Politics
INEC Urged to Address Electoral Challenges and Restore Confidence in Nigeria’s Democratic Process
INEC – In a recent keynote address at the 2023 Law Week Programme of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Benin City, Edo State, prominent human rights lawyer Mr Femi Falana expressed deep concern about the state of democracy in Nigeria. According to Falana, Nigeria has transitioned into a state of plutocracy, where the rule of the wealthy prevails over the principles of democracy. This shift has resulted in a loss of confidence in the democratic process among the Nigerian people.

Falana called upon the NBA to exert pressure on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to address several critical issues that marred the 2023 general elections. One of the pressing issues was the late arrival of INEC officials and ballot materials at polling stations, which led to logistical challenges and disruptions. Additionally, malfunctioning Biometric Voter Authentication System (BVAS) machines and limited or non-transmission of results from polling units to the Results Viewing Portal, IReV, were identified as problematic areas that needed urgent attention.
Highlighting a significant disparity, Falana pointed out that out of the 93 million registered voters, only 22 million actually cast their votes in the presidential election. This disparity raises concerns about the effectiveness of voter education and engagement, as well as the overall credibility of the electoral process.
Falana also stressed the need for INEC to address the issue of insecurity during elections. Instances of violent attacks on voters and officials, voter intimidation, snatching and destruction of voting materials, and widespread cases of vote-buying were reported during the 2023 general elections. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of ensuring accessible facilities for persons living with disabilities to enable their full participation in the electoral process.
To address these challenges and improve the integrity of future elections, Falana urged the NBA to convene a national summit to review the 2023 general elections. This summit should include representatives from all relevant stakeholders and be held once the election petitions are concluded by the various election petition tribunals, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court. The outcome of this summit should guide the NBA in collaborating with the judiciary committees of both houses of the National Assembly to draft amendments to the Constitution and the Electoral Act. These amendments should aim to institutionalize credible elections in Nigeria.
Falana’s address concluded with a call to action for mass-based organizations to mobilize the Nigerian people and encourage their active participation in the democratic process. By empowering the citizens to take control of their political destiny, Nigeria can move towards a more inclusive and accountable democratic system.
In summary, Mr Femi Falana’s keynote address highlighted the challenges facing Nigerian democracy, including the rise of plutocracy, low voter turnout, logistical problems during elections, insecurity, and lack of accessibility for marginalized groups. He called upon the NBA to advocate for electoral reforms, convene a national summit, and collaborate with the National Assembly to institutionalize credible elections. His plea for mass-based organizations to engage citizens in the democratic process emphasized the importance of collective action in shaping the future of Nigerian democracy.
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Politics
African Union Takes Action: Republic of Niger Suspended Amidst Political Unrest
In a decisive move that reverberated across the continent, the African Union (AU) announced the suspension of the Republic of Niger from its membership ranks.
This momentous decision was unveiled during the African Union’s Peace and Security Council meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday, August 22.
African Union:Picture Source- Pinterest
The suspension stems from the recent political turmoil that engulfed the nation, with the African Union pointing to the coup orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani on Wednesday, July 26. As part of a series of sanctions imposed on the francophone West African country, the Republic of Niger faced the repercussions of its internal upheaval.
The African Union’s stance was uncompromising, as it made it clear that Western nations seeking to meddle in African affairs should refrain from interfering. This firm message was directed from the heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where the AU’s call for autonomy echoed loudly.
The events leading up to Niger’s suspension unfolded against a backdrop of political uncertainty and unrest. The coup in Niger, orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, prompted the Afican Union to take action. Their decision to suspend Niger was not taken lightly and was ratified during the Peace and Security Council meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on August 22.
The aftermath of the military takeover in left President Mohamed Bazoum in captivity, held under the close watch of the juntas in Niger. Despite international pressure, the release of the president and his family remains elusive. This tense situation compelled the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to intervene, imposing sanctions on Niger and establishing a deadline for the initiation of military intervention by the sub-regional body’s standby forces.
The suspension of the Republic of Niger from the African Union serves as a stark reminder of the continent’s commitment to upholding stability and safeguarding democratic governance. The swift response underscores the African Union’s dedication to maintaining order and security within its member states, sending a resounding message to the global community about the importance of respecting Africa’s sovereignty.
Politics
Peter Obi: “I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria”
In a recent tweet that has caught the attention of many, @MissPearls shares an inspiring declaration made by former Anambra state governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. According to @MissPearls, Peter Obi proclaimed, “I campaigned for Presidency because I can say it any day, I Will SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF NIGERIA. All these confusion everywhere can BE SOLVED, and I am PREPARED for it”

Peter Obi’s bid for the presidency in the recent elections stirred considerable excitement and garnered support from diverse quarters, particularly the youth demographic. The former governor is known for his progressive ideas and pragmatic approach to governance, which resonated with many Nigerians who sought change and effective solutions to the country’s myriad challenges.
Despite his extensive support and well-articulated vision, Peter Obi’s presidential ambitions faced formidable opponents in the election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released results that placed him behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who emerged as the winner, and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who came second. However, these results were met with skepticism due to apparent electoral irregularities that marred the integrity of the process.
In response to the controversial election outcome, both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar filed legal challenges against the INEC’s declaration. This move underscores their commitment to upholding the democratic process and ensuring that the voice of the electorate is accurately reflected. As the election Tribunal Judges prepare to deliver their verdict, Nigeria watches with bated breath, eager to witness justice being served.
Meanwhile, the administration of Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken significant policy actions since assuming office. The removal of fuel subsidies and the decision to float the Naira have triggered mixed reactions across the nation. While these measures may be intended to foster economic stability and growth, the immediate consequences have been felt by everyday Nigerians. The cost of living has surged, and the socio-economic effects on the rich and the poor have become more pronounced.
As the Nigerian population navigates these shifts, the aftermath of the election and the ensuing governance strategies offer a critical juncture for evaluating the nation’s trajectory. The voices of discontent, expressed by citizens facing the brunt of these policies, highlight the necessity for leaders to prioritize the well-being of the populace while pursuing economic advancements. It is essential for the government to strike a balance between fiscal prudence and safeguarding the interests of the vulnerable segments of society.
The policy changes implemented by Bola Tinubu have shed light on the delicate balance between progress and the welfare of the people. As the nation waits for the tribunal’s judgment and the dust settles on the recent election, Nigeria stands at a crossroads, with the potential to reshape its future trajectory and address the systemic challenges that have held it back for far too long.
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Politics
Youths in Kano Defy Police Ban to Protest Alleged Tribunal Bribery
Hundreds of determined youths in Kano took to the streets, defying a police ban, to protest what they perceive as attempts to manipulate the state election petition tribunal. This incident unfolded against the backdrop of a ban on protests by the Commissioner of Police, Usuani Gumel, following revelations of alleged plots to obstruct justice through financial inducement in legal proceedings.

The rally, which unfolded outside the state government house, saw impassioned youths brandishing placards with messages that underscored their commitment to justice and the integrity of the electoral process. Their actions were sparked by concerns over an alleged plan to bribe the state election petition tribunal, casting a shadow over the fairness of the process.
The ban on protests was issued in response to recent revelations made by Justice Flora Azinge, who unveiled purported schemes by lawyers to disrupt the course of justice through financial incentives. The Commissioner of Police cited “confirmatory intelligence products” as the basis for this decision, leaving a contentious atmosphere surrounding the freedom of assembly and the right to peaceful protest.
This ban, however, failed to deter the resolute youths who carried a variety of placards conveying their strong stance against corruption, manipulation, and injustice. The slogans they chanted resonated with their determination to safeguard the sanctity of the electoral process and uphold transparency in governance.
Among the messages displayed, one placard caught the eye with its direct callout: “Gandollar, stop spoiling the name of Tinubu.” This highlights the allegation that financial impropriety is tainting the reputation of key political figures.
In a video circulated online, the enthusiastic protesters chanted slogans that echoed their deep-seated concerns. Chants of “No to corruption,” “No to injustice,” and “No to manipulation” reverberated through the crowd, embodying the youth’s unwavering commitment to fair and accountable governance.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf praised the peaceful conduct of the protesters and assured them that their concerns would be relayed to President Bola Tinubu. This gesture recognizes the role of the youth in shaping political discourse and underscores the importance of their voices in the pursuit of a just society.
In conclusion, the youths in Kano have seized the moment to voice their concerns and demands for an unbiased electoral process. Their defiance of the police ban serves as a reminder that public sentiment cannot be easily suppressed. As this incident unfolds, it raises important questions about the delicate balance between freedom of assembly, legitimate protest, and maintaining public order. It also underscores the critical role of the youth in shaping the political landscape and demanding accountability from their leaders.
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