Advocating for a Collegiate Electoral System in Nigeria
Adeseye Ogunlewe advocates for a collegiate electoral system to reduce election costs in Nigeria, warning against creating more states under the rigid 1999 constitution. He emphasizes the importance of reform, youth development, and unity for political progress while addressing the challenges of current legislative practices.
Adeseye Ogunlewe, a former senator and member of the All Progressives Congress, asserts that creating additional states in Nigeria is futile due to the constraints of the 1999 constitution. He advocates for electoral reform to address the exorbitant costs associated with current elections in Nigeria, which he describes as “unimaginable.” Ogunlewe emphasizes the need for structural changes and the introduction of a collegiate electoral system to streamline the election process.
On the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Ogunlewe refrains from commenting, noting that the issue is before the courts. He suggests that suspensions in the legislature should perhaps be more considered, as demonstrated by prior cases that were resolved judicially. Ultimately, he underscores the importance of the judiciary in such matters.
Regarding the National Assembly’s perceived rubber-stamping role, Ogunlewe suggests that collaboration with the executive can be beneficial for governance. He sees no problem with the ruling party supporting the executive branch, asserting that internal conflicts should be resolved within the party framework.
The senator expressed a belief in maintaining a bicameral legislature due to Nigeria’s diversity, which he argues necessitates broad representation. As discussions about constitutional amendments arise, he recognizes the difficulty of enacting substantial changes, advocating instead for incremental amendments.
Ogunlewe has also expressed the need for electoral reform, proposing a collegiate system whereby individuals aspiring to high office would first be elected to the legislature. This approach is posited to reduce electoral costs significantly. He clarifies that this does not require a return to a parliamentary system, but rather a modification of how elections are conducted.
As for the current state of Nigerian democracy, Ogunlewe believes it is maturing, acknowledging that the evolution of political ideologies will take time. He suggests that past administrations have laid a foundation for gradual progress and improvement in the sector.
On the topic of state creation, he asserts that existing frameworks, such as regional commissions, might serve Nigeria better than the pursuit of new states, which he believes is impractical given constitutional limitations. Instead of pursuing new states, he argues for focusing on improving governance through healthy regional frameworks.
Ogunlewe emphasizes the importance of investing in Nigeria’s youth as a means to combat economic issues and enhance national security. He suggests that developing educational policies to train skilled professionals will foster a knowledge-based economy, which is crucial in addressing crime related to poverty.
In response to sentiments of disunity within Nigeria, Ogunlewe stresses the need for collective progress. He expresses optimism about future political mobilization in support of the current leadership, indicating a commitment to unite efforts to bolster electoral support.
Adeseye Ogunlewe’s insights reveal the significant challenges faced in Nigeria’s political landscape, specifically regarding electoral costs and the rigidity of the constitution. Advocating for a collegiate system of election to lower expenses, he highlights the need for ongoing reforms to enhance governance. Additionally, his focus on leveraging Nigeria’s youth potential underscores the interplay between education, economy, and national security. Ogunlewe emphasizes unity for national advancement amidst calls for regional representation and state creation.
Original Source: businessday.ng
