As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the influence of money in politics remains a pressing concern. Achike Udenwa warns that financial resources enable candidates to buy electoral victories, compromising democratic integrity. Notable issues include corrupt practices among voters and officials, soaring nomination fees, and inadequate enforcement of electoral regulations. Urgent electoral reforms and oversight mechanisms are necessary to address these challenges and enhance democracy in Nigeria.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, concerns about the role of money in democracy have risen significantly. Political maneuvering is rampant as President Bola Tinubu seeks re-election amidst various opposition alliances aimed at unseating him. Unfortunately, the focus on maintaining democratic values seems overshadowed by power struggles, and politicians appear indifferent to necessary electoral reforms.
Former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa recently highlighted the detrimental influence of money politics on free and fair elections. During a discussion on the Edmund Obilo ‘State Affairs’ podcast, he stated that individuals with considerable financial resources have the ability to effectively purchase electoral outcomes. Udenwa expressed, “Unfortunately, our society has grown to such a level where if you say vote for me, I am no longer asking what you can do. If I don’t vote for you, you can buy your way through if you have the right amount of money.” His experience in political office provides credence to these assertions.
Money politics continues to undermine Nigeria’s democratic integrity, evidenced by reports of voters receiving financial incentives in exchange for their votes. The practice known as ‘see and buy’ requires voters to reveal their marked ballots to party agents, who subsequently offer cash or goods as bribes. This corrupt process not only disrupts the election system but promotes unworthy candidates to positions of power.
Moreover, the integrity of the judiciary is compromised as some legal practitioners participate in unethical conduct concerning party primaries and conventions. Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has condemned the purchasing of delegate votes during these important events. Corruption has permeated political processes as delegates reportedly received bribes, including foreign currency, during primaries.
The soaring costs associated with obtaining nomination and expression of interest forms for aspirants pose additional barriers to fair elections. Since the return to democracy in 1999, fees for presidential nomination forms in leading political parties surged by 300 percent from 2015 to 2023. Despite regulations in the Electoral Act 2022 specifying spending limits for candidates, these figures are grossly understated when compared to actual campaign expenditures.
Efforts to prosecute corrupt election officials and INEC staff have seen some success, yet such cases remain far too few to effect meaningful change in the electoral landscape. A Commonwealth Observer Group report following the 2023 Presidential and National Assembly elections emphasized that ongoing electoral reforms have not effectively tackled these persistent issues.
Comparatively, other democratic nations, such as the United States, maintain strict regulations on campaign contribution limits and funding through membership dues, which could serve as a model for Nigeria. Thus, it is essential for the National Assembly to legislate the establishment of an electoral offences commission that can monitor campaign finance. Additionally, civil society organizations must continue advocating for electoral reforms to promote transparency and integrity within Nigeria’s democratic practices.
In conclusion, the role of money in Nigeria’s democracy poses significant threats to electoral integrity and the democratic process. The influential and corrupting nature of money politics not only allows wealthy candidates to manipulate the electoral system but also undermines public trust. Comprehensive electoral reforms, including legislation on financial oversight and active civil society engagement, are urgently needed to restore credibility to Nigeria’s democracy and ensure free and fair elections. Without addressing these challenges, the pursuit of power may continue to overshadow the essential elements of democratic governance.
Original Source: punchng.com
