Adewole Adebayo, the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has vehemently condemned National Assembly members who oppose mandatory electronic transmission of election results, characterising their conduct as a peril to Nigeria’s democracy.
Adebayo addressed Politics Today on Channels Television on Monday, responding to the Senate’s rejection of a proposed amendment to Clause 60(3) of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, which aimed to mandate the electronic transmission of election results.
He refuted assertions that the recent public responses to the decision constituted agitation, asserting that what had transpired thus far was merely a “warm-up” and a “fashion parade,” emphasising that Nigerians nationwide were already organising to uphold democracy.
He asserts that democracy supersedes personal ambition, riches, or political status, seeing it vital for the survival, dignity, and advancement of Nigerians.
The former SDP candidate criticised what he termed a contradiction in governmental activities, observing that although officials assert they are addressing coup conspirators decisively, legislators are permitted to subvert the populace’s will through legislative measures.
He stated, “That is not agitation.” This serves as a preliminary exercise. I implore God Almighty that we will settle the issue. That was not unrest; that was a display of fashion.
I had recently returned from Lagos. We are all engaged in planning. Individuals nationwide are engaged in planning, as this democracy holds greater significance for me than attaining the presidency.
This democracy holds greater significance for me than accumulating wealth, as it embodies the black man’s capacity to possess a nation where he may harness his abilities, safeguard his family, protect his children, and assert his influence globally. That exemplifies true democracy.
The administration asserts that it has apprehended those involved in a coup attempt. We were all concerned. You summoned me to the studio here. We were conversing about the consequences for anyone involved in coup plotting within our nation. Why are we addressing coup plotters while permitting them to remain in the National Assembly, so undermining the aspirations of the Nigerian populace? It is essential to comprehend representative government.