The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Joash Amupitan, has called for urgent legal reforms. He made this call on Tuesday at the 47th Founders’ Day Lecture of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies.
The event took place at the Ayo Ajomo Auditorium of the University of Lagos. It brought together legal experts, academics, and policymakers.
Amupitan said technology is changing how governments work. He noted that digital platforms give citizens a stronger voice. They also help improve transparency.
However, he warned that these changes come with risks. According to him, Nigeria must act fast to protect its democracy.
Amupitan pointed to key threats in the digital space. These include misinformation, data breaches, and digital manipulation. He also mentioned concerns about artificial intelligence.
He explained that these issues are testing Nigeria’s legal system. As a result, he urged leaders to respond quickly.
Amupitan stressed that laws must keep up with technology. He said innovation should not outpace regulation. If it does, it could weaken democratic institutions.
Therefore, he called for laws that are clear, modern, and effective. He added that such laws will protect governance and build public trust.
In his keynote speech, Theodore Maiyaki spoke on civic participation. He said people now engage through social media and online campaigns.
He explained that citizens no longer rely only on elections. Instead, they now use digital tools to express their views.
Maiyaki said democracy depends on active participation. He warned that it weakens when citizens stay silent.
He also raised concerns about low participation among political elites. He called for stronger commitment to democratic processes.
Maiyaki said the rule of law must benefit citizens. He noted that people expect better schools, healthcare, and jobs.
However, delays in justice and political interference remain problems. These issues, he said, reduce public trust.
Both speakers agreed on the need for strong digital safeguards. They called for better data protection and stronger cybersecurity.
They also stressed the need for transparency in artificial intelligence. According to them, technology must support accountability, not hide it.
The Dean of Law at the University of Lagos, Abiola Sanni, called for closer collaboration with NIALS.
Similarly, Abdulqadir Abikan said the institute will continue to support policy and research.
Experts believe Nigeria must act now. Strong laws, active citizens, and clear policies will help protect democracy.
They agree that reforms are key in a fast-changing digital world.
