A Nigerian journalist has described the delegates’ system of political parties in the country as ‘witchcraft’ to true democracy.
Mr. Aniekan Udofia, Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Governorship Debate 2023, stated this Tuesday in Comfort FM, Uyo during an enlightenment political programme.
The debate is organised by Akwa Ibom Nigeria Union of Journalists Political Committee and would be aired by more than six radio stations and Spectrum TV in the state.
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Udofia noted that the system allows a few privileged party members to select or choose candidates of their choice to the detriment of the larger majority.
According to him, the Electoral Act 2022 provides for direct and indirect primaries in the election of candidates, but the politicians adopted indirect primary knowing that one favours them.
He said during the recent concluded Presidential election primaries, some presidential aspirants paid $25, 000 to a delegate while some delegates returned from Abuja to do empowerment scheme for their constituents at home.
‘‘Since the delegates returned as multimillionaires then, it would be proper for each voter in Nigeria to collect $50,000 during the elections; after all, it may not be possible for the voters to collect any other amount during the tenure of any winner,’’ he said.
The chairman alleged that Nigerian politicians have weaponised poverty making many in the local communities wretched. ‘‘In fact, in some communities, there is no electricity supply, no water supply or clinic. Even some roads are cut off putting how many villagers helpless and in precarious situation.’’
He wondered how most people would overcome the temptation of money politics when they do not have any money in their pockets.
Udofia said he would not encourage money politics in his voting unit as he would encourage the people to their conscience not because of money or any other inducement.
On the forthcoming governorship debate billed for January 29 at Le Meridien Hotels and Golf Resort, Uyo, he announced that six political parties would participate, dispelling the notion ‘‘Talk is cheap’’ by some people as untrue.
African Action Congress (AAC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), All Progressives Congress (APC), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Young Progressives Party (YPP).
He said since APC case is still in the court, the governorship candidate will only attend if the court rules over the matter.
According to him, talk is not cheap because once a person or an aspirant is unable to articulate his views, he would not be able to implement if elected into office.
He cited that ex-US President Barack Obama clearly articulated his views and policies during National convention of Democratic Party but could also do same when he was elected into office as the country’s number one citizen.
