Nigerian activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju has expressed concerns over the state of democracy in the country, particularly at the subnational levels, as Nigeria marks its 65th independence anniversary. According to Adeyanju, democracy appears to be concentrated in the capital city, Abuja, with little presence at the state and local levels.
Adeyanju criticized state governors for wielding excessive power with minimal accountability, citing the lack of enforcement of the Supreme Court’s judgment on local government autonomy. He noted that the judiciary’s intervention was crucial in preventing the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from being crippled by 19 state governors less than a year ago.
The activist lawyer also pointed out that only a few ministers in President Bola Tinubu’s administration are actively working, with the rest being largely invisible. He emphasized that a country of Nigeria’s size and challenges cannot afford to have “ghost ministers.” Adeyanju stressed that true democracy must be rooted in accountability at all levels, not just in the federal capital.
On the issue of insecurity, Adeyanju urged the current leadership to take urgent action to strengthen internal and territorial security, enabling citizens to feel safe in their homes, on the roads, and within their communities. He noted that the frequent reports of “unknown gunmen” unleashing terror across the nation are a major concern.
Adeyanju’s statement highlights the need for Nigeria to focus on building a nation where democracy, accountability, and security are a reality for all citizens, not just a privileged few. As the country celebrates its independence, the activist lawyer’s comments serve as a reminder of the challenges that still need to be addressed to ensure a more stable and secure future for Nigerians. With the country’s leadership facing numerous challenges, the need for effective governance and accountability at all levels remains a pressing concern.
