Former Governor of Lagos State and ex-Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, has advised the opposition against continuously faulting election results, reminding them that elections are inherently imperfect processes across the world.
Speaking at a public lecture in Lagos, Fashola urged political actors to focus on strengthening democratic institutions rather than contesting outcomes indefinitely. He emphasized the need for maturity in accepting electoral results while working towards improvements in the system.
“Stop faulting the outcome. Elections are imperfect,” Fashola stated. “No election anywhere in the world is perfect. What matters is that we have a process, and we must continue to improve it rather than undermine the will of the people expressed at the polls.”
The senior advocate highlighted the progress made in Nigeria’s electoral system, citing incremental reforms and the role of the judiciary in resolving disputes. He called on opposition parties to channel their energies into policy alternatives and good governance at the state and local levels instead of perpetual litigation and rejection of results.
Fashola further noted that democracy thrives on participation and resilience, not perfection, and urged all stakeholders to support the growth of Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“Let us stop the culture of always faulting outcomes. Elections are imperfect, but they remain the best way we have chosen to select our leaders. The opposition should focus on winning the trust of Nigerians through better ideas and performance.”
The remarks have generated reactions from political stakeholders, with some commending the call for maturity while others maintain the need for electoral transparency and reforms.