The National Assembly Joint Committee on Electoral Matters has been tasked by Oyo State Governor Engr ‘Seyi Makinde with suggesting changes that will fortify democracy and bring the nation together.
The governor stated that Nigerians ought to be encouraged to engage in and have faith in their country’s democracy.
He made this remark on Friday when hosting federal legislators who were in Oyo State to consult with stakeholders on proposed constitution amendments.
“I have seen people who were given the opportunity to change the trajectory of the nation but because of selfishness and personal interest they missed the road. Who knows who is going to be here tomorrow? Whatever you do, do it in the wider interest of the country; the unity of Nigeria is sacrosanct. A united Nigeria is the route to go,” Makinde said, while encouraging them to be open-minded about their task.
In order to end the practice of suing after each election cycle, he continued, the country must make sure that the results of elections fairly represent the desires of the electorate.
“Why do people go to court after an election? It is because they feel cheated. If you open up the space and you have transparency, nobody will go to court. Now that our democracy seems to be holding, because since independence this is our longest democratic experience, it is our responsibility as leaders to deepen the democracy.”
He applauded the committee for taking the time to hear from women and young people, noting that young people need to be inspired to play important roles in determining the direction of the nation.
He informed the committee that the success of the committee will impact the country’s democratic experience and pledged the administration’s support for it.
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