Lagos – Mr Adedotun Adetunji, Chairman of Ikorodu Chapter of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) , on Monday advocated the inclusion of independent candidates in the Constitution, to promote healthy political contest.
Adetunji made the suggestion in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
He said that incorporating independent candidates would push the nation’s political platform to its zenith and give the electorates more wider options in their choice of leaders.
“It is long overdue for the nation’s electoral process to have a position for independent candidates, as many disillusioned party members could form their own autonomous party.
“Members of a particular ideology could have their party different from the major parties or collaborate with other political parties, to capture power and form a governing party,” he said.[pro_ad_display_adzone id=”70560″]
Adetunji noted that although having independent candidates in an electoral process has its short comings, however the positive aspects of it far outweigh its disadvantages.
“In spite of its perceived negatives, it is good for the nation’s democratic experience, as it will enable the electoral process to be better with time.
“We are aware that the process of independent candidates is a common practice among advanced democracies of the west, our country can effectively grow our democracy with the entrenchment of the practice,” he said.
On the forthcoming governorship elections in Kogi and Bayesa, Adetunji advised INEC to commence massive enlightenment campaign in remote areas of the affected states, to encourage mass participation.
“The Independence National Electoral Commission (INEC) ought to be through half way in drawing awareness on Kogi and Bayesa state elections taking place at the end of the year.
“This time around, we hope not to have electoral apathy in the system,” he said. (NAN)
