The perception of election observation as a one-day event is not only wrong but also injurious. Elections are composite, long-term activities. It is very important that election observers—domestic and international—assess elections with a thorough understanding of the dynamics of local politics, and that they take into consideration pre- and post-election activities in addition to the actual conduct of the elections.

This would better position observers for constructive participation and input on electoral processes, and minimize the danger of rash conclusions being drawn based on a lack of in-depth knowledge of and inadequate exposure to the system being observed.

A situation where international observers make mid-election assessments and release public statements on an election in progress can adversely affect the process. Comments from some of the international observers on the 2007 elections in Nigeria seemed to reflect an inability to comprehend the difficulties that are still being addressed in order to firmly establish democratic practices and values in the country.

It may be pertinent here to note that after the 2003 elections, the European Union Election Observation Mission reported that the presidential and governorship elections were marred by serious irregularities and fraud, and that minimum standards for democratic elections were not met. Strangely, these same words and comments were reproduced by the European Union Election Observation Mission on the 2007 election.

INEC firmly believes that Nigeria deserves the same diligence from international observers that is applied in all countries. This is even more imperative in a fledgling democracy that needs encouragement and guidance. If there are impediments and problems in the political environment that continue to impact on elections, it would be more helpful for observer groups to identify such issues and assist in resolving them, rather than recycling the same verdicts on Nigerian elections every four years.

International observer groups are expected to develop long-term programs for capacity building and understanding of the country. The Commission will launch programs that will encourage collaboration along this line, and help create an environment in which observers can be more helpful to the country in future elections.