By Editor.
A prominent political leader from Ekiti East Local Government Area, Obembe Bola Mathew, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving new electoral laws aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.
The politician stated this in a statement he personally signed and made available to journalists on Friday.
He described the newly approved electoral reforms as a bold and timely intervention that would promote credible, transparent, and violence-free elections across the country.
According to him, the provisions contained in the amended laws are designed to close loopholes that previously undermined the integrity of the nation’s electoral system, adding that the reforms would enhance accountability among political actors while restoring public confidence in the electoral process.
Obembe also recalled the violence that marred the March 20, 2021 bye-election into Ward 7, Unit 7 of Ekiti East Constituency I in Omuo-Ekiti, where several people were reportedly killed, including a police officer and a party agent.
He noted that he was personally a victim of political victimization during the poll, describing the incident as one of the unfortunate moments in the state’s democratic journey.
“The painful experiences of the past must not define our future. With these reforms, we can look forward to elections that truly reflect the will of the people without intimidation, violence or manipulation,” he said.
Obembe further expressed concern that some of the individuals responsible for the violence during the bye-election were released after facing minimal penalties, a situation he said weakened public confidence in the justice system and encouraged electoral misconduct.
However, he expressed optimism that the newly approved electoral laws would address such gaps by imposing stiffer consequences on electoral malpractices and violence.
“The new electoral laws introduce stronger sanctions and enforcement mechanisms. This will serve as a deterrent to those who seek to undermine the democratic process through violence and other forms of electoral malfeasance,” he added.
The Ekiti East political leader also urged political parties, security agencies and the electorate to support the full implementation of the new reforms in order to safeguard democracy and promote peaceful elections across the country.
While reiterating his belief in the leadership of Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, Obembe praised the governor for sustaining peace, stability and responsible governance in Ekiti State.
According to him, the prevailing atmosphere of calm and political maturity in the state is a testament to the administration’s commitment to good governance and inclusive leadership.
He expressed confidence that with continued cooperation among stakeholders and the strengthening of electoral laws by the federal government, Nigeria’s democracy would continue to grow stronger and more resilient.
