The Senator representing Enugu West Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Osita Ngwu, has described the Parliament as the cornerstone of every thriving democracy, emphasizing that it remains the institution through which the people’s voices are expressed and government is held accountable.
Senator Ngwu made these remarks during the 7th Chinua Achebe International Conference held last week at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
The conference, themed “Reimagining African Development in the Uncharted Democracy,” brought together scholars, policymakers, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to explore Africa’s democratic journey and development prospects.
Speaking during a panel session, Senator Ngwu underscored the indispensable role of the legislature in sustaining democratic governance.
“Parliament is that arm of government that truly represents democracy. It is the fulcrum upon which democracy stands because it represents the people. Parliamentarians are elected by the people to speak on their behalf, hold government accountable, carry out oversight functions, and ensure effective checks and balances,” he stated.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic evolution, Senator Ngwu noted that the country’s electoral process has witnessed significant improvements over the years. Recalling that he began voting in 1998, he observed that the introduction of biometric voter accreditation, Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), and other electoral reforms has strengthened the credibility of elections and enhanced public confidence in the process.
The lawmaker also highlighted the importance of electronic transmission of election results while acknowledging the practical challenges facing its implementation in Nigeria. According to him, issues such as inadequate internet connectivity and cybersecurity concerns, including the risk of hacking, remain significant obstacles.
He further clarified common misconceptions surrounding real-time transmission of election results, explaining that several parts of the country still lack the technological infrastructure required for seamless electronic transmission.
Despite these advances, Senator Ngwu expressed concern over declining voter participation, attributing voter apathy largely to a lack of trust and confidence in the electoral system. He called for sustained civic education and public enlightenment through town hall meetings, conferences, and other community engagement platforms to rebuild citizens’ confidence in democracy.
He further urged all critical democratic institutions to play their constitutional roles effectively. According to him, “the National Assembly must continue to enact laws that guarantee the sanctity of every vote, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must ensure strict compliance with the Electoral Act, and the judiciary must dispense justice swiftly and impartially against electoral offenders”.
“The moment Nigerians are convinced that every vote truly counts and that electoral malpractice attracts consequences, public confidence in our democracy will be restored. I am optimistic that Nigeria will continue to make progress and ultimately get it right,” he said.
Addressing traditional institutions, Senator Ngwu assured traditional rulers that efforts were underway to establish the Traditional Rulers Council, describing it as an important step toward strengthening collaboration between traditional institutions and government in national development.
One of the memorable highlights of the conference was Senator Ngwu’s visit to the historic office of the legendary Nigerian author, Professor Chinua Achebe, a symbolic moment that paid tribute to one of Africa’s greatest literary icons and reaffirmed the enduring relevance of his legacy in shaping conversations around leadership, governance, and nation-building.
Senator Osita Ngwu’s participation at the conference reinforced his commitment to deepening democratic governance, promoting electoral reforms, and fostering inclusive national development through constructive engagement with academic institutions, traditional leaders, and the Nigerian people.
Media office of the Senate Committee Chairman on Airforce