By Chesa Chesa
The Senate Majority Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, has defended the inclusion of the consensus option in Nigeria’s Electoral Act, insisting that the process remains transparent and firmly rooted in democratic principles.
Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly, spoke in Abuja on Monday night after observing the submission of nomination forms by aspirants on the platform of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2026 general elections.He described the level of supervision of the process by party leaders as a positive sign of commitment to internal democracy.
“I would say so far, so good. It’s good to see everyone who is supposed to be seated present, and virtually all members of the National Working Committee are here, other than the chairman and the national secretary,” he said, noting that the turnout underscores the importance attached to the ongoing political process.
The lawmaker, who played a key role in the passage of the 2026 Electoral Act, addressed concerns surrounding the consensus method of candidate selection, clarifying that it does not replace democratic voting.
According to him, the Act provides for two modes of primary elections—direct primaries and consensus—both of which require participation at the grassroots level.
“In any case, there will always be primaries. Even where there is only one aspirant or a consensus candidate, members will still go to their wards for endorsement. Nothing can be done under the table,” Bamidele explained.
He emphasized that consensus candidacy is only valid where all stakeholders are in agreement, stressing that any dissent automatically triggers direct primaries.
“Where even one person disagrees with the consensus approach, there must be primaries. That ensures fairness and inclusiveness,” he added.
Responding to concerns from parts of Ekiti State where consensus arrangements have generated controversy, Bamidele acknowledged that the process may not always be smooth but maintained that it remains a legitimate democratic option.
“It’s relative. There are places where consensus has been unanimous and smooth, and others where it has not. In my own case, stakeholders in my district expressed satisfaction with my representation and chose not to contest against me without any form of coercion,” he said.
The Senate Leader, who recently submitted his expression of interest and nomination forms, reiterated that consensus should be seen as a voluntary agreement among party stakeholders rather than an imposed outcome.
“A consensus is only a suggestion. Where there is disagreement, the law is clear—there must be primaries. Anyone who wants to contest will be given that opportunity,” he stated.
