Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, stands at a pivotal juncture in its democratic journey. While the country has made strides in building democratic institutions, deep-rooted challenges continue to undermine its promise. The 2023 presidential election, which saw Bola Ahmed Tinubu assume office with just 36.6 percent of the vote, serves as a stark reminder of the fragile state of Nigeria’s democracy. Though constitutionally valid, this outcome underscores a glaring issue: a government that struggles to reflect the true will of the people.
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At the heart of the problem lies a political culture skewed toward the elite. Public office, too often viewed as a gateway to personal gain, perpetuates systemic corruption and erodes the foundations of good governance. The presidency wields outsized power, overshadowing institutions meant to check its authority. As a result, the judiciary, legislature, and civil society frequently operate under constraints that limit their capacity to hold the executive accountable.
The ripple effects of this flawed system are felt most acutely by ordinary Nigerians. Economic mismanagement, amplified by corruption and opacity, has plunged millions into poverty. Recent economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the naira’s floating, exemplify this disconnect. While potentially necessary, these policies were implemented without adequate consultation or social safeguards, exacerbating hardship and deepening the gulf between the government and its people.
Equally troubling is the exploitation of Nigeria’s rich diversity for political gain, a practice that turns one of the country’s greatest strengths into a source of division and conflict. Politicians frequently weaponise ethnic and religious identities to consolidate power, fostering an environment of mistrust and rivalry among communities that could otherwise thrive together. This calculated manipulation deepens societal fractures, sowing discord that undermines the foundations of national unity and cohesion.
The consequences of this strategy are profound. Rather than addressing the collective needs of all Nigerians, leaders focus on pandering to narrow constituencies, perpetuating a cycle of favouritism and exclusion. Marginalised groups are left feeling abandoned, their grievances simmering beneath the surface and occasionally erupting into unrest. This erosion of inclusivity feeds a growing disillusionment among citizens, who see government institutions as tools for perpetuating inequality rather than as mechanisms for fair representation and justice.
Over time, the repeated use of divisive tactics corrodes the social fabric, creating a climate where trust in public institutions is nearly nonexistent. When citizens perceive their government as serving only select interests, their sense of belonging within the democratic framework wanes. Many withdraw from political participation altogether, viewing the system as irreparably rigged against them. This alienation poses a direct threat to Nigeria’s democratic future, as the foundation of any healthy democracy is an engaged and united populace that believes in the fairness and potential of the system to deliver for all.
To move forward, Nigeria must confront these divisive practices head-on, fostering a sense of shared purpose that transcends ethnic and religious boundaries. Only by celebrating its diversity as a unifying strength rather than a tool for manipulation can the nation begin to heal and build a truly inclusive democracy.
“While potentially necessary, these policies were implemented without adequate consultation or social safeguards, exacerbating hardship and deepening the gulf between the government and its people.”
To address these systemic challenges, Nigeria must reform its electoral process to ensure elections are free, fair, and credible, reflecting the true will of the electorate. This involves empowering independent electoral bodies and adopting measures that enhance transparency while reducing malpractice. At the same time, accountability and transparency within government must be strengthened. Anti-corruption agencies and the judiciary should be empowered to act decisively against impunity, while transparent governance practices, such as open access to public financial records, can help rebuild trust and foster greater citizen participation.
Inclusive governance must also take centre stage. Decentralising power from the presidency to local governments would enable communities to address their unique needs more effectively. Grassroots engagement and strong civil society organisations can amplify the voices of citizens, ensuring that the concerns of the people are reflected in national policies. In addition, human capital development is critical to addressing inequality and reducing poverty. Prioritising education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for all Nigerians will create a more cohesive and resilient society capable of withstanding external and internal pressures.
Read also: Ghana’s transition shows West Africa has thriving democracy Tinubu
The road to a truly representative and accountable democracy is neither quick nor easy, but it is a journey Nigeria must undertake. As the 2027 elections approach, the window for meaningful reform narrows. Civil society, international partners, and reform-minded leaders must seize this moment to advocate for systemic change.
Democracy is a pact—a covenant between the governed and their leaders. In Nigeria, that pact has been strained, if not broken. Rebuilding it requires courage, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the principles of equity, justice, and accountability. Nigeria’s future—and the broader promise of democracy across Africa—depends on getting it right.
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