Nigerians have yet to fully experience the benefits of democracy, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders in the country’s electoral process. This issue was at the heart of 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, observed that despite signs of democratic consolidation, the system has failed to meet citizens’ needs. He called for institutional reforms, greater civic participation, and stronger accountability mechanisms to bridge the gap between governance and public expectations. Egwu stressed that democracy and good governance are inseparable, citing the World Bank’s shift from skepticism to support for democratic systems.
The conference emphasized the need to rethink liberal democracy and adapt it to local realities. Egwu noted that successive administrations have often 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 must pursue a genuine democratization agenda and adhere to a constitution that commits to social democracy.
A major challenge identified was the excessive centralization of power in the executive, which undermines Nigeria’s federal system and leaves local governments powerless and disconnected from citizens.
Stakeholders such as Ezenwa Nwagwu, Executive Director of PAACA, and Dr. Husseini Abdu, Country Director of CARE International, highlighted the importance of linking democracy with accountability and citizen participation. They warned that periodic elections alone do not define democracy, and the failure to ensure broader participation has eroded confidence in the electoral process.
Former presidential candidate Dr. Gbenga Olawepo‑Hashim added that many Nigerians are losing faith in democracy because it has not improved their lives. He called for a truly independent electoral body and a political system that guarantees credible elections and accountable governance.
Overall, the conference reinforced the urgency of addressing these challenges to ensure that Nigerians can fully experience the benefits of democracy.
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