The Labour Party in Nigeria has called for electoral and judicial reforms to safeguard the country’s democratic integrity. According to Toni Akeni, the party’s Interim National Publicity Secretary, the recent Local Government Area Council elections in Rivers State highlight the urgent need for change. Akeni said the elections, marred by controversy, reveal the ruling All Progressives Congress’s (APC) “grab, snatch and run with power” approach to politics.
The Labour Party spokesman argued that the Rivers council polls were a dress rehearsal for the APC’s plans to rig the 2027 elections. He emphasized that Nigerians can protect their democratic rights only by demanding constitutional amendments, particularly the removal of the President’s and state governors’ powers to appoint Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials and judicial officers. Akeni described the Rivers election as a “gang‑rape of Rivers State electorates and people,” alleging that it demonstrated the APC’s intention to disregard the people’s franchise and undermine democratic institutions.
The spokesman also drew attention to the August 16 by‑elections, which he claimed were used by President Bola Tinubu and Governor Nyesom Wike to showcase their plans to manipulate future polls. The party’s call for reforms comes amid concerns about the independence of the electoral commission and the judiciary. Akeni warned that an APC‑annexed judiciary could be used to cement the party’s grip on power, making it essential for Nigerians to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities and prevent further erosion of democratic norms.
With the 2027 elections approaching, the Labour Party’s demand for reforms underscores the need for urgent attention to Nigeria’s electoral and judicial systems. Their call to action serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions and ensuring that the will of the people is respected. As Nigeria continues to navigate its democratic challenges, meaningful reforms and increased civic engagement have become increasingly pressing.
Comments are closed for this story.