The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has identified unending litigations by politicians as one of the things slowing down the deepening of democratic processes in Nigeria’s political party system.
Chairman of the commission, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who stated this demanded a more common-sense approach by parties to end the trend.
He also called for caution on the part of politicians on such issue, saying it was preventing the attainment of internal democracy in the parties.
“There are so many court cases even on matters settled by the Supreme Court and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is very clear; once there is a pronouncement by the Supreme Court, all citizens and all actors are duty-bound to obey that order until there is another law superseding that – passed by the National Assembly and assented to – or a reconsideration of the same judgement by the Supreme Court”.
The INEC boss was speaking on Wednesday in Abuja at a meeting organised for party leaders on how to improve the administration of political parties across the country.
Experts at the meeting also discussed how to ensure consistent compliance with rules on party politics, attainment of internal democracy, as well as ensuring transparency in the disbursement of funds.
As the 2019 general elections draw near, the electoral body assured Nigerians of its commitment to sensitising political parties and citizens on their roles in achieving a free and fair election.
