By Peter Adelowo
The Africa Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has expressed solidarity with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigerian workforce in demanding genuine electoral reforms.
The call comes amid concerns over legislative ambiguity surrounding transparency in the transmission and collation of election results, which threatens democratic credibility and public confidence.
A statement signed by the General Secretary of ITUC-Africa, Akhator Joel Odigie, states that democracy cannot thrive where the will of the people is compromised.
The statement explains that elected representatives are servants of citizens and must legislate in accordance with the public mandate, rather than pursue personal or elite interests.
“Public office is a sacred responsibility to protect citizens’ sovereignty”
According to the statement, the union body warns that the current indecision and political ambiguity by the Nigerian Senate pose serious risks to democracy, which is closely linked to development, stability, and social progress.
“Delays in reforms could erode public trust, undermine universal suffrage, and weaken confidence that every vote counts” he emphasizes.
It stresses that electoral reform should enhance transparency, accountability, and credibility.
“The Senate must ensure systems are inclusive, effective, and resilient, rather than exclusionary or regressive. Legislators cannot claim to represent the people while ignoring citizens’ calls for action”
The statement urges the Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives to act decisively to restore public confidence in the electoral process.
“Reforms must safeguard the sovereignty of the people, strengthen democratic institutions, and protect the rights of workers:
It emphasizes that the future of Nigerian democracy and the social and economic progress of working people depend on transparent, credible, and people-centred electoral reforms.
