GOKANA/Nigeria: A prominent development advocate and community leader, Mr. Suage A. Badey, has declined calls to contest the Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections, citing deep concerns over what he described as widespread electoral malpractice, political imposition and the deteriorating state of Nigeria’s democratic process.
Badey made his position known on Sunday while receiving a delegation of the Progressive Rivers Reformers (PRR), a political advocacy group that had visited him to persuade him to enter the race for the federal legislative seat.
The development advocate said his decision was informed by years of observing a political system he believes has been undermined by thuggery, manipulation and electoral fraud, making it increasingly difficult for genuine democratic ideals to flourish.
According to him, Nigeria requires far-reaching political and electoral reforms before citizens can fully benefit from democratic governance and enjoy credible representation at all levels.
“My experience over the years tells me that the Nigerian state needs a complete overhaul before the dividends of democracy can be attained through a credible electoral system and an enlightened electorate,” he stated.
Badey blamed both political actors and the electorate for the country’s governance challenges, arguing that the persistent culture of electoral malpractice and voter complacency has contributed significantly to the emergence of leaders who are often disconnected from the needs and aspirations of the people.
He lamented what he described as the absence of clear political ideologies and development-driven agendas among many politicians, noting that the trend has weakened democratic institutions and undermined public confidence in governance.
“The governed continually sell their rights by capitulating to electoral malpractices, giving rise to insensitive political actors with little or no empathy for the people.
“This unfortunate derailment is a self-inflicted consequence. The result is the emergence of a rogue democracy that does not truly reflect the aspirations of the people,” he said.
Badey stressed that free, fair and credible elections remain the foundation of good governance and sustainable development, insisting that meaningful progress can only be achieved when leaders emerge through transparent and acceptable democratic processes.
He also urged elected officials to embrace servant leadership and place the welfare of citizens above personal interests and political ambition.
The development advocate called on the people of Ogoni to remain actively engaged in the democratic process by demanding accountability from their elected representatives and encouraging responsible governance.
While appreciating the Progressive Rivers Reformers for the confidence reposed in him, Badey acknowledged the group’s belief in his capacity to provide effective representation at the National Assembly.
However, he maintained that his immediate focus remains community development, peace-building and empowerment initiatives through the Albert Badey Center for Development (ABCD Foundation), an organisation established in honour of his late father.
According to him, public service should not be viewed solely through the lens of political office, stressing that meaningful contributions to society can be made from different platforms.
“We can all serve in diverse ways, bearing in mind that service is a commitment and not a title,” he said.
Badey further urged political stakeholders in Ogoniland to set aside divisive tendencies and work collectively towards creating an atmosphere of peace, unity and development across the region.
He wished members of the Progressive Rivers Reformers success in their advocacy efforts and their campaign for a better future for Ogoni people and Rivers State.
The PRR delegation had reportedly approached Badey to seek his participation in the 2027 House of Representatives election amid growing calls from some stakeholders for Gokana Local Government Area to produce the next representative for the Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency.
His decision not to enter the race is expected to generate fresh discussions within the constituency as political consultations and permutations ahead of the 2027 elections continue to gather momentum.
