Catholic Christian lawyers commend House for rejecting Option A4

Udenze told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the option was not feasible with more than 40 political parties. “Option A4 is good in the quest for a free and fair election, but the feasibility of the system at this time with more than 40 parties is hard to think of. “How […]

Udenze told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the option was not feasible with more than 40 political parties.

“Option A4 is good in the quest for a free and fair election, but the feasibility of the system at this time with more than 40 parties is hard to think of.

“How can all the people in a ward queue behind more than 40 persons running for elective posts in an area?’’ he asked.

The lawyer wondered whether there would be enough personnel and equipment for the option A4 system to work and how results would be relayed to INEC headquarters under the system.

Udenze urged INEC to remove from its records parties that were inactive, saying Nigeria does not need more than three parties.

On similarities of ideologies by all existing parties, the president argued that the retention of more than three parties would not allow for the growth of Nigeria’s democracy.

“The fewer the parties, the better the chances of developing a viable, healthy democracy.

“Few parties will ensure credible opposition, which serves as a good check on the ruling party, keeping it on its toes and conscious of whatever decisions they have to make,’’ he said.

According to him, when parties other than the ruling party are strong and active to challenge the ruling party, it will be cautious and the society benefits.

Udenze noted that considering the expensive nature of party politics, allowing the operation of parties that were not making any impact to exist was a waste of the taxpayers’ money.

He urged the government to strengthen political institutions like the INEC and shop for professionals as INEC Chairman and Commissioners. (NAN)