By Michael Tidi

The Electoral Act 2022 marked a significant step toward ensuring a more transparent and accountable electoral process in our democracy. However, as we have seen in recent political cycles, certain provisions within the Act may inadvertently undermine the core of democratic representation. A primary concern is the way political primaries are conducted, often resulting in the nomination of leaders by a small, unrepresentative group. Having personally experienced the flaws of this system in the last election, I feel compelled to advocate for amendments to the Electoral Act 2022 to ensure that political primaries genuinely reflect the will of the broader electorate.

Political primaries are vital for selecting candidates who will represent political parties in general elections. Ideally, these primaries should be inclusive, providing an opportunity for a wide range of party members to engage in the nomination process. However, the current framework often results in situations where a select few individuals-usually with vested interests-hold disproportionate power in determining who runs for office. This system disenfranchises the majority of party members and raises questions about the legitimacy of candidates who emerge from such processes.

When primaries are controlled by a small group of individuals, several risks emerge. Candidates selected by a narrow faction may not accurately reflect the views and needs of the broader electorate. This disconnect between elected officials and their constituents can erode public trust in the political system. A limited selection process can fuel internal divisions within political parties, as competing factions vie for control over nominations. This focus on internal power struggles can overshadow addressing critical issues that affect the public. Furthermore, when citizens perceive their voices are excluded from the nomination process, they may disengage from the electoral system, leading to lower voter turnout and diminished participation in future elections.

Having been directly impacted by the current primary system in the last election, I witnessed how a small group of individuals could manipulate the outcome of the nomination process, sidelining the voices of many dedicated party members. This experience highlighted the urgent need for reform. It is disheartening to see passionate, capable individuals overlooked simply because they do not align with the interests of a select few. This not only stifles diversity within our political landscape but also weakens the overall quality of leadership available to the electorate.

Although the Electoral Act 2022 was amended by the previous National Assembly, former President Muhammadu Buhari withheld assent to the bill. It is clear that further refinements are needed. I urge the 10th National Assembly to revisit this important legislation, refine its provisions, and make the necessary adjustments to improve its effectiveness. With President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to democratic principles, the current Assembly has a unique opportunity to champion reforms that will strengthen our democracy. By presenting a revised version of the Electoral Act to him, lawmakers can play a pivotal role in ensuring that the nomination process is fair and inclusive, thereby restoring public trust in our electoral system.

To address these concerns, I propose the following amendments to the Electoral Act 2022. Measures that allow broader participation in the nomination process, such as open primaries or giving a larger segment of party members the ability to vote, will ensure that candidates are more representative of the electorate. Establishing clear and transparent guidelines for candidate selection will help rebuild trust in the electoral system. This includes making the criteria for nominations public and ensuring that all party members have access to information about the candidates. 

•Tidi, a lawyer and public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja.