Fubara Blames Weak Institutions, INEC’s Selectivity for Nigeria’s Development Challenges
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has blamed weak institutions and the failure of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold its constitutional mandate as key challenges hindering Nigeria’s development.
He accused INEC of being selective in carrying out its duties, questioning why the commission failed to act in accordance with the law regarding lawmakers who defected from their party in Rivers State.
Governor Fubara, represented by former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Engr. Tele Ikuru, made these remarks at the 6th Yearly Lecture of Freedom Online, themed “Nigeria’s Socio-Political Challenges: Whose Fault—Leaders or the Led?”, held at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos State.
He emphasized the need for Nigerians to break the cycle of poor leadership, adding that ensuring credible elections is crucial for good governance.
Fubara also decried interference by law enforcement agents in the political affairs of Rivers State, stating that the rule of law cannot thrive under such conditions.
According to him, his administration has established a resource and procurement process within 18 months in office, which has significantly enhanced transparency and accountability in governance.
The governor further declared his full support for the Federal Government’s completion of the East-West Road, which he believes will transform the entire region.
Chairman of the occasion and former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Olabode George, traced Nigeria’s electoral challenges to 1962. He lamented that despite decades of experience, the country has failed to reform its electoral system.
He urged Nigerians to abandon the culture of verbal abuse and focus on constructive dialogue, noting that the country’s underdevelopment—despite its vast mineral resources—is a consequence of persistent leadership failures.
In his welcome remarks, the Publisher of Freedom Online, Mr. Gabriel Akinadewo, stressed the urgent need for judicial and political reforms.
He observed that after 26 years of unbroken democratic practice, Nigeria’s system remains flawed and far from commendable.
Akinadewo recalled that election disputes in the Second Republic were resolved swiftly and based on justice, unlike the prolonged litigations witnessed today.
Meanwhile, the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, called for the immediate removal of the current INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.
Speaking at the event, Adams argued that it is unprecedented for an INEC Chairman to oversee three general elections in Nigeria.
He also lamented the weak opposition in the country, stating that both leaders and the electorate share responsibility for Nigeria’s challenges and lack of development.
Adams alleged that over ₦35 billion was spent on voter inducement during the Edo and Ondo governorship elections, describing the process as a “highest bidder” contest. He warned that this could be a precursor to what will happen in 2027.
On his part, Prof. Akinyemi Onigbinde of the Centre for Policy and Development Studies, Ogun State, expressed disappointment that former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd.), was rewarded with ₦17 billion during the launch of his memoir in Abuja, despite his role in setting back Nigeria’s democratic process.
He argued that such a gathering should have been a moment of sober reflection rather than a celebration, noting that some of those responsible for the country’s political woes were present at the event.
Prof. Onigbinde also warned against the monetization of politics, urging Nigerians to reject politicians who seek to buy their conscience with money and gifts during elections.
