As Oxygen Of Nigeria’s Democratic System, Political Parties Should Practise Internal Democracy, Says Yakubu

By Nathaniel Gana and Dominic James

Friday 31st January 2025

Nigeria’s registered political parties have been described as the “oxygen” of its democratic system due to the recognition and responsibilities bestowed on them by the 1999 Constitution.

According to Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), who made the description, no Nigerian can participate in any national, state, or Federal Capital Territory (FCT) election in the country unless he is a member of and sponsored by a political party.

The occasion was the launching of a book titled “100 Years of Political Parties Evolution in Nigeria”, with the theme – The Imperative of Nigeria’s Political Stability: Issues and Solution,” which took place at the Abuja Continental Hotel on Thursday 30th January. It was organised by Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC).

Represented by the Chairman,  Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC) of INEC, Mr Sam Olumekun mni, Prof Yakubu commended IPAC for publishing the book, which “is not only a celebration of our political journey, but also a profund contribution to the discourse in democratic consolidation in Nigeria.”

The INEC Chairman seized the opportunity to appeal to political parties to ensure that they conduct their activities in accordance with the electoral legal framework – the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act 2022 and the INEC Regulations and Guidelines.

He said: “Over the years, INEC has enjoyed a robust and mutually beneficial collaboration with IPAC. Political parties form the cornerstone of a democratic society unlike any other institution in a democracy. Parties aggregate and represent social interests and provide a structure for political participation. As an umbrella body for all registered political parties, IPAC has played a crucial role in fostering dialogue between political parties and the Commission, ensuring a more inclusive electoral process. This partnership is committed to promoting adherence to democratic principles, improving election management and strengthening our collective resolve to deepen democracy in Nigeria.”

The INEC Chairman stressed the importance of credible primary elections, stating that they are the foundation upon which credible general elections are built. He expressed concern over instances where a lack of internal democracy within parties had led to disputes and disruptions. “A democratic society begins with democratic political parties,” he asserted, urging parties to strengthen their internal governance mechanisms and ensure transparent, fair, and credible primaries. He called on parties to invest in building strong, law-abiding institutions with distinct ideological leanings.

Prof. Yakubu also addressed the need for continuous electoral reforms to enhance the integrity of elections and address emerging challenges. He announced that INEC is consulting with the National Assembly Committee on Electoral Matters to organise a retreat to discuss areas requiring urgent reforms.

He emphasised that electoral reform is a collective responsibility, calling on political parties, civil society organisations, and all Nigerians to support necessary legislative amendments actively. “I, therefore, challenge IPAC and all political actors here today to champion these reforms,” he urged.

The INEC Chairman further called for sustained engagement and collaboration among all electoral stakeholders, including adherence to constitutional provisions, guidelines, and regulations for political parties. He stressed the importance of result-oriented voter education and constructive dialogue.

In his remarks, former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, lauded IPAC for its foresight in documenting the historic milestone. He emphasised the book’s significance, marking 102 years of political party formation in Nigeria and 26 years of uninterrupted democratic rule – the most extended period of constitutional governance since independence. 

General Abubakar expressed pride in his government’s role in ushering in the current democratic era, highlighting the importance of patriotic and resolute leadership in building strong democratic structures.

He noted that despite past challenges, democracy has taken root in Nigeria, with no substitute for civil rule. He acknowledged the ongoing effort to amend the Constitution and Electoral Act, aimed at rectifying flaws in the electoral process and entrenching democratic ideals.

The elder statesman expressed confidence that the various efforts, combined with the knowledge gained from the book and the deliberations at the launch, would pave the way for sustainable democracy and development in the country. He urged attendees to consider past practices in party democracy that are currently being downplayed, such as the supremacy of party leadership, adherence to party manifestoes, and the formation of parties based on ideology.

The former Head of State reiterated the importance of nurturing and watering the “tree of democracy,” emphasising that it has been tested and shaken but has ultimately survived due to the citizens’ belief and resilience in representative governance. He called upon IPAC to explore political parties’ development priorities to consolidate the nation’s democracy and ensure a conducive environment for successful elections and political stability, aligning with IPAC’s mandate.