Makinde Calls for Electoral Law Review, Cites 2023 Election as Example

Oyo State Governor and presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Seyi Makinde, has called for a review of Nigeria's electoral process. He proposes that presidential candidates should secure at least 50 per cent plus one of the total votes cast to emerge as winner. This, he argues, would give the winner a broader mandate and strengthen public acceptance of the government. Makinde made this statement during a live interview on Bauchi Radio Corporation.

Makinde cited the 2023 presidential election as an example of why the electoral process needs to be reviewed. In the election, President Bola Tinubu secured slightly above 34 per cent of the total votes cast. Makinde noted that under the current constitution, a candidate can become president with just 33 per cent of the votes, meaning 67 per cent of the people can vote against them. He emphasized that the outcome of the 2023 election showed that the majority of voters supported candidates other than the eventual winner.

The governor maintained that requiring presidential candidates to secure at least 50 per cent plus one of the votes would give the winner a broader mandate. This, he believes, would address concerns about the level of national acceptance enjoyed by elected leaders. Makinde's proposal is part of his reset agenda, which focuses on the economy, security, education, and social policies ahead of the 2027 general election.

Beyond electoral reforms, Makinde proposed a transitional government of national unity. He believes that the country needs an inclusive administration to address its challenges across different regions. According to Makinde, his team has visited the six geopolitical zones to listen to Nigerians and understand their expectations. These consultations have helped identify the major concerns and aspirations of citizens.

The concerns and aspirations gathered from the consultations have been incorporated into the APC's manifesto. Makinde disclosed that he had visited the six geopolitical zones before beginning his state-by-state campaign. He emphasized that the proposed reforms are part of his efforts to address the country's challenges.

Makinde's proposals have sparked discussions about the need for electoral reforms in Nigeria. His call for a review of the electoral process has resonated with many Nigerians. The 2027 general election is expected to be a significant event, with various candidates vying for the presidency.

The APC's presidential campaign is set to begin in earnest, with Makinde flagging off his campaign in Bauchi. His reset agenda, which includes electoral reforms and a transitional government of national unity, is expected to be a major plank of his campaign. The outcome of the election will be closely watched, both within Nigeria and internationally.

Key points

• Makinde proposes that presidential candidates should secure at least 50 per cent plus one of the total votes cast to emerge as winner.
• The 2023 presidential election saw President Bola Tinubu secure slightly above 34 per cent of the total votes cast.
• Makinde's proposals are part of his reset agenda, which focuses on the economy, security, education, and social policies ahead of the 2027 general election.