Senator Okey Ezea Advocates for Electoral Reform at Book Launch

DDM News

Senator Okey Ezea, representing Enugu North Senatorial District, has renewed calls for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s electoral process to enhance transparency and credibility.

Speaking at the public presentation of The Power of Nothing: Triumph and Thump of the People’s Voice in Enugu, authored by journalist and political analyst Ikem Okuhu, Ezea emphasized the necessity of a voting system that accurately reflects the will of the people.

The event, held on Saturday in Abuja, attracted a cross-section of political figures, academics, and civil society stakeholders.

Diaspora Digital Media gathered this information from Mr. Ogbobe, the Senator’s media aide, who shared highlights of the event on social media.

Ezea’s advocacy for electoral reform stems from his extensive political career, which has been defined by resilience and a commitment to democracy.

Before securing his current senatorial seat, Ezea had contested three gubernatorial elections in Enugu State. Despite widespread public support during these campaigns, he faced defeat each time, a result he attributes to systemic electoral malpractice rather than a lack of voter endorsement.

Reflecting on these experiences during his remarks, Ezea recounted the significant obstacles he encountered, including voter suppression, ballot manipulation, and institutional biases. These challenges, he argued, undermine the foundational principles of democracy and discourage public participation in the electoral process.

“Our elections must reflect the voice of the people,” Ezea asserted. “Until we have a system that guarantees the sanctity of every vote, we cannot claim to have a truly democratic society.”

Ezea’s personal journey highlights the long-standing flaws in Nigeria’s electoral system.

In 2007, 2011, and 2015, he vied for the position of Governor of Enugu State under different political platforms, including the Labour Party and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

His campaigns garnered widespread grassroots support, particularly in his native Nsukka Zone, where his advocacy for rural development and equitable governance resonated strongly with voters.

However, each attempt ended in controversy, with allegations of rigging, voter intimidation, and other irregularities casting shadows over the electoral outcomes.

These experiences shaped Ezea’s enduring commitment to electoral justice.

Now a Senator, he is using his legislative platform to champion reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

He has also made electoral reform the focus of his ongoing doctoral research, which examines the interplay between governance, voter behavior, and institutional accountability.

At the book launch, Ezea praised Ikem Okuhu for addressing these critical issues through his writing.

He described Okuhu’s book as a thought-provoking analysis of the political landscape in Enugu State, one that sheds light on the systemic challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy.

“This work is more than a book; it is a call to action,” Ezea said. “It challenges us to reflect on our electoral system and take decisive steps toward change.”

He urged Nigerians to engage with the book’s content, emphasizing its relevance to the current discourse on electoral reform.

According to Ezea, Okuhu’s meticulous research and incisive commentary offer valuable insights that can inform policy discussions and grassroots advocacy efforts.

The event’s significance was underscored by the caliber of attendees, who included prominent political and community leaders.

Distinguished Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who served as the event’s chairman, was represented by Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, a Member of the House of Representatives for Aba North and South Federal Constituency.

Other notable attendees included Hon. Chidi Mark Obetta, former gubernatorial candidate Rt. Hon. Chijioke Edeoga, and retired Deputy Comptroller General of Immigration (DCGI) Dominic Asogwa.

Their presence highlighted the bipartisan support for electoral reform and the growing recognition of its importance to Nigeria’s democratic future.

In his remarks, Hon. Ikwechegh commended Senator Ezea for his unwavering dedication to democratic ideals and his efforts to promote transparency in governance.

As the event concluded, Ezea reiterated his call for collective action to address the flaws in Nigeria’s electoral system.

He urged stakeholders at all levels—political leaders, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens—to advocate for reforms that would ensure free, fair, and credible elections.

“Democracy thrives when the people’s voice is heard and respected,” he said. “We must work together to build an electoral process that upholds this principle.”

The book presentation served as both a celebration of intellectual achievement and a platform for critical dialogue on one of Nigeria’s most pressing political challenges.

For Senator Okey Ezea, it was another opportunity to affirm his commitment to the ideals of justice, equity, and democratic governance.

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