By Muhammad Sani Uba
Mr Dapo Olorunyomi, Publisher of Premium Times and CEO of the Centre for Journalism, Innovation and Development (CJID), has urged Nigerians to prioritise the election of leaders with integrity, competence, and national vision as the foundation for good governance.
He spoke as Chairman of the Occasion on Thursday at a public lecture titled “Elections and Good Governance in Nigeria,” delivered by former INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Muhammadu Jega, held at Federal University Kashere (FUK), Gombe State.
Olorunyomi began by commending FUK’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Umaru Pate, for transforming the university into “a citadel of evident and remarkable growth.”
He described the campus development as both “mystifying in its scale” and a reminder that Nigeria can thrive when leadership is guided by purpose, vision, and inclusivity. “The progress visible on this campus bears the unmistakable imprint of his strength as a bold and inclusive team-builder,” he said.
Shifting to the lecture’s theme, Olorunyomi stressed that credible elections are central to good governance. While acknowledging INEC’s reforms and innovations such as BVAS and IReV, he warned that political interference, logistical gaps, and judicialised elections continue to undermine public trust. He also criticised political parties for promoting money politics, godfatherism, and unqualified candidates, noting that such practices make poor governance inevitable.
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Despite these challenges, he highlighted positive trends: rising youth engagement, civic activism, diaspora involvement, and independent media scrutiny. He also emphasized the emerging role of ethical AI and accountability journalism in strengthening electoral integrity and protecting democratic processes.
“Democracy and good governance are not abstract ideals,” Olorunyomi said. “They determine whether Nigeria can reduce poverty, ensure security, create jobs, educate its children, and unlock the creativity of its people.”
He called the 2027 general elections a watershed moment, urging citizens, institutions, and political actors to rebuild trust, strengthen institutions, and insist on credible leadership. Highlighting Nigeria’s continental significance, he added, “When Nigeria’s elections are credible and its institutions work, we strengthen democratic norms across Africa. When they falter, we embolden anti-democratic forces.”
The lecture drew scholars, policymakers, civil society leaders, and students, reaffirming FUK’s role as a hub for national discourse on democracy and governance.
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