Renowned legal and political analyst, Dr. Monday Ubani, SAN, has thrown his weight behind a proposed bill mandating compulsory voting for all eligible Nigerian citizens. The bill, which suggests a fine of N100,000 for non-participation in elections, has generated heated discussions across the country. However, Dr. Ubani contends that the objective is not to punish citizens but to enhance democratic responsibility and civic participation.
In a statement titled “In Defence of Compulsory Voting in Nigeria: A Case for Democratic Responsibility”, Ubani underscored the need for collective commitment to democracy. He argued that although concerns about personal liberty and government inefficiency are valid, they must not take precedence over the urgent need to instill civic responsibility among Nigerians.
He referenced Section 24 of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the civic duties of citizens, including loyalty to the nation and adherence to its core values. According to him, voting is one of the most significant civic duties, and making it compulsory would reinforce the democratic process.
Ubani highlighted Nigeria’s historically low voter turnout — often below 30% — as a serious threat to the legitimacy of the country’s democratic institutions. He asserted that poor voter participation opens the door to electoral manipulation, limited representation, and ineffective governance.
“When citizens opt out of elections, they weaken the legitimacy of elected leaders and create room for electoral malpractice such as vote buying,” he stated. “Mandating participation would not only broaden representation but also increase government accountability.”
Citing examples from over 20 countries, including Australia, Belgium, and Argentina, where versions of compulsory voting are in effect, Ubani noted that these democracies have witnessed enhanced voter engagement, balanced representation, and stronger institutions. In Australia, for instance, voter turnout consistently exceeds 90% due to the imposition of fines for noncompliance.
He likened the proposed N100,000 fine to other legal obligations such as tax payments or adherence to traffic laws, describing it as a necessary deterrent rather than a punishment. “Laws without consequences are meaningless. Voting, which forms the bedrock of any democracy, must be treated with equal importance,” he said.
Ubani also emphasized the potential for the bill to amplify the voices of underrepresented groups, especially those in rural or economically disadvantaged areas. He argued that universal participation would compel political candidates to develop more inclusive and issue-based campaigns.
“Leaders will be forced to address the needs of all citizens, not just a select few. When every voice counts, political discourse becomes richer and more inclusive,” he noted.
Responding to the claim that government failure discourages voting, Ubani maintained that such failures should instead inspire greater civic engagement. “The existence of bad governance should be a rallying call for more active participation, not political withdrawal,” he said.
He also proposed that the bill include exemptions for individuals genuinely unable to vote due to health, travel, or security concerns.
Concluding his defense of the legislation, Ubani argued that compulsory voting is not a violation of democratic principles but a powerful tool for their advancement. It transitions citizenship from a passive status to an active, engaged responsibility.
“Democracy is not optional. It is the cost of freedom,” he asserted. “Nigeria needs deliberate policies that drive civic involvement, legitimize governance, and ensure inclusive participation.”
He called on both lawmakers and citizens to support the bill, stressing that it represents a practical step towards securing and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic future.
