The results of the most recent election in South Africa, according to Mr. Peter Obi, a former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, are a brilliant illustration of what an open and effective democratic electoral process should resemble.
Referring to Nigeria’s most recent general election, Obi added that this stood in stark contrast to the “show of shame” that the continent’s largest country, Nigeria, had shown the world in 2023.
He claims that the stark contrast serves as a sobering reminder of Nigeria’s continuous difficulties with democratic administration.
The former governor of Anambra State emphasised that the results of the election in South Africa showed how stable and open their system was.
He emphasised that their dedication to democratic values and technical innovation was further demonstrated by the results’ smooth online distribution.
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Nonetheless, Obi bemoaned the opaque and contentious nature of Nigeria’s voting process.
He declared: “The outcomes of the most recent election in South Africa continue to be a brilliant model of what an open and effective democratic electoral process can achieve.
“With over 60% of voters casting ballots, more than 90% of polling places opening on schedule, and the ability to cast ballots from a distance, the election’s results and updates were made available in real time without any technical difficulties.
This showed how reliable and transparent their system was. Their dedication to technological innovation and democratic principles is further demonstrated by the smooth online distribution of results.
“This stands in sharp contrast to the’show of humiliation’ that Nigeria, the continent’s largest country, gave the world in 2023. Less than 30% of voters cast ballots in Nigeria’s 2023 election, over 60% of polling places opened late, no diaspora voting was allowed, and there were numerous irregularities and fraud claims. Despite massive spending totaling nearly $1 billion (directly allocated ₦313 billion and support from donor agencies), there were numerous problems with the election.
“The procedure has received a lot of criticism. The disparities between the election systems in the two nations are regrettable and glaring. The Election Results Centre in South Africa displayed results with unmatched speed and accuracy thanks to its cutting-edge electronic board.
Nigeria’s election process, however, is opaque and enmeshed in controversy. This stark contrast serves as a stinging reminder of the continued difficulties our nation faces in implementing democratic government.
It emphasises how critical it is to implement extensive electoral reforms as soon as possible in order to guarantee free, fair, and credible elections. We need to take a cue from South Africa and work towards establishing a structure that helps people trust our democracy again.
“We need to address these important issues immediately because there is no time to wait any longer—a new Nigeria is possible!”
