Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has advocated an Afro-centric approach to democracy, emphasizing the need for governance systems that resonate with African values and social structures.
Mr. Emmanuel made the advocacy, while delivering a keynote lecture on the theme “How can the people, power, and politics sustain peace,” during the 8th edition of the London Political Summit, held at the House of Commons, Westminster.
On that occasion, he asserted that a democracy aligned with the unique values, systems, and shared ideals of Africa would yield superior governance outcomes compared to the Eurocentric model currently practiced in Nigeria.
He emphasized that a governance framework rooted in the cultural fabric of the continent is essential for delivering services, efficiently to the people, and contended that bridging economic disparities and promoting social equity within society are crucial steps toward establishing and upholding lasting peace.
During the summit, Hon. Paul Bristow, the Member of Parliament for Peterborough and the parliamentary host, commended Mr. Emmanuel for his unwavering dedication to sustaining democracy through peaceful means and fair trade. He lauded the former Governor’s advocacy and expressed optimism that localizing democratic practices would enhance their effectiveness in various regions where democracy has been introduced.
The event witnessed the presence of dignitaries, including the President of Sierra Leone, H.E. President Julius Maada Bio, represented by the High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. Morie Manyeh; Hon. Paul Bristow; Rt. Hon. Jonathan Ashworth, Member of Parliament for Leicester South, who was honored as the Parliamentarian of the Year; current Governor of Akwa Ibom State, HE Umo Eno; Prof. Kishan Devani BEM; H.E. Prof. Pauline Long; Susan Fajana Thomas OBE; Mobin Rafiq, Chairman of Commonwealth Entrepreneurs Club;
Others were Prince Enobong Uwah; Hon. Frank Archibong; Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem; Engr. Uwem Okoko FNSE; Dr. Frank Ekpenyong; and Nsikan Etuk, Co-Chair of UK-Nigeria Police Forum, among other distinguished guests.
The London Political Summit, organized annually by Cater and Merger with Hon. Paul Bristow as the parliamentary host, is a platform for shaping discussions on democracy, peace, and socio-political harmony.
