In the vibrant democratic landscape of Nigeria, the constitution stands as the cornerstone of our collective identity and governance. However, its profound significance often remains confined to legal professionals, leaving the broader citizenry in a state of political illiteracy. As the Executive Director of the Electoral College Nigeria, I, Kunle Lawal, have dedicated my efforts to demystifying this vital document, advocating for its integration into the daily lives of Nigerians. Only through widespread constitutional literacy can we ensure that justice and rights are upheld in our democracy.
The Constitution is not merely a legal manuscript; it is the holy book of the citizenry. It outlines our rights, delineates the separation of powers, and provides the framework for governance. However, for many Nigerians, it remains an inaccessible text, relegated to the hands of lawyers and academics. This detachment undermines the very essence of democracy, where every citizen should be well-versed in their rights and responsibilities. My work with the Electoral College Nigeria focuses on socializing the constitution, making it a living document that every Nigerian can understand and engage with.
At the Electoral College Nigeria, we have made significant strides in combating political illiteracy. Our programs encompass modules that span all aspects of politics and governance. These courses are designed to empower citizens with the knowledge needed to navigate and participate effectively in the political landscape. One of our core objectives is to ensure that citizens understand the Constitution and the Electoral Act, recognizing their roles in shaping electoral outcomes.
The Electoral Act is a crucial component of our democratic process. It governs the conduct of elections, ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability. Yet, its provisions are often misunderstood or overlooked by both the electorate and candidates. By educating citizens on the intricacies of the Electoral Act, we can foster a more informed and engaged populace, leading to better electoral outcomes. This understanding is essential for holding public officials accountable and ensuring that electoral promises align with the legal frameworks within which they operate.
The poor legislative levels in state and federal assemblies are often a direct result of a poor understanding of the Constitution by those in governance. Many politicians campaign with promises of constituency projects that are not even constitutional. This gap in knowledge results in misplaced priorities and ineffective governance, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive constitutional education for both the electorate and those in positions of power.
My dedication to this cause is unwavering. Through the Electoral College Nigeria, I have spearheaded initiatives that bring the constitution and the Electoral Act into the public consciousness. Our debates for candidates, for instance, are designed to prevent them from making promises beyond their jurisdiction, highlighting the importance of understanding one’s role within the framework of the law. We also emphasize the significance of intra-party democracy, ensuring that political parties themselves adhere to democratic principles.
As we move forward, we must continue to prioritize political literacy. Every Nigerian should have access to the knowledge that empowers them to participate fully in our democracy. The Constitution should be seen not as an esoteric document, but as a practical guide to our rights and duties as citizens. By socializing the Constitution, we can build a more just and equitable society, where every individual is aware of their place within the democratic framework.
In conclusion, the journey to a robust democracy is paved with informed citizens who understand and cherish their constitution. At the Electoral College Nigeria, we are committed to this vision, ensuring that the Constitution becomes a familiar and respected document for all. It is only through widespread constitutional literacy that we can guarantee justice and rights for every Nigerian, fulfilling the true promise of democracy.
Kunle Lawal
Executive Director, Electoral College Nigeria
