Political economist Pat Utomi has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to make candidate debates a central part of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Utomi, while referencing South Korea’s political experience, argued that debates can help voters make informed decisions and reduce the influence of money in elections.
According to him, South Korea once had political conditions that closely resembled Nigeria’s “cash-and-carry” political culture, but the increased importance placed on electoral debates helped change the system.
He criticised INEC for failing to ensure that Nigerians have regular opportunities to properly assess candidates before elections.
Utomi also pointed to the commission’s responsibility for voter education, accusing it of failing to adequately fulfil that mandate in the interest of Nigerians.
He argued that Nigeria cannot continue conducting elections without meaningful debates that allow candidates to present their ideas, policies and plans directly to voters.
Utomi called for reforms that would make debates and effective voter education more prominent features of Nigeria’s electoral system.
