By Sandra Micheals
The Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu has called on the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to sustain its technical support for democratic governance and electoral integrity in Nigeria.
Kalu made the call during a recent meeting with top officials of FCDO led by the Director General, Network, Christina Scott in London, United Kingdom on the sidelines of his engagement at the Chatham House.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary Levinus Nwabughiogu, the deputy speaker said Nigeria and the UK share deep historical ties, people-to-people connections, commercial interests and a common commitment to constitutional democracy, accountable institutions and the rule of law.
While expressing appreciation to FCDO for its effort in deepening democratic governance in Nigeria, he noted that strong legislatures are key to strong democracies.
The Deputy Speaker also highlighted progress on electoral reform, including lessons from the 2023 elections and provisions of the 2026 Electoral Act, which he said statutorily recognises BVAS and electronic transmission of results, while also clarifying jurisdiction and timelines for pre-election litigation.
The Deputy Speaker added that Nigeria’s democratic stability has implications beyond its borders, describing a stable Nigeria as a pillar of stability for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and an anchor for democratic resilience across Africa.
RLS/SAN
