Dr. Ossai Proposes Key Changes for Fairer Elections and Transparent Governance
On an edition of Electoral Reform Hour, RT Hon Dr. Ossai Nicholas Ossai, former member of the House of Representatives for the Ndokwa/Ukwuani Federal Constituency in Delta State, offered a thorough examination of electoral reforms and their implications for Nigeria’s democratic consolidation. With a Doctorate in Public Administration and a deep background in public service, Dr. Ossai provided a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Nigeria’s democracy.
Dr. Ossai explored the historical context of Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, highlighting the persistent issues of ethnicity, religion, and security that continue to impede democratic engagement and governance. He contrasted these challenges with practices in more established democracies, such as the United States, where ethnicity and religion are less influential in political processes.
Addressing governance challenges, Dr. Ossai identified corruption, lack of judicial independence, and intense political competition as significant barriers. He criticized the current mindset of some Nigerian leaders, who prioritize personal gain over public service. Dr. Ossai advocated for a cultural shift towards a consensus-driven approach and emphasized the importance of integrity in governance.
Dr. Ossai proposed several key reforms to address these issues. He suggested that the appointment process for national commissioners and the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should be based on merit and independently reviewed, rather than being solely at the discretion of the President. This reform aims to enhance transparency and effectiveness in electoral management.

He also highlighted the need for stronger internal democracy within political parties and the introduction of independent candidacy. According to Dr. Ossai, improving internal democratic practices within parties is crucial for fair representation, while allowing independent candidates could diversify the political landscape and promote accountability.
In terms of electoral transparency, Dr. Ossai proposed including candidate photographs on ballots to assist voters in making informed decisions, especially in areas where party logos might be unfamiliar. He also recommended establishing clear timelines for resolving pre-election disputes to ensure a smoother electoral process. Campaign finance was another area of concern for Dr. Ossai. He called for stricter oversight and accountability measures to ensure proper use of campaign funds and to prevent corruption. While expressing skepticism about early voting due to potential manipulation and insufficient enforcement of existing laws, Dr. Ossai stressed the importance of comprehensive reform and effective oversight before considering such measures.
He’s insights underscore the need for addressing systemic issues and enacting specific legislative changes to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions. His proposals for merit-based appointments, enhanced internal party democracy, and improved transparency aim to foster a more robust and participatory democratic process in Nigeria.