Peter Obi, the presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has lauded the recent South African election results as an exemplary model of transparency and efficiency in a democratic electoral process, unlike that of Nigeria’s 2023 general election which had a lot of irregularities,
Obi highlighted the impressive 60% voter turnout, the timely opening of over 90% of polling stations, and the inclusion of diaspora voting.
The real-time results and updates, free from technical glitches, underscored the robustness and transparency of South Africa’s system.
In a post on his X Handle Obi stated, “The outcome of the recent South African election results remains a shining example of what a transparent and efficient democratic electoral process should look like.
“With about 60% Voter turnout, over 90% of polling open on time, allowing diaspora voting, the results and updates were real-time without any technical glitches during the election.
“This demonstrated the robustness and transparency of their system. The seamless online dissemination of results further highlights their commitment to democratic principles and technological advancement,” Obi said
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In stark contrast, Obi criticized Nigeria’s 2023 elections, which saw less than 30% voter turnout, over 60% of polling stations opening late, and no provision for diaspora voting.
“This is in stark contrast, to the show of shame that the giant of Africa, Nigeria, gave the World in 2023.
“Nigeria’s 2023, with less than 30% of the Voter turnout and over 60% of the polling stations starting late, no diaspora voting, the elections were plagued by allegations of fraud and widespread irregularities, all forms of glitches, despite an enormous expenditure to the tune of about a billion dollars (direct allocation of N313 billion and donor agencies supports) The process has been widely discredited.
“The differences between the two countries’ electoral processes are both stark and lamentable. South Africa’s Election Results Center, with its state-of-the-art electronic board, showcased results with unparalleled precision and speed. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s electoral process is mired in controversy and lacks transparency,”.
Obi stated, “This glaring juxtaposition is a painful reminder of our country’s ongoing struggles with democratic governance. It underscores the urgent need for comprehensive electoral reforms to ensure that our elections are free, fair, and credible.
“We must learn from South Africa’s example and strive to build a system that restores the people’s faith in our democracy. The time for action is now, and we cannot afford to delay any longer in addressing these critical issues for a new Nigeria is POssible!,” Obi concluded.
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