Prominent Nigerian leaders, including former President Obasanjo and Bishop Kukah, expressed concerns regarding the deteriorating state of democracy in Nigeria during a colloquium for Emeka Ihedioha’s birthday. Kukah criticized the current democratic framework for serving only a few, while Obi emphasized the regression of democratic standards since 1999. Obasanjo urged for a contextual re-evaluation of democracy in Africa. Despite these concerns, some leaders claim progress is being made.
On Monday, prominent Nigerians, including former governors and public office holders, raised concerns about the declining standards of democracy in Nigeria. They expressed their views during a colloquium at the Abuja Intercontinental Hotel, celebrating the 60th birthday of Emeka Ihedioha, chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Notable attendees included former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, and the immediate past Governor of Katsina, Aminu Masari.
In his keynote address titled ‘Is Democracy Failing in Africa?,’ Catholic Bishop Matthew Kukah emphasized that Nigerian democracy seems to benefit a select few. He pointed out that this situation has sparked debates about the relevance of the Nigerian Constitution, which has created pressure on the judiciary. Kukah remarked, “There was pressure on judges to deliver justice. I agree that there’s an urgent need to clean up the mess.”
Kukah advised politicians to emulate the resilient relationship between Obasanjo and Atiku, which he believes has contributed positively to democratic processes. He described their dynamic as akin to a Catholic marriage, enduring through conflicts. He highlighted the issues with religious exploitation in Nigeria, stating, “The weaponisation of religion is a big problem in Nigeria.”
Contrarily, Peter Obi contested Kukah’s viewpoint, asserting that Nigeria’s democracy is not progressing but rather regressing. He recalled how past leaders from 1999 tried to elevate the quality of democracy, claiming, “Everything has been knocked down. Nothing works.” Obi shared personal experiences that illustrate the current dysfunction in democratic processes, including instances of impeachment and judicial interventions that have dramatically changed.
Obasanjo articulated that Africa’s current form of democracy merely reflects a diluted version of ‘representative democracy.’ He pointed out a disconnect between African cultures and the existing democratic frameworks, asserting, “Democracy is dying in Africa and to save it, it should be made in the context of Africa.”
Atiku recounted the sacrifices leaders have made for democracy, including his exile during the Abacha regime. He praised Ihedioha for his loyalty amid differing political affiliations. Meanwhile, Aminu Tambuwal underscored citizens’ responsibility to ensure democracy works in Nigeria, criticizing recent unconstitutional measures and emphasizing that “democracy will work if the actors play by the rules.”
Emeka Anyaoku called for an urgent review of the 1999 Constitution to tackle Nigeria’s enduring issues, advocating for true federalism as a remedy. He expressed that Nigeria’s image on the international stage is at stake. Yet, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas contended that, despite challenges, Nigeria is making progress in consolidating democracy, emphasizing that consistent elections are vital for democratic leadership.
In summary, while many leaders express deep-seated concerns regarding the state of democracy in Nigeria, views differ on its progress and future. Calls for transformational change, criticism of existing frameworks, and discussions on citizens’ roles dominate the dialogue surrounding the future of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The recent colloquium highlighted a varied spectrum of views among former leaders concerning the current state and trajectory of democracy in Nigeria. Key figures criticized the ineffectiveness of governance structures and advocated for comprehensive reforms, particularly in constitutional matters. Conversely, some leaders maintained that progress is being made, arguing for the importance of continuous democratic processes. Overall, the discussion underscores a pressing need for collective action and introspection among Nigerian leaders to restore faith in the democratic system.
Original Source: punchng.com
