With the Ondo State election approaching, tensions are high as citizens and political stakeholders alike prepare for a race that could shape the state’s future. Ondo has long been known for its electoral dynamism there’s no longstanding ruling party here, and it was the first state in Nigeria where the Labour Party won a gubernatorial election. In any case, recent reports of internal conflicts within the All Progressives Congress (APC), as well as allegations regarding the impartiality of the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), have raised concerns about the integrity of the upcoming election. The APC is reportedly divided, with members opposing their own candidate, while PDP candidate Seyi Makinde and others have questioned the REC’s state of origin as a factor that could deter a free and fair election. Although APC’s publicity secretary, Alex Kalejaiye, rebutted the claim, these controversies are sowing doubt among voters.
Democracy, often defined as “government of the people, by the people, and for the people,” seems to have lost its essence in Nigeria. While democracy should empower citizens to vote for leaders whose visions align with theirs, many Nigerians feel their vote does not count as electoral rigging and corruption have become disturbingly common.
Elections are not merely events held every few years; they are the cornerstone of democratic governance, providing citizens with an essential avenue to hold their leaders accountable. However, the integrity of Nigeria’s elections is frequently compromised by forms of electoral corruption that undermine public trust and hinder democratic progress.
As a former U.S. president once said, corruption is a “canker-worm” that has eaten deep into Nigerian society. This entrenched issue makes it difficult for citizens to advocate for change, as those who protest against corruption sometimes face dire consequences. Electoral corruption in Nigeria includes practices such as vote-buying, voter intimidation, manipulation of electoral rolls, and even violence, all of which erode the foundation of a fair democratic process.
For years, Nigerians have faulted INEC for not conducting fair elections. The recent allegations in Ondo State may exacerbate public doubts about the electoral process and further erode faith in the legal framework that should protect Nigeria’s democracy.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s journey toward a fully functioning democracy is an ongoing struggle. Without genuine reform to enhance transparency, accountability, and fairness in the electoral process, many Nigerians may continue to feel that true democracy remains out of reach. Only through collective commitment to these values can Nigeria reclaim the essence of democracy and restore public confidence in a government that truly serves the people.
