Governor Kayode Fayemi has hailed President Muhammadu Buhari for refusing to assent to the electoral amendment bill.

“I think we all should commend the courage of Mr President to stand with the people,” Mr Fayemi said.

He reasoned that the focus should be an inclusive process, and the signing of the bill into law did not matter.

“What is governors’ interest and concern is that opportunities are given for an inclusive process. And I think that is what Mr President’s letter has brought out,” explained the Ekiti governor.

Mr Fayemi, the chair of Nigeria’s Governors Forum’ made this statement after meeting with Mr Buhari at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday.

His statement came on the heels of Mr Buhari’s rejecting of the electoral amendment bill citing direct primaries as one of the reasons for his decision.

Mr Fayemi said he and Mr Buhari had tested direct and indirect primaries and were fully aware of the two modes of elections work. He insisted that Mr Buhari’s decision was to ensure a free and fair election.

“The president, you know, just like me, is not afraid of whatever mode you decide to use. What is important is to ensure that whatever process you choose in your particular circumstance still provides a process that is as free as possible,” the governor added. “It’s not a completely free process, but at least there is something that is called substantial compliance in electoral law. And if it meets substantial compliance.”

Contrary to Mr Fayemi’s stance, human rights lawyer Femi Falana pointed out that Mr Buhari will be leaving a “tragic legacy” behind, having refused twice to assent to the electoral amendment bill.