Post-Edo 2024 Election: ANEEJ Sets agenda for the Incoming Administration
BENIN-CITY, NIGERIA….In a recent interview aired on “This Morning on ITV” on September 30, 2024, titled “Post-Edo 2024 Election: Agenda Setting for the Incoming Administration,” ANEEJ Executive Director, Rev. David Ugolor, provided key insights into the Edo State governorship election and outlined a strategic roadmap for the incoming administration of Governor-elect Senator Monday and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa.
Rev. Ugolor highlighted two significant lessons from the election:” the successful reduction of election-related violence due to strong security presence, and the concerningly low voter turnout. Despite Edo State’s growing population since 2012, participation in the electoral process has sharply declined. Ugolor attributed this to the disengagement of political parties and the erosion of public trust in elections.
“In a state with nearly four million people, less than one million votes were cast, with less than 300,000 deciding the outcome. Political parties are active only during elections and go dormant afterward,” Ugolor noted. He called for continuous party engagement to build public confidence and promote democratic ideals.
Rev. Ugolor also emphasized the need for improved electoral transparency, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to adopt technology for faster and more transparent results, particularly addressing delays at collation centers and the impact of poor weather conditions.
On governance, he advised the governor-elect to prioritize competence over political loyalty when forming his administration. He stressed the importance of including individuals from diverse political backgrounds and civil society for effective governance. “Winning an election requires different skills than governing effectively. Competent individuals, even from outside the political party, are crucial for success.”
Ugolor also raised concerns about corruption and accountability, particularly in infrastructure development. He cited a tragic example of a political party chairman’s child who died in a road accident caused by poor infrastructure. “Many structures built with stolen public funds have resulted in substandard projects, harming everyone.”
Looking forward, Ugolor urged the new administration to embrace transparency, accountability, and good governance by engaging civil society organizations (CSOs). He referenced the collaborative governance model of previous administrations, which led to more inclusive decision-making. He emphasized that working with CSOs is not optional but essential for ensuring transparency and accountability in Edo State.
He criticized the outgoing administration for sidelining civil society, contrasting it with the tenure of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who fostered active collaboration with trade unions and CSOs. “It wasn’t about co-opting individuals but about engaging organized civil society for the public good,” Ugolor said.
As Nigeria celebrates 64 years of independence, Ugolor reminded leaders that power is fleeting and urged them to focus on leaving a legacy of good governance. “Today’s leaders will fade just as past political elites did. The question is, what legacy will they leave behind?”
Rev. Ugolor called on the incoming administration to partner with civil society in governance. “Transparency and accountability are fundamental to good governance and cannot be achieved without the active involvement of CSOs. This collaboration is crucial for fighting corruption, improving public services, and ensuring justice for all.”
As Edo State prepares for the inauguration of its new leadership, Ugolor’s message is clear: “ only by working closely with civil society can the incoming government fulfill its promises, restore public trust, and promote sustainable development in the state.” Watch the full discussion here