Nigerians are yet to fully experience the benefits of democracy, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and stakeholders in the country’s electoral process. This was the focus of discussion at a recent national conference in Abuja, titled ‘The Future of Democracy in Nigeria: Sustaining Democratic Reforms Beyond the Polls for Effective Governance’.
Professor Sam Egwu, the Benue Resident Electoral Commissioner, noted that despite signs of democratic consolidation, the system has failed to meet citizens’ needs. He emphasized the need for institutional reforms, civic participation, and accountability mechanisms to bridge the gap between governance and people’s expectations. Egwu also stressed that democracy and good governance are inseparable, citing the World Bank’s evolution from skepticism to support for democracy.
The conference highlighted the importance of rethinking liberal democracy and adapting it to local realities. Egwu pointed out that successive administrations have governed in breach of the constitution, pursuing liberal economic policies that contradict its core provisions on social welfare, health, and education. He argued that Nigeria needs to pursue a real democratization agenda and obey the constitution, which commits to social democracy.
The excessive centralization of power in the executive was also identified as a major challenge, undermining Nigeria’s federal system and leaving local governments powerless and disconnected from citizens. The conference provided a platform for reflection and dialogue on how to make Nigeria’s democratic reforms enduring and citizen-centered.
Stakeholders, including the Executive Director of PAACA, Ezenwa Nwagwu, and the Country Director of CARE International, Dr. Husseini Abdu, emphasized the need to connect democracy with accountability and citizens’ participation. They noted that periodic elections alone do not define democracy and that the failure to do so has led to the undermining of the electoral process.
Former presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, stated that many Nigerians are losing faith in democracy due to its failure to improve their lives. He called for a truly independent electoral body and political system that guarantees credible elections and accountable governance. The conference reinforced the significance of addressing these challenges to ensure that Nigerians can fully experience the benefits of democracy.