Constitutional lawyer, Mike Ozekhome (SAN), has called for the institutionalisation of development-focused practices to foster change in Nigeria and the African continent.
Besides, he also emphasised the need for converted efforts and harmonisation of the fight against corruption through democratic governance and the oversight of anti-corruption bodies by responsible civil society.
Ozekhome disclosed this on Wednesday in a paper he titled “Has Democracy led to Good Governance in Nigeria?”, which he presented at the Mid-West Achievers Awards in Benin City, Edo State.
The legal luminary who bagged a “Defender of Democracy” at the event also flawed what he described as political corruption, adding that such undermined democratic principles.
He stressed that political corruption should be aggressively addressed with the same seriousness and penalties as other forms of corruption, “such as financial crimes.”
“Too often, political corruption is overlooked largely because the political elite, who are often guilty of these practices, hold significant power.
“For instance, Nigeria’s election history is rife with stories of electoral manipulation and voter exploitation by the political class.
“Post-election adjudication should not only focus on determining winners, but should also impose penalties, including imprisonment and fines on political elites or their agents who violate electoral rules.
“Free and fair elections are the foundation of legitimacy, transparency, and accountability, and should be consistently safeguarded to ensure leaders are held accountable to the people,” he added.
Earlier, the Director of Organisation, Mid-West Achievers Awards, Dr. Owen Omo-Ojo, said “the event is geared to recognise archivers and spotlight super achievers who have dared to dream, navigate turbulent times, and upheld the highest ethical standards while inspiring hope in their communities and beyond.”
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