By Dorcas Achi
In a bid to foster credible elections, PAACA, a renowned Non-Governmental Organization dedicated to enhancing governance in Nigeria, convened a pivotal One-Day Town Hall Meeting in Imo State on July 23rd. The gathering, which brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including revered religious leaders, esteemed traditional rulers, security agencies, civil society organizations, and the National Orientation Agency, provided a platform for in-depth discussions on electoral reforms.
The Executive Director of PAACA, Ezenwa Nwagwu, elucidated that the Citizens Dialogue was designed to augment public awareness and comprehension of electoral reforms, facilitate inclusive discourse among citizens from varied backgrounds on electoral reform and constitutional amendments, and compile citizen-driven recommendations for submission to the National Assembly and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Nwagwu revealed that Imo State marked the 17th state where PAACA had organized the town hall meeting to popularize the Electoral Act and gather citizens' input. Based on his extensive experience, he noted that a significant challenge in Nigeria's electoral process stems from the public's limited understanding of electoral laws, processes, and tools. He emphasized that many citizens remain unfamiliar with INEC guidelines and the Nigerian Constitution, leading to uninformed discussions about elections.
He expressed optimism that the initiative would enhance public knowledge of electoral innovations and improvements ahead of the 2027 elections and subsequent polls. "When electorates are informed, politicians can no longer manipulate them with misleading talking points," he asserted. He added that PAACA's effort aims to demystify the electoral process, expose relevant laws, and curb electoral manipulations.
Stella-Maris Oparaugo, State Director of the National Orientation Agency in Imo State, echoed Nwagwu's concerns, stressing that many Nigerians are unaware of key electoral reforms. She pledged that her office would intensify efforts to educate citizens about their voting power, emphasizing that the real power lies with the people, not INEC. "The polling unit is where change happens," she stressed.
DSP Henry Okorie, Police Public Relations Officer of Imo State Police Command, representing CP Aboki Danjuma, assured that the police are committed to providing a secure environment for citizens to exercise their franchise. He emphasized the police's dedication to ensuring a peaceful atmosphere for free, fair, and credible elections.
His Royal Majesty Eze Dr. Matthew Chiedozie Nwokeoma, traditional ruler of Umuokanne Ancient Kingdom and Chairman of Security, Peace, and Conflict Resolution Committee in Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, highlighted the crucial role traditional rulers play in effective electoral reform. He noted that, as custodians of their communities, they are well-positioned to manage crises and ensure peaceful elections.
Barr. Ndidi Anike Val-Ukaoma, a legal practitioner and human rights activist, emphasized the need to adhere to the law governing elections. She noted that electorates' discontent stems from disparities and urged INEC and relevant agencies to listen to the people's voices in this democratic setting.
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