Since the dawn of the Fourth Republic in 1999, Nigeria has embarked on a multifaceted journey of democratic governance. Spanning a quarter-century, this trajectory has witnessed a succession of administrations, each contributing its unique blend of advancements and hurdles. From the inaugural strides of President Olusegun Obasanjo to the current tenure of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria’s democratic expedition has been a narrative interwoven with progress, setbacks, and ongoing aspirations.
Democracy, derived from the Greek “dēmokratiā,” embodies the concept of “rule by the people.” It delineates a governance system wherein citizens wield power through electoral processes, ensuring the accountability of leaders and the transparency of governance. Across the globe, democratic practices manifest diversely, from the parliamentary systems of the United Kingdom and India to the federal republics of Germany and the United States. These varied frameworks underscore the adaptability of democratic principles to diverse cultural and political contexts.
Preceding the advent of the Fourth Republic, Nigeria’s governance landscape was characterized by a mosaic of military rule and fleeting civilian regimes. The ephemeral Third Republic under Ernest Shonekan was abruptly truncated by a military coup led by General Sani Abacha, amid political instability, economic vicissitudes, and human rights infringements, precipitating a pivotal transition towards stable democratic governance.
The tenure of President Olusegun Obasanjo (1999-2007) served as a cornerstone in stabilizing Nigeria post-military rule. His administration prioritized the consolidation of democratic institutions and the redressal of economic maladies. Noteworthy reforms, such as the establishment of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), aimed at combating corruption. Nonetheless, criticisms were levelled at his administration for human rights violations and endeavours to amend the constitution for a third term.
President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (2007-2010) espoused the principles of the rule of law and transparency. His administration’s initiation of the Niger Delta amnesty programme substantially quelled militancy in the region. However, his laudable reforms were truncated by health adversities, leaving many initiatives unrealized.
Under President Goodluck Jonathan (2010-2015), significant strides were made in electoral reforms and the deregulation of the power sector. Nonetheless, his administration grappled with mounting insecurity epitomized by the Boko Haram insurgency and pervasive corruption, which overshadowed some achievements.
President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure (2015-2023) was marked by a resolute anti-corruption stance and efforts to stabilize the economy. Despite initial enthusiasm, criticisms mounted over economic hardships, escalating insecurity, and perceived human rights transgressions. Persistent challenges in economic diversification and insurgency management remained focal points of contention.
President Bola Tinubu’s incumbency (2023-present) vows to address critical imperatives such as economic rejuvenation and national cohesion. The success of his administration hinges on the efficacious implementation of policies fostering inclusive growth and bolstering security.
Over the past 25 years, civil rule has yielded significant dividends for Nigeria. Democratic governance has engendered heightened political participation, institutionalized the rule of law, and fostered press freedom. Despite inconsistent economic policies, sectors like telecommunications and banking have witnessed growth. Socially, democracy has galvanized civil society activism and bolstered awareness of human rights.
However, Nigeria’s democratic sojourn has been beset by formidable challenges. Corruption persists as a formidable obstacle, eroding public trust in governance institutions. Insecurity, spanning terrorism to banditry, has stymied economic progress and displaced communities. Moreover, economic inequality has widened, with persistently high poverty and unemployment rates.
At the grassroots level, state governors and local governments play pivotal roles in entrenching democratic dividends. While some states have witnessed commendable infrastructural development and enhanced public services, others have been ensnared by mismanagement and corruption. For democracy to tangibly benefit every citizen, particularly the marginalized, local governance must be fortified through transparency, accountability, and community engagement.
Economically, Nigeria has made commendable strides in diversifying its revenue base, albeit oil continues to dominate. Politically, successive elections have witnessed greater credibility, indicative of burgeoning democratic maturity. Socially, heightened participation of women and youth in politics signals a shift towards more inclusive governance.
To consolidate gains and address lingering challenges, Nigeria must prioritize fortifying institutions to combat corruption and uphold the rule of law, diversifying the economy through investments in agriculture, technology, and renewable energy, devising holistic strategies to combat insurgency and crime, and empowering local governments through participatory governance and equitable resource allocation.
Nigeria’s 25-year odyssey of democratic governance epitomizes a tapestry woven with both progress and enduring challenges. As the nation continues its journey, leveraging its democratic successes is imperative to fostering inclusive growth, bolstering security, and ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach every citizen, particularly the most vulnerable. The future of Nigeria’s democracy hinges on collective endeavours to fortify institutions, enhance accountability, and sustain the momentum for positive transformation.
June 12, now commemorated as Democracy Day, is a significant day in Nigeria’s democratic narrative. It commemorates the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely hailed as Nigeria’s fairest and most transparent electoral process. This day serves as a reminder of the nation’s arduous struggle for democracy and the sacrifices entailed, underscoring an unwavering commitment to uphold democratic ethos and principles.
However, the 25 years cannot be said to be Uhuru until Nigeria and Nigerians feel the impact of what democracy stands for. Until elections can be adjudged free, as it was on June 12, 1993. We at Ndokwa Reporters, therefore, remind the present government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that Nigerians are suffering. Yes, in his speech, he said he “Feels our Pains.” It has to go beyond mere statements. We also have to remind the Governors of the 36 States in the country of their responsibilities in providing for the citizenry. We must work, talk, and implement Democratic Policies that will improve our lives and the image of the country.
