The Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, has stirred controversy with his recent statement that Ghana learned from Nigeria’s experience in conducting credible general elections. Yakubu made this assertion while commenting on Ghana’s recently concluded presidential election, which saw ex-President John Mahama emerge victorious.
However, many have taken to social media to express their outrage and disappointment at Yakubu’s claim. Critics argue that Ghana’s election process has consistently been more transparent and credible than Nigeria’s, with results announced in a timely and efficient manner. In contrast, Nigeria’s elections have often been marred by controversy, delays, and disputes over results.
Ghana’s presidential election, held on December 7, 2024, was widely praised for its smooth conduct, with Mahama’s victory accepted by his opponent, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia. The election’s credibility was further underscored by the swift concession of defeat by Bawumia, who congratulated Mahama on his victory.
Yakubu’s statement has been met with widespread ridicule, with many Nigerians taking to social media to express their disbelief and outrage. As one commenter aptly put it, “If Ghana voted on Saturday and everybody knew the winner 24 hours later, even without being made official, what exactly did they learn from Nigeria?”