The essence of Democracy is rooted in the principles of freedom, equality, and justice, enabling citizens to participate actively in governance.
June 12 is emblematic in Nigeria’s democratic journey, marking the day in 1993 when a landmark election was held, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest in the country’s history,won by the late Business Mogul,Chief MKO Kashimawo Abiola.
Though the election was annulled by the military regime, it planted the seeds of democratic awareness among Nigerians and solidified the resolve for a return to democratic governance.
Despite the challenges Nigeria has been facing in this democratic dispensation,there are some gains that we cannot overlook.
One of the most significant achievements of Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999 is the increased political participation among its citizens. Nigerians have the opportunity to vote, run for office, and engage in civic activities, fostering a sense of ownership over the political process. Citizens now have the consciousness to stand for elections,for political policies in form of manifestos on how to govern the citizenry.
Besides, Democracy has enhanced civil liberties, ensuring that freedom of speech, assembly, and association are protected. This empowerment allows citizens to express their views, challenge government actions, and advocate change without fear of repression. The country has the opportunity to debates in both chambers of the houses of Representatives and the Senate through communities representations on matters concerning each of the community and regions in the country.
With democratic structures in place, there exists a framework for accountability. Elected officials are held responsible for their actions through periodic elections with checks and balances. This mechanism, though not perfect in execution, remains a vital aspect of ensuring good governance.
Without a meaningful legislation or law, a nation will look like a jungle where everything goes. It would be like the state of nature ,which Hobbes described as solitary, nasty, brutish and short.
However,Democracy promotes the rule of law, where laws are applied equally and justly. This principle is essential for maintaining peace and order within society, protecting the marginalized groups, and fostering an environment conducive to development.
A stable democratic environment encourages foreign investment and economic growth. Democracies are generally seen as more predictable and stable, offering a more favourable climate for business ventures. We have bilateral business and economic relationships with foreign and advanced countries ,even though this has not tangibly translated to a boost in our country’s economic growth.
The question now is- Is Nigeria Truly practising Democracy?
Despite these gains, the question remains whether Nigeria practices “true democracy.” The country continues to face significant challenges, including:
- Electoral Malpractices: Issues such as vote buying, rigging, and intimidation during elections undermine the integrity of the democratic process. In fact, this aspect of our electoral system has not been helping the system but rather ,making the country stink to the outside world. Closely connected to this is endemic corruption in the electoral system.
- Pervasive corruption erodes public trust in government institutions, leading to disillusionment among citizens and undermining the principles of accountability and transparency.
It is now an open secret that Nigeria is undergoing a serious trying time with the incursion of both the local and foreign bandits and insurgents.
Insurgent groups and widespread violence have destabilized regions, impacting citizens’ ability to participate freely in the democratic process. There is fear everywhere and kidnapping has also become a pass time. This nasty and senseless incursions of bandits have adversely affected businesses,education ,morals and the social aspects of Nigerians as traders and innocent citizens are hindered from going for their daily businesses for the gear of being kidnapped. Even to worship in churches and Mosques have become a dreaded exercise.
“Though Tribe and Tongue May Defer,in Brotherhood we Stand”, is a verse in Nigeria’s National Anthem.
However, persistent ethnic and regional tensions can manipulate the political landscape, complicating national unity and hindering collective democratic progress. This is too risky and could erode the democratic system when we don’t holistically think as one nation with one destiny.
What is the way forward,?
To strengthen democracy in Nigeria, several steps can be considered.
We need an electoral reform.
Enacting comprehensive reforms to guarantee free and fair elections is crucial. This includes using technology to enhance transparency and establishing independent electoral bodies.
Also , we need fostering Civic Education. Broadening the scope of civic education to empower citizens with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities can greatly enhance democratic engagement. Whether one is educated or not,civic education for enlightenment must be employed. Periodic Town Hall Meetings at the grassroots should be put in place. It should not be a place to share bags of rice or cash but a forum to let the people know their civic duties and why they should participate in the system of electing their leaders and the reasons why they should be adequately involved positively.
Strengthening our Institutions by building robust and independent institutions that can withstand political pressures will promote the rule of law and minimize corruption.
We need to fortify our security Networks and make available adequate training for our security men and women
Both local and foreign trainings with sophisticated ammunition especially the use of drones to snuff out these intruders called bandits and insurgents must be employed for our democracy to be meaningful.
Tackling the root causes of insecurity will create an enabling environment for citizens to express their democratic rights without fear.
Addressing the grievances of marginalized communities and ensuring equitable representation in governance will enhance national cohesion and trust in the democratic process.
Inclusivity should be the watchword ,where no region or tribe is neglected.
In Conclusion, the June 12 celebration is a reminder of Nigeria’s resilience and the ongoing struggle for democracy.
While significant strides have been made, the path to achieving true democracy requires collective actions, commitment to reforms, and active engagement from all sectors of the society.
By addressing the existing challenges and fostering a political culture that values integrity, accountability, and participation, Nigeria can aspire to a more robust democracy that truly reflects the will of its people.
Nigeria will bounce back to its true,and widely acclaimed previous identity of the giant of Africa.
Happy Democracy Day. Happy June 12 Celebrations. Long live Nigeria ,Long live her Democracy.