National Assembly Election: Spread of Political Parties Good For Multi-Party Democracy

A Constitutional expert has said the outcome of last Saturday’s National Assembly election might promote real multi-party democracy in Nigeria.
Lagos Lawyer Bamidele Aturu, said the two-third majority of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is now certain to be reduced. It will therefore need support of opposition parties to pass certain resolutions.

Among these are amendments to the constitution, the removal of the President, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House and the Chief Justice – as well as Chairmen of INEC and EFCC.

Aturu said because SUCH DECISIONS require 2/3rd majority of the National Assembly, multi-party consensus have to be built.But Aturu said PDP will have no problem where simple majority is required- like the appointment of Ministers.

Aturu describes the current situation as positive balance but warned that it could change in favour of PDP if politicians abandon platforms on which they were elected after the election.

Aturu said such cross-carpeting occurred in the past – and that if it happens again, PDP might regain its absolute majority.