Stakeholders have been called upon to be vigilant in guarding Nigeria’s democracy.
The plea was made at a book launch titled; “The 2023 elections in Nigeria, Actors, Intrigues, Winners,” in Abuja.
The book authors, Theophilus Boufini et al, said “Our democracy is a dynamic entity that requires constant vigilance, adaptability, and improvement.”
We must strive for a democracy that is inclusive, transparent, and responsive to the needs of the people.”
The book prologue shows an expose into the intricacies of the Nigerian electoral process, as it also serves as a testament to the progress, and the challenges made in the country’s democracy.
The book also interrogated the processes, actions, and outcomes during the 2023 general elections, as well as the recently concluded off-cycle elections.
The authors described election as “It is the mechanism through which the voice of the people is heard, and their will is translated into governance.
“This book serves as a mirror reflecting the highs and lows, the successes, and the areas where we still have work to do in perfecting our electoral system.
“In the pages of this book, you will find narratives that span over two decades, capturing the essence of our democratic journey and its travails.
From the struggles of the early years of the fourth republic to the milestones achieved in recent times, each chapter unravels a piece of our collective history.”
It further called on stakeholders to “strive for a democracy that is inclusive, transparent, and responsive to the needs of the people.”
This is as it went on to provide such recommendations as “Strengthening of democratic institutions, Introduction of the Electoral College, Diaspora voting, Electronic Voting, Independent candidacy, Lengthy electoral adjudication process, Prosecution of election offenders, Revisiting of the Uwais Report on Electoral Reforms, and the ‘Judicialization’ of ElectionsIn conclusion.”
They called on more collaboration “towards building a stronger and more resilient democratic foundation for Nigeria.”