Ramadan Iftar: SDP, IPAC Urges Electoral Reforms, Better Citizen’s Participation

Ramadan Iftar: SDP, IPAC Urges Electoral Reforms, Better Citizen’s Participation

Key political figures have called for reforms that will strengthen democratic participation and deepen Nigeria’s electoral process.

The call was made at an Iftar (breaking of fast) gathering organised by Lilian Adebayo, wife of the 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, urged authorities to review certain aspects of the electoral framework ahead of future elections.

Dantalle expressed concern that some provisions, including the use of indirect party primaries and the mandatory requirement of the National Identification Number (NIN) in political processes, could limit citizens’ participation in democracy.

He appealed to the leadership of the ruling party to support policy adjustments where necessary, stressing that wide consultations and reforms are vital for sustaining Nigeria’s multi-party democratic system.

According to him, democracy thrives on inclusiveness and should not be driven by a “win-at-all-costs” mentality.

Dantalle also urged political actors to rely on the judiciary to resolve electoral disputes, emphasising that respect for due process remains essential for democratic stability.

He called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain strict adherence to electoral laws, noting that Nigerians have high expectations for future elections.

“Democracy is about inclusion and participation. It is about allowing citizens to freely choose their leaders and ensuring that the electoral process reflects the collective will of the people,” he said.

Dantalle disclosed that IPAC is currently working on a documentary project aimed at preserving Nigeria’s democratic history and institutional memory.
He added that Nigeria’s stability remains critical to Africa due to the country’s strategic political and economic influence.

Also speaking, the SDP presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Adewole Adebayo, stressed the need for leadership actions and policies that encourage greater voter participation.

Reflecting on the spiritual significance of the Ramadan season, Adebayo said the values of humility, justice and accountability associated with the holy month should guide political leadership.

He noted that Nigeria’s religious and cultural diversity remains one of its greatest strengths and urged political leaders to align their conduct with the moral lessons of Ramadan.

Adebayo also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to continue encouraging policies that deepen democratic participation and boost voter engagement.

According to him, elections should aim to achieve the highest possible level of voter participation to ensure democratic legitimacy.

He emphasised that democracy ultimately belongs to the Nigerian people, not to a select group of political office holders.

The SDP candidate further called for reduced political tension and greater commitment to peaceful and credible elections.

Earlier, the National Chairman of the SDP, Prof. Sadiq Umar Gombe, emphasised the importance of unity, religious tolerance and constructive engagement among political leaders.

Gombe commended the initiative by the host of the gathering, noting that the event reflected the spirit of generosity, compassion and unity associated with Ramadan.

He said although the gathering involved political figures from different parties, it primarily served as a social and religious engagement aimed at strengthening relationships and promoting mutual understanding.

The SDP chairman also acknowledged the media as the “fourth estate of the realm,” commending journalists for their role in promoting transparency and democratic accountability.

He urged political actors to sustain peaceful engagement and collaboration across party lines, stressing that national development requires collective commitment from leaders and citizens.

The event ended with prayers for peace, unity and continued democratic progress in Nigeria.