EBSU Student Pushes for Electoral Overhaul, Greater Accountability As Nigerians Approach 2027 Elections

Daberechi Okoh, a student of Ebonyi State University, has called for far-reaching reforms in Nigeria's electoral system, stressing that the country's democracy cannot function effectively if citizens continue to lose confidence in the value of their votes.

Okoh expressed deep concern over what she described as the growing distrust many Nigerians have toward elections and the institutions responsible for conducting them. According to her, democracy can only thrive when citizens believe that their votes matter and that election outcomes genuinely reflect the wishes of the people.

Okoh argued that one of the greatest challenges facing Nigeria today is the widespread belief that elections are no longer decided solely by the votes of ordinary citizens.

She noted that many Nigerians have become discouraged from participating in the electoral process because they feel that money, political influence, and powerful interests often play a greater role in determining outcomes than the ballots cast by voters.

According to her, this perception has weakened public confidence in governance and has created frustration among citizens who believe their voices are not being adequately represented.

She maintained that if Nigeria is to move forward as a democratic nation, the country must address these concerns and rebuild trust in its electoral institutions.

"Nigeria needs to be fixed," Okoh said. "The foundation of every democracy is the confidence people have in their votes. When citizens begin to feel that their votes no longer count, democracy itself is placed at risk."

She explained that electoral reform should begin with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the body charged with organizing and supervising elections across the country.

According to her, the commission plays a crucial role in determining whether elections are seen as free, fair, and credible.

Okoh stated that if INEC consistently demonstrates transparency, independence, and accountability in its operations, public confidence in elections could gradually be restored.

She emphasized that Nigerians want an electoral process where every vote is counted accurately and where election results reflect the genuine choices made by citizens at the ballot box.

"The changes Nigerians are talking about must start from INEC," she said. "If INEC does the right thing and carries out its responsibilities fairly, Nigeria will become a better country. People will regain confidence in elections, and democracy will become stronger."

Beyond electoral institutions, Okoh also highlighted the need for reforms in other areas of government. She pointed specifically to the National Assembly and other legislative bodies, arguing that lawmakers have a responsibility not only to create laws but also to uphold the principles behind those laws.

According to her, there is often a gap between the laws that are written and the way they are implemented. She stressed that public officials must lead by example and demonstrate respect for the rule of law if they expect citizens to do the same.

"The legislature exists to make laws for the good of the country," she said. "But those who make laws must also respect them. Leadership should be about service, accountability, and commitment to the people."

Okoh acknowledged that there are still individuals within government and public institutions who genuinely advocate for the rights and welfare of citizens. However, she argued that such voices remain too few and that more leaders must be willing to place national interest above personal or political considerations.

She said many Nigerians continue to face economic hardship, unemployment, insecurity, poor infrastructure, and inadequate public services. In her view, these challenges can only be effectively addressed when leaders are elected through a process that is trusted by the people and when public institutions operate with integrity.

According to Okoh, corruption remains one of the major obstacles to Nigeria's development. She argued that corruption weakens institutions, undermines public trust, and prevents resources from being used for the benefit of citizens. For this reason, she believes that efforts to strengthen democracy must go hand in hand with efforts to promote transparency and accountability across government.

She further noted that democratic progress requires cooperation among citizens, institutions, and leaders. She called on all stakeholders to work together in strengthening the country's democratic foundations and ensuring that elections remain credible and transparent.

Okoh emphasized that the future of Nigeria depends largely on the ability of its institutions to earn the trust of the people they serve. She maintained that when citizens believe that their votes matter, they are more likely to participate in elections, engage in civic activities, and contribute positively to national development.

She urged electoral authorities, lawmakers, political leaders, and citizens to play their respective roles in safeguarding democracy. According to her, Nigeria has the potential to become a stronger and more prosperous nation, but achieving that goal requires a commitment to fairness, accountability, and respect for the democratic process.

For Okoh, the message is clear: democracy can only succeed when every vote counts, when institutions act in the public interest, and when leaders remain accountable to the people who elected them. She believes that restoring trust in elections is not merely a political issue but a national priority that will shape the future of Nigeria for generations to come.