Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has expressed admiration for Ghana’s political stability and the loyalty of its politicians to their parties—a stark difference from Nigeria’s political scene, where party defections are common.
Yakubu commended Ghana’s efficient electoral processes, highlighting innovations that contributed to the smooth conduct of its 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.
Daily Trust reports that former President John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) emerged victorious in the presidential election after his main opponent, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), conceded defeat. Bawumia congratulated Mahama, stating, “The people of Ghana have spoken, and they have voted for change. We respect this with all humility.”
The election signaled the end of the NPP’s two-term rule under President Nana Akufo-Addo, amid one of Ghana’s most severe economic crises in recent years. Prof. Yakubu, who monitored the elections with Yiaga Africa observers, emphasized the importance of Ghana’s consistent party structures and loyal voter base in ensuring democratic stability.
“In Ghana, it’s uncommon to see politicians changing parties with each election cycle. This stability benefits both political parties and their supporters, who remain committed regardless of the party’s status,” Yakubu noted.
He also praised Ghana for adopting a decentralized system of managing election results, inspired by Nigeria. Under this system, parliamentary results are announced locally, while only presidential results are declared in Accra. This approach has enhanced the speed and transparency of the electoral process.
Yakubu expressed satisfaction with the elections, emphasizing the value of shared lessons between Ghana and Nigeria in improving electoral practices.
