*Perspective*

By George Ozalla

Nigeria’s electoral system is a farce, a mere spectacle designed to legitimize the rule of the powerful and wealthy. Governors and executives wield their power to impose their preferred candidates on the people in their respective domains, while voters, impoverished in both mind and body, succumb to vote-buying and manipulation. The recent Anambra State by-election and indeed some others in different parts of Nigeria are stark reminder of the rot that has set in.

The imposition of candidates has become a norm in Nigerian politics. Those in power use their positions to dictate who succeeds them or who they plant as puppets in various vacant positions, often prioritizing their interests over the people’s. This undemocratic practice undermines the electoral process, leaving voters with little or no say in who represents them.

Vote-buying has also become a cancer in Nigerian elections. Politicians with deep pockets buy their way into office, while voters, desperate for handouts, sell their votes. This toxic dynamic undermines the electoral process, rendering it meaningless. The poor and vulnerable are exploited, their votes traded for paltry sums.

The Nigerian voter is often portrayed as weak and helpless. Impoverished and disenfranchised, they are susceptible to manipulation. Vote-buying and intimidation are common tactics used to influence their decisions. The result is a government that does not represent the people’s will.

The real issue is not just the imposition of candidates or vote-buying; it is the priorities of our leaders. A sitting Governor would prefer to fail woefully in governance, neglecting critical infrastructure, healthcare, and education, than to fail in getting their preferred candidate to succeed them in office. This obsession with power, ego and control is the root of our problems.

The consequences of this system are dire. Nigeria is plagued by poor governance, underdevelopment, and a lack of accountability. The people suffer, while those in power savour the benefits. It is time for a real change.

Concerned citizens, the people, must wake up from their slumber. They must demand change, insist on good governance, and hold their leaders accountable. The power to effect change lies within all of us. We must use our voices, our votes, and our collective strength to shape a better future.

It is time to put the people first. We need leaders who will prioritize good governance, performance, and the welfare of citizens. We need a system that empowers voters, not one that manipulates them.

The Anambra State by-election and some others must serve as a wake-up call. It is time to confront the harsh realities of our electoral system. We must prioritize transparency, accountability, and allow the people’s will to prevail. Only then can we build a Nigeria that truly represents its citizens.

Great German Lutheran pastor and theologian that fearlessly challenged Nazi regime, Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “The test of the morality of a society is what it does for its children.” It is time for Nigeria to pass the test. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to create a better Nigeria.

The time for genuine change is now. Let us rise up and reclaim our democracy. Let us make our voices heard and demand a government that truly represents us. We can do better. We must do better and ensure that our votes count.

Nigeria’s electoral system is broken. It is time to fix it. We need a system that recognizes the power that lies with the people, not just the powerful. We need leaders who will serve the people, not just themselves.

Let us join hands to create a Nigeria that is truly democratic, truly just, and truly equitable for all. The future is in our hands. Certainly, we can shape it together.

We must recognize that the struggle for a better Nigeria is ongoing. It requires persistence, determination, and collective action. We must continue to demand good governance, accountability, and transparency from our leaders. We must support initiatives that promote democracy and the rule of law.

The journey to a better Nigeria won’t be easy, but it is necessary. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and future generations to get it right. May we rise up and take control of our destiny. May we build a Nigeria that is truly worthy of our aspirations. The time for real change is now!

*Publisher & Editor-in-Chief of NEWSCOUNT..