme, “Strengthening Electoral Institutions: Pathways to Free, Fair, and Peaceful Elections in 2027.” His presentation will focus on reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the organisers, the book presents an account of Nigeria’s democratic evolution. It highlights institutional growth, policy achievements, and governance challenges that have influenced the country’s political landscape.

The essays also examine issues such as corruption, insecurity, human rights abuses, leadership, policy failures, executive-legislature relations, the cost of governance, and public accountability.

In addition, the publication discusses political godfatherism, internal democracy within political parties, electoral malpractice, the use of religion in politics, elite hypocrisy, ethnic mobilisation, and the influence of money on Nigeria’s political process.

The organisers said the book provides a historical record of the personalities, events, and issues that have shaped Nigeria’s politics and power structure since 1999. They added that it also reflects on how those developments continue to influence the country’s democratic trajectory.