Femi Falana Criticizes Electoral Act Amendment Without Enforcement in Nigeria

Femi Falana, a prominent human rights lawyer, expressed his views on the amendment of the Electoral Act in Nigeria, emphasizing that the process is futile without effective enforcement mechanisms. During an interview on Arise Television, Falana criticized the Nigerian political class for their unwillingness to enforce existing laws, leading to a disregard for ideological principles in politics.

He raised concerns about politicians prioritizing personal gains over party ideologies, resulting in a threat to Nigeria's democracy due to reckless impunity and electoral offenses. Falana highlighted the need for strict penalties for vote-buying, thuggery, and electoral offenses, pointing out the failure of law enforcement agencies to arrest and prosecute offenders.

He also recalled the recommendation made in 2008 for the establishment of an Electoral Offences Commission to investigate and prosecute electoral offenses, which has not been implemented by successive governments. Falana's critique extends to the routine violation of campaign spending limits and the prevalence of political defections without accountability.