Democracy in Nigeria is under scrutiny again, as prominent leaders express concern over its effectiveness. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, and Bishop Matthew Kukah of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese have all weighed in on the system’s shortcomings, calling for urgent reforms.
The discussion took center stage at a colloquium in Abuja to mark the 60th birthday of former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha. The event, attended by political heavyweights such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari, became a platform for critical reflection on Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Obasanjo, known for his candid views, questioned whether the Western model of democracy aligns with Africa’s needs. He argued that democracy in Nigeria and across the continent has not delivered as expected, primarily because it does not reflect indigenous governance structures.
“Democracy in Africa has failed because it is not African,” Obasanjo asserted. He recalled how traditional governance systems once prioritized community welfare but have now been replaced by a form of democracy that does not serve everyone.
According to him, representative democracy has strayed from the original idea of government being truly by and for the people. He called for a redefinition that better suits Africa’s cultural realities and ensures that governance genuinely benefits citizens. In other news, iNaijanow recently shared a post of Dangote refinery’s suspension of fuel supply in Nigeria for cogent reasons.
Obi echoed these sentiments, stating plainly: “Democracy is not working in Nigeria.” Drawing from his own experience, he recalled his impeachment as Anambra State Governor and how he reclaimed his mandate without resorting to bribery. He urged Nigeria to consider alternative models, such as Indonesia’s proportional representation system, which he believes would create a fairer political environment.
Bishop Kukah approached the topic from a different angle, focusing on how religion has been weaponized in Nigerian politics, hindering democratic progress. He noted that while no system of governance is perfect, Nigeria’s democracy has been particularly vulnerable to manipulation.
“We inherited a system that is not ours, but that doesn’t mean it is irrelevant,” he said, emphasizing that democracy is a continuous process that requires adaptation. He also highlighted the immense pressure placed on judges, especially during elections, making it difficult for them to uphold justice.
Tambuwal, who has been involved in both legislative and executive arms of government, acknowledged that democracy in Nigeria remains a work in progress. However, he emphasized that much of its success depends on political actors respecting the rules and playing their roles responsibly.
He referenced past instances where emergency rule was declared in states and how the National Assembly worked in unison to uphold democratic processes. This, he said, is evidence that democracy can work when institutions function properly.
Atiku, while not directly addressing the state of democracy, used the occasion to highlight the value of loyalty and consistency in politics. He praised Ihedioha for maintaining a long-standing political relationship with him, even when they belonged to different political parties. His remarks subtly pointed to the importance of integrity in politics, a quality that many believe is in short supply within Nigeria’s current democratic landscape.
The gathering in Abuja meant to be a birthday celebration, also became a moment of deep reflection on Nigeria’s political future. While the leaders agreed that democracy, in its current form, has significant flaws, the solutions remain up for debate. Should Nigeria adopt a new model of governance? Or should efforts focus on reforming the existing system?
These questions linger as the country grapples with various challenges. However nationalists and patriots believe through constitutional reforms, stronger institutions, and a shift in political culture, Nigeria will become the democratic role model of Africa.
