2027: Utomi’s shadow cabinet calls for sweeping constitutional, electoral reforms

By Jude Opara, Abuja

Ahead of the 2027 general elections,a good governance advocacy group floated by Prof. Pat Utomi known as the ‘Big Tent Shadow Cabinet”, has called for urgent constitutional and electoral reforms to strengthen the country’s democracy.

The group said the reforms, will address structural issues, such as the concentration of power in the federal government which it observed is suffocating the other tiers of government.

Professor Utomi, in his remarks at the forum`s meeting held recently in Lagos said; “The cabinet recognizes that constitutional amendments matter significantly today because they offer an opportunity to address the country’s numerous challenges and strengthen our democracy by addressing.”

According to him, amending the constitution may restructure the country and promote regional autonomy, address sentiments of marginalization, inequality, exclusion, and allow for local governments autonomy.

A communique signed by the forum`s Directorate of Media & Communications, Charles Odibo, stated that “The Big Tent Shadow Cabinet also recognizes that the nation’s electoral law reforms matter now because they can significantly impact the country’s democratic growth, stability, and integrity of elections such as addressing ambiguities and loopholes.

“We note that the 2022 Electoral Act has ambiguities and loopholes that were exposed during the 2023 general election, such as uncertainty regarding the stage for comparing physical copies of results and electronically transmitted results. Reforming these laws can help prevent electoral disputes and ensure clarity in the electoral process.

“Consequently, as a responsible opposition, recognizing the critical importance of electoral reforms and constitutional amendments in strengthening our beleaguered democracy we are committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in our electoral processes.”

The forum further listed areas of immediate concerns, stressing that granting autonomy to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will ensure its neutrality in conducting elections.

“The legal status of INEC’s regulations, guidelines, and manuals are unclear, and the commission’s independence needs to be safeguarded.

“Electronic Voting: We support the adoption of electronic voting systems to enhance transparency, reduce electoral malpractices, and increase efficiency. Making electronic transmission of results mandatory can enhance transparency and reduce disputes, and clarifying the role of technology in results management can improve the electoral process.

“Voter Registration: We recommend a continuous voter registration process, ensuring all eligible citizens can exercise their right to vote.

“Enhancing Voter Identification: Expanding voter identification means can improve the electoral process. This can include using driver’s licenses, international passports, national identity cards, or electronically downloadable voters’ cards.”

While weighing in on constitutional amendments, The Big Tent also called for state police to allow states to have more control over their security and law enforcement.

“We propose constitutional amendments to ensure greater representation and inclusivity, including provisions for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

“We recommend reforms to the judiciary, including measures to enhance its independence, accountability, and effectiveness.

“To give teeth to our recommendations, The Big Tent commits to stakeholder engagement with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, traditional leaders, and citizens, to build consensus and gather input on our proposals; and we will conduct public education campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of electoral reforms and constitutional amendments”.

The group said It believes that the reforms will enhance transparency, accountability, and inclusivity, ultimately leading to a more stable and prosperous nation.