99 percent of voters have no clue of what they are doing – Agbakoba
Nigerian Bar Association Former President Questions Voter Awareness, Calls for Stricter Standards
Olisa Agbakoba, a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, has raised concerns regarding the level of political awareness among Nigerian voters. During an interview on Frontline, a public affairs program on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese-Ijebu, Agbakoba suggested that Nigeria may need to reconsider its voter eligibility standards.
He criticized the prevalence of vote-buying and insufficient political education, arguing that these issues have eroded democratic accountability, allowing poor leadership choices to flourish. “If we continue with this, the honest truth is that 99 percent of those who hold voter cards have no clue what they are doing,” Agbakoba stated. He emphasized that many voters, including older individuals in rural areas, remain uninformed yet easily swayed by monetary incentives.
Agbakoba expressed concern over the quality of Nigeria’s political class, indicating that the recruitment process has become increasingly influenced by financial power rather than competence. He lamented that individuals with criminal allegations or inadequate governance skills can still run for office with minimal oversight from political institutions or the electorate.
When questioned about how Nigeria could attract more capable leaders, he pointed out that the current political system rewards lawlessness and manipulation rather than merit.
“The rule of law is not followed,” Agbakoba said. He underscored that for the governance crisis to resolve, political actors must recognize the constitutional limits of public office and their associated responsibilities.
He asserted the need for leaders who understand their roles within the framework of the Constitution, ensuring their actions align with the duties assigned to executive, legislative, or judicial positions.
