From Ijeoma John, Nnewi
The former Spokesman of the People’s Democratic Party(PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh has called for urgent reforms of party system in Nigeria.
He made this call on Thursday, 24th of July, 2025, during a Maiden International Conference of the Department of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences,Nnamdi Azikiwe University,Awka, Anambra State.
Chief Metuh who spoke on the theme,”Africa at Crossroads: Confronting Governance, Security and Development Challenges in the 21st Century”,said without institutionalizing Nigeria’s political parties,good governance, security and real development would not be achieved.
He noted that strong institutions, especially political parties remained vital for sustainable development,adding that Nigeria’s political parties lack the depth and maturity to stabilize governance.
“Adopting multi-party systems in many African countries, including Nigeria had failed to achieve the development gains expected, Even elder statemen like Obasanjo and Mbeki question whether western democracy models can truly work for Africa without internal reforms” he disclosed.
Metuh enumerated what he coined as “Metuh Doctrine for Party Institutionalization” as: restoring political parties ideological frameworks, enforcing manifestos, banning political defections, institutionalizing zoning, reforming party fundings, and educating the public on ideology, manifestos, and political accountability to deepen civic engagement.
As a grassroots community Organizer in Nnewi, Metuh said if they truly need development in Anambra State,the next Governor should support the Metuh Doctrine by strengthening democracy instead of chasing power.
“Anambra deserves a party system that works,not one that divides us or recycles broken leadership. This election is our chance to choose not just a Governor, but a path.Let’s choose the path that builds institution not just individuals” he added.