As Nigeria commemorates another Democracy Day, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the country’s democratic journey since the end of military rule.
Being Africa’s most populous country and one of its largest economies, Nigeria has its democratic progress filled with a wide continental trend in governance.
From Military Rule to Democratic Governance. Nigeria’s change from military to civilian rule has been a good turning point in its political history. Democracy in Nigeria has brought about improvements over military rule, particularly in terms of freedom of expression and media.
Under civilian rule, Nigerians enjoy the liberty to speak out and engage in public discourse without fear of government retribution. This freedom is essential for accountability and an informed citizenry.
Nigeria officially embraced democracy in 1999, ending decades of military dictatorships that had suppressed political freedom and governance. This change opened the doors for a more inclusive and participatory political system, albeit with its own set of challenges.
When compared to other African nations, such as South Africa, Nigeria’s democratic journey has been different. South Africa’s transition from apartheid to a democratic regime in 1994 was a global event, showing the power of reconciliation and the establishment of a solid constitutional democracy.
In contrast, Nigeria has faced challenges in creating national unity within its complex social space, comprising over 200 ethnic groups.
Both Nigeria and South Africa have faced issues of electoral violence, one-party dominance, and voter dynamics. Nigeria’s elections have often been marred by violence, voter intimidation, and ballot rigging, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
South Africa, while not immune to these issues, has managed to maintain a relatively peaceful electoral environment.
Internationally, Nigeria’s democratic standing is mixed. The country performs in the mid-range regarding representation, rights, and participation, but falls in the low range for the rule of law. It ranks in the top 25% of countries globally in civic engagement but is in the bottom 25% for several factors related mainly to rights.
Important Benchmarks in Nigeria’s Democracy
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1999: The election of Olusegun Obasanjo as president heralded the Fourth Republic, bringing an end to military rule and starting a new chapter of civilian governance.
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2003: President Obasanjo’s re-election for a second term, reinforcing the democratic process.
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2007: The election of Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, although his tenure was cut short by his untimely death in 2010.
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2010: Goodluck Jonathan became president, emphasizing the constitutional provision for succession.
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2015: The peaceful transfer of power to Muhammadu Buhari, pointing out the first time an incumbent president was defeated in an election.
- 2023: Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office as the 16th President of Nigeria, succeeding Muhammadu Buhari.
Despite the establishment of democratic institutions, Nigeria has faced issues such as electoral malpractices, corruption, and a lack of solid political inclusion.
However, there have been notable improvements in areas like economic growth, with Nigeria’s GDP growing six-fold since the return to democracy.
The country has also seen advancements in civil liberties, although challenges remain in regions affected by insurgency.
Voices of Political Analysts
Dr Leena Koni Hoffmann, an Associate Fellow at Chatham House, notes that while Nigeria has a democratic constitution and federal system modelled on the US, it still faces entrenched corruption and weak democratic institutions.
Similarly, the United States Institute of Peace highlights the need for a reset of Nigeria’s democracy, emphasizing the role of the youth and civil society in demanding change.
Nigeria’s democracy is at a crossroads. The need for political reforms, stronger institutions, and genuine political inclusion is highly necessary.
The Nigerian experience teaches that democracy is not just about holding elections but also about strengthening institutions, ensuring the rule of law, and enabling civic engagement.
The importance of addressing socio-economic disparities and corruption is also important, as these issues can undermine democratic values and citizen trust in the system.
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