By Adamu Yusuf
A former presidential candidate and energy entrepreneur, Gbenga Hashim, has called for urgent measures to boost public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral institutions, emphasizing that trust in the system is vital for peaceful and credible elections.
Dr. Hashim advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to initiate reforms aimed at enhancing electoral credibility.
The former presidential candidate expressed optimism that President Tinubu would consider the recommendations in the broader interest of Nigeria’s democracy.
He noted that Section 29(1) of the amended Electoral Act provides an extended window for political parties to conduct their primaries up to mid-September.
According to him, strict adherence to this timeline would promote transparency, inclusiveness, and fairness in the electoral process.
Dr. Hashim further stressed that aligning the electoral timetable with provisions of the Act would demonstrate a commitment to due process.
He also recalled that the country’s democratic progress was achieved through sacrifices made during the struggle against military rule, noting that protecting political pluralism remains key to sustaining those gains.
