Reactions Trail Odinkalu’s Comment As Pat Utomi Says There Should Be Body Cams In All PUs In 2027

Human rights advocate Professor Chidi Odinkalu has endorsed economist Professor Pat Utomi’s demand for stronger public monitoring of Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Odinkalu voiced his support in a message posted on his official X account on Friday, October 9, 2026, following Utomi’s criticism of a position reportedly associated with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) concerning measures intended to improve election transparency.

The disagreement centres on proposals to introduce body cameras and live-streaming equipment at polling stations nationwide, allowing citizens to obtain greater visibility into electoral activities.

Utomi argued that technology should be used to strengthen public confidence in elections rather than discourage efforts to make the process more open. He expressed concern about the commission’s reported stance on initiatives designed to improve transparency and accountability.

Reacting to the position attributed to INEC, the economist said: “If INEC tells you that people can not bring things to make elections transparent, then they are criminals who don’t want the elections to be transparent.”

He also called for arrangements that would enable Nigerians to observe proceedings at polling units more closely, arguing that greater public access could encourage accountability during elections.

The economist’s proposal has drawn attention as political stakeholders and citizens continue discussing possible improvements to Nigeria’s electoral system before the next nationwide polls.

Odinkalu subsequently signalled his agreement with Utomi’s position. Responding to the economist’s comments on X, the human rights lawyer wrote, “I agree,” expressing support for the call for greater openness in the conduct of elections.

Advocates of live-streaming and body cameras believe such tools could provide useful records of events at polling stations and help clarify disputes. Nevertheless, implementing the proposals would require reliable equipment, adequate funding, clear regulations and measures to protect voters’ privacy.