We are committed to electoral reforms, Gbajabiamila assures EU elections observers

TRACKING >>Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the House of Representatives on Tuesday assured European Union Elections Observers Mission of the present administration’s resolve towards embarking on electoral reforms ahead of 2023 general elections.

Gbajabiamila gave the assurance during an interactive session with the EU EOM delegation led by Deputy Chief Observer, Hannah Roberts.

The Speaker who underlined the successes recorded during the 2019 general elections, acknowledged the existing collaboration between the Nigerian Government and EU, just as he stressed the need to deepen the synergy.

“We appreciate your collaboration and partnership as reeled out in the 30 recommendations and the seven priority areas on how we can legalise the recommendations but it is also important that we can also localise your suggestions.”

While noting acknowledging the issues raised by the Mission, the Speaker appreciated the Mission’s observation that Nigeria made significant progress in the electoral process during the last general elections.

“The takeaway from your presentation among what you’ve read so far is that there has been an improvement; I’m glad you said that above what should be done,” he stated.

While noting that are lots to be done, Gbajabiamila acknowledged that we are not yet there, stressing that the 9th Assembly on resumption from the two weeks recess “will hit the ground running in terms of electoral reforms.”

He also pledged the National Assembly’s resolve to “continue to improve on our system year in, year out until the electoral system has come of age.”

Gbajabiamila maintained that the present administration will not allow a situation where the rules of the game would be changed by the Electoral Commission.

He maintained that Nigeria’s government’s decision to invite the Mission to monitor the general elections shows its commitment to transparency, just as he assured of following international best practices on elections and electioneering process.

Speaking earlier, Deputy Chief Observer, Hannah Roberts harped on the need for Nigeria to put stronger regulation of the process as well as a compilation of election results.

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She also stressed the need for transparency and collaboration between Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and early preparation of requisite security measures ahead of the elections.

She also decried the reduction in the number of women who were elected into the National Assembly during the last general elections, contrary to practices across African countries.

She also harped on the need to improve the licensing system to media.

In a related development, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Idris Wase (APC-Plateau) has called for the support of Nigerians and relevant stakeholders in the bid to address various socio-economic and political challenges facing the country.

Wase who gave the charge while addressing Plateau State Youth Council led by its chairman, Jenchang Fabong, frowned at the level of unemployment, poverty and security challenges steering the country at the face.

“The country is in deer need of good leadership in addressing insecurity, poverty, infrastructure and many other things that are required.

“We are in our trying moment but together l believe we can overcome it. By the grace of God, I will be a good ambassador of Plateau State,” Wase assured.

Speaking earlier, Jenchang Fabong, chairman, Plateau State Youth Council congratulated Hon. Wase, on his emergence as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.

“We congratulate you as you were re-elected to return to the House of Representatives, most importantly there is an important milestone that you are now the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives.

“We deem it necessary as Plateau State Youth Council and on behalf of the entire Plateau youths to come, greet you and to congratulate you officially.

“This is a great stride for the people of Plateau State giving that you were unopposed at the polls.

“This further buttresses your acceptability nationwide. We hope and believe that you shall do great exploits by leveraging on our support, partnership and prayers.

“Going forward, we hope that you will also leave a great mark on the sands of time.

“As youths from Plateau, we celebrate you today, congratulate you and as youths council of Plateau State and the entire youth we are extremely proud of you,” he said.