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In a recent discussion on Electoral Reform Hour, Mrs Ene Ede and Comrade Babatunde Oluajo shared their perspectives on Nigeria’s electoral system. Drawing from their extensive experience in advocacy and governance, they highlighted key challenges and proposed solutions to promote reforms and greater inclusion, particularly for women in politics.

Mrs Ene Ede, a gender advisor at Search for Common Grounds and a former political aspirant, spoke passionately about her personal journey into the political arena. She recounted the significant barriers she faced, including exclusionary practices within political parties, which she described as a “gender-blind boys’ club.” Mrs Ede  emphasized the lack of internal democracy in party structures and noted that aspiring candidates are met with heavy resistance. “The system is not inclusive; it’s so resistant that it crushes those who try to challenge it,” she said. She underscored the critical role of courage, resources, and mentorship in empowering women to participate in politics.

Reflecting on broader challenges, Mrs Ede  highlighted the need for a culture of accountability and trust in governance. She lamented the gap between Nigeria’s national ethics, as enshrined in its constitution, and the behavior of its leaders. She called for greater investment in voter education and behavioral change initiatives, citing the National Orientation Agency’s potential to lead this effort if adequately funded.

Comrade Babatunde Oluajo, a development practitioner and governance expert, expanded on the conversation by critiquing Nigeria’s electoral process. Drawing from his experience as a party organizer and candidate, he highlighted the need for a multi-stakeholder electoral body to ensure fairness and inclusivity. “You cannot have an electoral body controlled by one political party and expect impartiality,” he asserted. He proposed that civil society, media, youth, and women’s groups be integrated into the electoral commission to foster a sense of collective responsibility.

Comrade Oluajo also championed independent candidacy as a critical reform, arguing that it would allow individuals with integrity to contest elections without navigating the restrictive party system. “We need to create opportunities for people with genuine intent and strong track records to participate in governance,” he said. He also called for technological innovations to address logistical challenges, including early voting for emergency workers and those involved in election management.

The discussion did not shy away from historical context.  Comrade Oluajo highlighted the roles women played in Nigeria’s pre-colonial and colonial eras, emphasizing their leadership and organizational prowess. He urged a return to those values, challenging modern societal norms that have relegated women’s contributions to the background.

Both advocates agreed on the urgent need to revitalize Nigeria’s political landscape through inclusive policies, robust accountability mechanisms, and behavioral reforms. They called for the implementation of the Uwais Commission recommendations, which advocate for multi-stakeholder electoral commissions and enhanced internal democracy within political parties.

As Nigeria grapples with these challenges, the voices of advocates like Mrs Ede and  Comrade Oluajo serve as a reminder of the transformative potential of inclusive governance. Mrs  Ede concluded on a hopeful note, stating, “Leadership should not be about lording over the people, but about serving them. Together, we can build a democratic system that reflects the aspirations of all Nigerians.”