Editorial
Lessons From UK Polls
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The United Kingdom’s general election of July 4 marks a turning point in the nation’s political land-
scape. It highlights the resilience of its democratic traditions. The peaceful transition of power from Rishi Sunak to Keir Starmer reflects the strength of Britain’s political institutions and the electorate’s ability to effect change.
Moreover, the landslide victory of the Labour Party signifies a potential shift in the country’s ideological trajectory, prompting a reevaluation of its political, economic, and social future. As the nation navigates this pivotal moment, the smoothness of this transition serves as a testament to the stability and adaptability of Britain’s democratic infrastructure.
One of the most striking aspects of the new cabinet is the representation of women, with 11 out of 19 cabinet members being female. This stands in contrast to the situation in Nigeria, where women are severely underrepresented in government, particularly in the Northern states where female participation in politics is almost non-existent. The success of these women in the British political arena serves as a quintessential example for Nigeria, where patriarchy still holds sway and gender equality in politics remains a distant dream.
Eight Nigerian-Britons emerged victorious in the parliamentary elections, garnering adulation from Nigerians both at home and abroad. Their success highlights the importance of merit-based selection in politics, as each Member of Parliament (MP) won their seat on the basis of their personal qualifications and achievements. Unlike in Nigeria, where political appointments are often influenced by money, party leaders, and other extraneous factors, the British system values the power of the voter and respects the rights of every citizen to participate in the democratic process.
The diverse backgrounds and professional expertise of the Nigerian-British MPs further underscore the importance of competence and performance in politics. These individuals, ranging from engineers to lawyers, have earned their seats through hard work and dedication, rather than through political connections or nepotism. Their success should serve as a wake-up call to the Nigerian political system, where the average age of politicians is over 60 and where professional qualifications are often overshadowed by tribal and religious affiliations.
A veteran politician and one of the leading Nigerian-British MPs, Kemi Badenoch, exemplifies the success that can be achieved through hard work and dedication. Despite the challenges faced by her party in the recent election, Badenoch was re-elected on the basis of her qualifications and track record in office. Her appointment as Secretary of State for the Department for Business and Trade is a testament to her capabilities and leadership skills.
The current political climate in Nigeria stands in sharp contrast to the achievements of Nigerian-British professionals in the political sphere. Through their perseverance, commitment, and professional knowledge, Taiwo Owatemi, Chi Onwurah, Kate Osamor, Bayo Alaba, Josh Babarinde, Florence Eshalomi, Helen Grant, and Kemi Badenoch have all been elected to the legislature. This is in contradistinction to the state of affairs in Nigeria, where many politicians are viewed as “professional politicians” who lack distinguishable credentials or sources of income.
Nigeria’s electoral system is radically different from that of Britain, where candidates accept the results of the poll without filing lawsuits. Britain’s electoral procedure is also transparent and effective. But in Nigeria, courts are routinely called upon to resolve electoral disputes since elections are frequently tainted by violence, corruption, and legal problems. Nigeria’s electoral process is not credible due to the absence of intra-party democracy and the involvement of cronies and godfathers.
While the political achievements of the elected Nigerians are commendable, they also serve as a sobering reminder of the weaknesses in our democratic system. After all, competence and performance ought to be the main determinants of electoral success, not religious and tribal affinities as they frequently are in Nigeria. The achievements of these Nigerian-Britons should compel a reassessment of Nigeria’s political environment, highlighting the necessity of a more efficient and responsible democratic system.
Unfortunately, the high rate of litigation in Nigeria’s elections threatens the country’s democratic process, creating tension and uncertainty from pre-election disputes to post-election challenges. This undermines voter choices and trust in the electoral system, raising concerns about the judiciary’s independence. Electoral reforms promoting transparency, accountability, and timely dispute resolution outside the courts are needed to strengthen democracy in Nigeria.
Our nation’s democracy is at a critical point and must evolve to survive. We need to shift away from costly campaigns and prioritise electoral integrity by safeguarding voter rights and promoting transparency. By addressing key national issues, Nigerian politics can become more sustainable and effective. These reforms are essential for our nation to progress towards a more inclusive and representative government.
Nigeria and other countries grappling with democratic government ought to take note of the Nigerian-British MPs’ accomplishments. Political leaders must be held responsible for their acts, and citizenship entails both rights and obligations. To be a really democratic society, where the power of the vote is honoured and protected, a society should be based on competence, performance, and transparency. Then and only then, regardless of origin or background, can we aspire to create a brighter future for every citizen.
Editorial
Ugochinyere’s Allegation, Time For PDP To Act
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Some opposition lawmakers, under the aegis of the Coalition for United Political Parties (CUPP), recently raised an alarm over a renewed plot by the 27 lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The legislators had defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) last December.
The spokesman of the coalition, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, made this claim during a press briefing held in the National Assembly, Abuja. He revealed some leaked court documents signed by the PDP Acting Chairman, Illiya Umar Damagun, and the PDP Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, to aid the pro-Wike APC interest against a party in Rivers State and to assist in their attempt to remove Governor Fubara from office.
Speaking during the media chat, Hon. Ugochinyere said: “The opposition lawmakers coalition under the main opposition coalition umbrella, the CUPP, today raised serious allegations against the party’s Acting National Chairman, Mr Umar Damagum, and National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu.
“The lawmakers accused the two party leaders of a covert plot to sabotage the PDP’s interests in an ongoing legal battle involving defected former members of the Rivers State House of Assembly which is part of a desperate and shameful effort to betray their party, destroy all legal efforts and aid the pro-Wike APC elements have the legal backing to attempt their impossible plot of removing the PDP government led by Gov. Fubara out of office.”
He further claimed that the national chairman of the PDP, along with the secretary, shamefully opposed the national legal adviser’s effort to neutralise and prevent the pro-Wike dismissed APC lawmakers from jeopardising the interests of the PDP. The chairman and secretary sought to support the pro-Wike APC lawmakers who were dismissed, hoping to help them regain their lost legitimacy and make another attempt to remove their party’s governor.
No doubt, Ugochinyere’s accusation carries significant weight and raises serious concerns that warrant a thorough investigation to determine its truthfulness. It is particularly disheartening and unfortunate that such assertions are directed at the individuals holding the two highest offices in the party, as this tarnishes the integrity of the institutions they represent. The gravity of the troubling situation cannot be overstated.
We unequivocally denounce the actions of the Chairman and Secretary of the main opposition party in their purported involvement in a plot to impeach the Rivers State governor. It is shocking to witness such a betrayal of trust and blatant disregard for a dedicated party member. The governor has been tirelessly working to uplift the lives of his people and promote development in the state, only to face opposition from within his political party.
It is deeply disappointing to witness the leadership of a major political party prioritise the interests of a single individual over the well-being of the people they were elected to serve. Governor Fubara has been a beacon of hope for the PDP and residents of Rivers State, and his dedication to good governance should be celebrated and supported, not undermined by those within his party. The move to impeach him reeks of political opportunism and a lack of regard for party commitment and loyalty.
Though the PDP Governors Forum and the Board of Trustees (BOT) have condemned the move to unseat Fubara, however, to truly safeguard democracy and party dignity, they must do more than offer solidarity. They must proactively mobilise their party machinery and thwart the nefarious plans of those seeking to subvert the party’s interests. They should move against the defected 27 lawmakers and the machinations of the APC. By denying these individuals a platform within the PDP, both organs can effectively neutralise their ability to disrupt the affairs of the once formidable PDP.
Other organs of the party should collaborate and resist the chairman and the secretary. These two officers have caused enough problems for the opposition party and do not deserve to continue in their offices. The current crisis in the PDP is attributable to them and their cohort, former Governor Nyesom Wike. The constant power struggles, lack of respect for party laws, and questionable decision-making have led to a loss of trust and support from party members and the general public. The PDP must take swift action to remove these individuals from their positions to restore unity and credibility within the party.
Stakeholders must take immediate action to prevent the potential demise of the PDP. Allowing the current crisis, fueled by the self-serving actions of the implicated officials, to continue unchecked could lead to irreparable damage. These leaders must prioritise the party’s unity over personal interests. Every member must work to safeguard the PDP’s future and reinforce its role as a vital opposition force. The time for decisive intervention is now; complacency could ultimately seal the party’s fate.
Ugochinyere’s allegations demand a prompt and transparent response from those implicated; silence may be interpreted as tacit admission of guilt. The party organs must act decisively to reclaim their party. It is disheartening to witness a once awe-inspiring political party struggle to present a cohesive front, particularly with the 2027 elections looming. This fragmentation signals a troubling departure from the PDP that Nigerians once revered, raising concerns about its future viability and relevance in a rapidly evolving political landscape. Unity, discipline, and internal democracy are essential for the party’s revival.
Editorial
APP Secretariat Explosion: One Too Many
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Port Harcourt’s tranquility was shattered recently as a deafening blast ripped through the Action People’s Party (APP) secretariat. Dynamite, the suspected explosive, left behind a scene of utter devastation. The once vibrant building lay in ruins, with shattered windows, and debris scattered across the environ. The explosion sent shockwaves, leaving behind a cloud of fear.
While no casualties were immediately reported, the incident has ignited concerns about escalating political violence in the state. The timing of the attack has heightened tensions and raised questions about the motives behind the act. Security agencies are reportedly investigating the incident to bring the perpetrators to justice. The blast occurred amid rumours of a potential defection by Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his supporters to the APP.
This attack underscores the alarming threat to the safety and security of political institutions. The incident demands immediate action to safeguard these vital pillars of democracy. Political parties are essential for the healthy functioning of any society. They provide avenues for citizens to participate in decision-making, represent diverse viewpoints, and hold governments accountable. However, when they are targeted with violence and intimidation, their ability to fulfil these critical functions is severely compromised.
Assaulting political parties not only poses a physical threat to politicians and party members but also undermines public confidence in the electoral process itself. It creates an atmosphere of fear and insecurity that can dissuade individuals from participating in politics and expressing their opinions freely.
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu, has a fundamental responsibility to protect and uphold the rule of law. In light of this attack, the authorities must prioritise the safety of political parties by implementing comprehensive security measures. These include enhanced surveillance, increased police presence, and prompt investigations to deter and apprehend any potential attackers.
Despite the alarming incident, the absence of arrests or prosecutions is deeply concerning. The state police command must assume accountability and enhance its efforts to uphold law and order. Law enforcement capabilities and intelligence gathering should be intensified to pinpoint the whereabouts of the perpetrators. This proactive approach will not only deter future crimes but also restore public confidence in the police’s ability to protect citizens.
Moreover, the police should collaborate with individuals to foster information sharing and strengthen surveillance. Establishing a hotline or anonymous reporting system can facilitate the reporting of suspicious activities, providing vital leads to apprehend the criminals. Community policing initiatives can bridge the gap between residents and law enforcement, promoting a sense of shared responsibility for public safety.
By addressing the shortcomings in law enforcement and implementing proactive measures, the state police command can effectively contain the incident and prevent similar occurrences in the future. The safety of citizens depends on a vigilant and responsive police force that is committed to apprehending criminals. There might be more attacks if the police remain docile.
Those who make inflammatory statements should be invited and interrogated. The silence of the police in the face of a recent inciting statement made by the former Ikwerre Local Government Area Chairman, Mr Samuel Nwanosike, has raised concerns about their impartiality. Nwanosike’s threat to destroy the property of Governor Siminalayi Fubara has gone unaddressed by the police, despite the potential for it to incite violence and destabilise the state.
The failure of the police to prosecute the perpetrator of the bombing at the Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt during a protest march by former Governor Nyesom Wike’s supporters has cast a shadow over their impartiality in the ongoing political crisis in the state. This has encouraged the attack on the party secretariat.
A neutral police force is essential for maintaining peace in a democratic society. Citizens must trust that the police will act without bias, regardless of political affiliations or personal interests. However, the failure to hold accountable those responsible for such a blatant act of aggression undermines public confidence in the force.
We must not tolerate the use of savagery in the pursuit of political goals. Any attempt to silence or intimidate political opponents through fury is a direct assault on the principles of democratic governance. The state has a duty to protect its citizens and ensure that all political activities are conducted in a safe and peaceful manner.
The dynamite attack on the APP secretariat is a wake-up call for all Rivers people and Nigerians. We must recommit ourselves to building a society where political racketeering is unthinkable. If we work together, we can safeguard our democracy and ensure that all citizens can participate in the political process without fear or intimidation.
Editorial
As Rivers LG Election Aproaches…
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Barring any inhibiting circumstances, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) will conduct the state local government election on October 5. Charged with this onerous task, RSIEC must engage in a meticulous orchestration of events, strategies, and implementations to ensure the polls pass off without a hitch. Regrettably, the conspicuous silence and apparent inertia of the electoral body have become sources of consternation for the people.
The success of any election hinges on the groundwork layed before actual polling. Hence, RSIEC must undertake a comprehensive planning. A fastidious approach to voter registration and the maintenance of a credible voter register are fundamental. The commission must ensure that eligible voters are not disenfranchised following administrative oversights or technical glitches. In a healthy democracy, voter engagement is not merely a suggestion but a necessity. It is the lifeblood that sustains the very fabric of a political system.
Central to this engagement is a profound sense of security among voters that their voices will be heard and their choices will be respected. When voters feel secure in their right to vote, they are more likely to participate in the electoral process. Therefore, in the forthcoming local government election, RSIEC must prevent voter suppression and make voters believe that they will not be prevented from casting their ballots.
Additionally, the state electoral commission ought to ramp up voter education programmes. An electorate that is well-educated about the procedural aspects of the voting process is less likely to encounter disenfranchisement because of ignorance or misinformation. Furthermore, the commission must emphasise the importance of non-violence and peaceful conduct during the election period.
Recruitment and thorough training of electoral officers are essential for ensuring a successful election. RSIEC must instil integrity and professionalism in its ad hoc staff, as these individuals play an essential role in upholding the election’s credibility. Equipping them with the necessary skills and ethical guidelines can foster a transparent electoral environment.
The logistical aspect cannot be understated. Proper preparation would involve ensuring the timely distribution of voting materials, functional voting equipment, and the optimal location of polling units. The accessibility of these units for people with disabilities must also be a consideration to enhance inclusiveness in the democratic process.
Election periods are notoriously fraught with tension and Rivers State is no exception, especially in light of the current political crisis. It is non-negotiable that adequate security measures are put in place to forestall any form of electoral violence or malpractice that could jeopardise the probity of the exercise. Collaboration with various security agencies will be momentous. RSIEC must work in concert with the police force, civil defence, and possibly the military, especially in areas identified as hotspots for electoral unrest.
Security personnel deployed for election duties must discharge their responsibilities impartially, without succumbing to the whims and caprices of political actors. Ensuring the sanctity of the ballot must be RSIEC’s cardinal goal. As such, protecting the vote from manipulation – both digitally and physically – becomes imperative. Measures including but not limited to the use of secure ballot boxes, tamper-evident seals, and transparent vote tallying processes should be a part of the commission’s strategy.
Upon the conclusion of voting and counting, the prompt announcement of results will assist in maintaining calm and order. The state electoral body must commit to transparency throughout the entire electoral process. Transparent handling of the election outcomes will boost confidence in the electoral body and decrease the likelihood of disputes. Civil society groups and election monitors could be engaged to ensure credibility.
Nevertheless, it is plausible that disagreements will arise. Thus, the state judicial authorities should begin to set protocols for handling election grievances. Clear guidelines that detail the pathways for legal redress and a commitment to honouring the outcomes of any judicial processes will enhance the plausibility of the electoral process.
Compliance with the state electoral law is obligatory in maintaining the legitimacy of the process. Any deviations from the prescribed procedures and regulations can undermine the validity of the results. Therefore, it is incumbent upon all parties involved to familiarise themselves with the legal framework governing the electoral process and to ensure strict adherence to its provisions to promote an election that truly reflects the will of the people.
All political parties must be treated equally. This could foster an environment of inclusivity. Equal access to information should be guaranteed. This is not merely a procedural necessity; it is a fundamental principle that upholds the integrity of elections. When all political parties are properly informed and engaged, the electoral process becomes more robust, reducing the potential for disputes and fostering a healthier political climate. Ultimately, equitable treatment by the umpire is vital for genuine democratic participation.
The Rivers State Government must give precedence to the adequate allocation of funds necessary for the elections for a smooth and transparent electoral process. Proper financing is necessary not only for logistics support, such as polling station setup and staff training but also for maintaining the integrity of the electoral system and the payment of adhoc staff. Investing in these resources can foster civic participation. Moreover, a well-funded election can help mitigate potential conflicts and irregularities.
Citizens and observers are keeping a careful eye on the polls preparations as they progress. The success of the election could set a positive example for electoral integrity not only in the state but in the country as a whole. RSIEC’s actions will determine if it is merely an administrative body or a true protector of democracy. If the commission focuses on meticulous planning and unwavering dedication, it can make certain that the election sets the bar for future polls and demonstrates the resilience of Nigeria’s democratic system.
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