President, Mathematics for Life Foundation Mr Omoniyi Osuntuyi, and a professor of Mathematics, University of Ibadan Olabisi Ugbebor, are canvassing improved use of mathematics for the forthcoming general elections.
The duo believe that some aspects of mathematics, when integrated into the nation’s elections, would minimize fraud, and discourage Nigerians from exercising their voting rights.
Speaking at the fourth edition of Annual Mathematics Conference and Exhibition (AMCE), Ugbebor the first female professor of Mathematics in Nigeria and one of the guest speakers, lamented that all over the world, voting are exercises that when conducted properly, are meant to produce leaders loved by the majority. Therefore adoption of certain mathematical tools such as Pattern Recognition; and Markov Chain theories in some saner societies, come handy in ensuring a more transparent, swift and filtered exercise.
Unfortunately, Ugbebor said despite the achievements those theories brought to those societies, Nigerians are yet to adopt them, resulting in denial of some Nigerians particularly women and illiterates the right to exercise their franchise.
Ugbebor spoke on the topic: ‘The Mathematics of election: choices , voting and outcome’ which was also the theme of the event.
“The voting pattern hitherto is expected to shape the future. It is expected to shape what will happen in February. But this is not good enough because the premises are not Mathematical,” Ugbebor lamented.
She continued: “When I look at elections in Nigeria, what do I see? The first question I will like to ask you, recently there were more voters in one state than those who registered in another state. Is this mathematics? In another state where not everybody is literate, not one single vote was voided. So everyone got it right, is this possible?
While canvassing a general funding of education at all levels, Ugbebor sought improved funding for mathematics education, adding that a deeper understanding of the subject enhances economic prosperity.
She added: “A strong correlation exist between the understanding of mathematics and its pursuit to research on the one hand and economic prosperity on the other hand . If all these indices that affect our choices are put into place, education, good road, quality health care system etc there will be no rigging in the election because people will know the measurable and there will be no partisanship.”
For Prof. Godwin Chukwu who spoke on the sub-theme: ‘Predicting accuracy of election outcome: Impact of census data and other factors,’ canvassed voters’ education. Okeke urged INEC
Prof Chukwu also admonished INEC to go beyond paper ballot, and seek ways to educate the voters.
On his part Osuntuyi, said the theme of this year’s event was inspired by recent happenings especially the general elections next month, saying they realised that adoption of mathematics by the Independent Electoral Commission, (INEC) in past elections had done the country more damage in election results.
He said: “We, again, reiterate our firm belief based on our assessment for the practice and love for Mathematics for Nigeria, coupled with our vision to use the subject tools to make human lives better. Mathematics eradicates incidences of manipulations and rigging, thereby giving everyone the chance to make right and firm decisions.”
“In choosing the theme for this year’s event, we looked at the situation around and observed that Mathematical will serve as veritable tool in the forthcoming elections nationwide.
In the end, Okeke Favour and Obunike Michael of Loyola Jesuit College emerged winners of National Mathematics Tournament which formed a part of the event. Equally, Eyimofe Eunice and Olu-Adebayo Marwell of Deeper Life Secondary School emerged runner up. The winners weer presented with N400, 00 and N200, 00 cheque respectively by foundation.
In addition Igbokwe Kingsley, a final year Law student, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, (UNN) received the best prize for national essay competition. The outstanding performance in 2018 West Africa Examination Council, WAEC, prize was given to Okorojie David; while Ajibola Oluwatosin received prize for emerging best student at the 2018 Joint Admission Matriculation Board’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
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