The Department of Political Science at Lagos State University (LASU) has held its monthly seminar series, focusing on the theme “US Election: Its Strains and Strengths on Democracy.”
The August edition, which took place at the Abubakar Momoh Moot Parliament on the Ojo campus on Tuesday, August 14, 2024, attracted a diverse audience of scholars, students, and political enthusiasts eager to delve into the intricacies of the upcoming United States election.
Dr. Abdul-Wasi Moshood, the Acting Head of the Department of Political Science, kicked off the seminar by welcoming participants and emphasizing the global significance of US elections. In an interview with the Centre for Information and Public Relations (CIPR), Dr. Moshood highlighted the seminar’s dual aims: to enhance the university’s exposure and to foster academic linkages.
He stressed that democracy, being both context-based and content-based, requires leaders to act in the public’s best interest without fear or favor.
The seminar’s guest speaker, Professor Sabella Abidde from the University of Alabama, delivered a comprehensive lecture on the historical development, foundational principles, evolution, and current challenges of US elections. His insights provided a rich context for understanding the complexities and resilience of the American democratic process.
Professor Sylvester O. Akhaine, who moderated the event, underscored the seminar’s role in elevating LASU’s image as a hub of scholarship and intellectual debate. He also touched on the comparative aspects of US and Nigerian elections, particularly the potential for Nigeria to elect a female president, urging students to prioritize knowledge in this information-driven era.
The seminar concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Gafar Tobi Oshodi, marking the end of a day filled with thought-provoking discussions and debates. The event not only showcased the Department of Political Science’s commitment to academic excellence and research but also reinforced its engagement with the wider community.
The August Edition Departmental Seminar Series was a resounding success, providing a valuable platform for exploring the strengths and strains of US democracy and its implications for the global political landscape.