By Nefishetu Yakubu
National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions through evidence-based research, policy dialogue and sustained stakeholder engagement.
The institute’s Director-General, Prof. Abubakar Sulaiman, made the commitment during a public lecture entitled: “Influence of Caucus on Internal Democracy in Nigeria: Insights from APC and PDP Party Primaries”.
Represented by Director, Legislative Centre for Security Analysis, Prof. Zubairu Dagona, Sulaiman described caucus politics as a critical issue shaping Nigeria’s democratic landscape and internal party governance.
He said caucuses provided platforms for consultation and consensus building, adding that excessive influence promoted godfatherism, weakened internal democracy and limited grassroots participation and accountability.
According to him, democratic governance depends not only on credible elections but also on transparent, inclusive and credible internal party processes through which candidates successfully emerge.
Sulaiman stressed that strengthening internal party democracy remained essential for promoting accountable leadership, enhancing political participation, consolidating democratic institutions and sustaining public confidence across Nigeria.
The keynote speaker, Prof. James Jacob, examined political party caucuses’ role in APC and PDP candidate selection, highlighting implications for internal democracy, party cohesion and governance.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Jacob, a Professor of Political Science, University of Abuja and Sabbatical Staff, Department of Democracy and Governance, NILDS, delivered the keynote address during the lecture.
NAN also reports that the lecture attracted researchers, academics and other stakeholders who deliberated onpractical reforms aimed at strengthening internal party democracy and transparency across Nigeria.(NAN)
(www.nannews.ng)
NY/WAS
Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq