Lack of accountability making citizens not to trust political parties – Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has pointed out that citizens’ mistrust in political parties is fueled by impunity and a lack of accountability.

Speaking at the ‘Needs Assessment of Political Parties in Nigeria’ event organized by the Kukah Centre, in collaboration with the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN), Akpabio stressed the urgency of repositioning political parties to enhance transparency and accountability.

Represented by Senator Victor Umeh, Akpabio underscored the need for this repositioning to rebuild public trust and confidence in political entities.

Akpabio acknowledged the vital role political parties play in democratic processes and governance structures but expressed concern about issues tarnishing democratic culture.

He lamented the decline in public trust, stating, “It is disheartening to witness citizens disenchanted with the very institutions that should represent their interests and safeguard their democratic rights.”

The Senate President suggested that political parties should promote transparency by publicly disclosing their expenditures.

Matthew Kukah, the founder of the Kukah Centre, added perspective by regarding the ‘Needs Assessment of Political Parties in Nigeria’ as a roadmap to address trust-related issues affecting parties.

Bishop Kukah emphasized the significance of understanding the nation’s political history to elevate politics to a “noble” pursuit. He noted that political parties serve as platforms for politicians to serve the public good, and revisiting the phases of national history would contribute to this noble pursuit.