Magaji Mato, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, has asserted that the outcomes of Nigeria's forthcoming elections will be determined by the electorate rather than political office holders, coinciding with a surge in consultations and alignments in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
In an interview aired on ARISE News recently, Mato highlighted that the increasing political interactions among opposition leaders reflect the rising public appetite for change, urging that these movements should not merely be dismissed as the work of elites.
He maintained that the political clout held by governors and others in power does not ultimately dictate electoral results, emphasizing that the voting public remains the critical determinant in a democratic setup.
"Nigerians are moving away from the belief that the presence of governors and ministers in a political party eliminates any viable opposition. This perspective has changed over time, evidenced by the fact that it is the electorate who choose their leaders, not the governors. After all, a governor only has one vote, while the voters collectively decide who their leader should be," he stated.
Mato also correlated recent political events in Kano with the widespread public discontent under the current administration, viewing them as early signals of potential shifts in the political landscape.
He expressed confidence concerning the integrity of the forthcoming electoral process, highlighting the importance of impartiality from election management bodies and law enforcement agencies in ensuring a fair contest.
"I believe strongly in the role of INEC, and I appeal to the APC-led administration to foster an environment where democracy can flourish, allowing all governmental functions, particularly INEC, to operate independently so the electoral processes are respected," Mato remarked.
He further elaborated that the ongoing political dialogues signal a long- awaited change in the nation's democratic framework, indicating that there is growing pressure for new leadership.
"The combination that is forming now is what many Nigerians have desired within our political terrain for a long time. People are searching for a shift in direction," he said.
Addressing rumors of division within the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Mato dismissed these claims, insisting that current developments reflect a broader political dynamic rather than internal strife.
" It's crucial to understand that within NNPP, we are united. We only face distractions from those attempting to hinder our progress and obstruct the benefits for all involved," he emphasized.
He also warned against recent amendments to electoral regulations, cautioning that any legislative changes favoring one party could compromise democratic fairness.
"The amendments recently introduced by the APC-led government and the National Assembly have not been well received by the public and appear to be aimed at entrenching a one-party system in Nigeria. Ultimately, how laws are framed will not determine the outcome; it is the reality on the ground that will decide the election results," he added.
On the issue of possible party shifts by notable political figures, Mato reaffirmed that legal frameworks allow politicians to adjust their affiliations within specified timeframes.
"Upon defecting to another party, an individual must resign their current position and register with the new party as stipulated by the electoral act. That process is actively being facilitated," he explained.
He noted that political rallies, showcasing support and strength, are routine facets of a functioning democracy.
"Politics operates like a marketplace. Each player aims to display their strengths and convince supporters that their offerings surpass those of others, allowing voters to make informed choices," he said.
Mato concluded by stressing that the upcoming electoral cycle would be crucial for evaluating the robustness of Nigeria's democratic institutions, insisting that the preferences of the electorate must take precedence in determining leadership outcomes.
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