Prominent Nigerians, including former governors and public figures, raised alarms over the deteriorating state of democracy in Nigeria at a recent colloquium. Key speakers like Bishop Kukah and Peter Obi emphasized the need for constitutional reform and accountability within the political system. While there are concerns about setbacks, some, including House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, argued that Nigeria’s democracy is evolving positively despite facing significant challenges.
On Monday, a group of prominent Nigerians, including former governors and public officials, expressed concern regarding the decline of democracy in Nigeria during a colloquium to celebrate the 60th birthday of former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha. The event took place at the Abuja Intercontinental Hotel and was chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Attendees included notable figures such as former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and the former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.
In his keynote address titled ‘Is Democracy Failing in Africa?’, Bishop Matthew Kukah lamented that Nigeria’s democracy primarily benefits a select few individuals. He highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding the efficacy of the Nigerian Constitution, which he argued has exerted excessive pressure on the judiciary. Kukah stated, “There was pressure on judges to deliver justice. I agree that there’s an urgent need to clean up the mess. Democracy is about everything, and it’s about justice.”
Kukah urged politicians to learn from the complex relationship between Obasanjo and Atiku, emphasizing that such dynamics can strengthen democracy. He articulated, “The weaponization of religion is a big problem in Nigeria. Democracy is a work in progress.” Nonetheless, Obi countered Kukah’s assessment, asserting that efforts initiated by progressive leaders post-1999 had been undermined, leading to the current collapse of democratic structures.
Obi articulated his disappointment with the current state of democracy, referencing his experiences during his impeachment as Anambra governor, where he received unexpected support from then-President Obasanjo. He remarked how, unlike earlier instances, present-day political dynamics do not foster such collaborations or goodwill, stating, “Now, the President would ask me not to come back here again. So, democracy has failed.”
Former President Obasanjo criticized the current state of democracy in Africa, characterizing it as a mere representation of the ideal. He indicated that “democracy in Africa has failed because it’s not African; it didn’t encompass our culture and ways of life.” Atiku reflected on his personal sacrifices for democratic rule, affirming his relationship with Ihedioha despite political differences.
Former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal expressed optimism about Nigeria’s democratic prospects, stating that adherence to democratic principles could lead to improvement. He chastised the recent unconstitutional state of emergency in Rivers State. Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, called for a review of the 1999 Constitution, emphasizing the necessity for true federalism to overcome Nigeria’s systemic challenges.
Conversely, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas contended that Nigeria is making steady progress despite its challenges. He affirmed, “democracy has come to stay in Africa and indeed Nigeria.” Abbas emphasized that democracy entails regular elections, which lie at its core and is crucial for leadership development.
In conclusion, the colloquium highlighted the urgent concerns regarding the decline of democracy in Nigeria as articulated by influential figures such as Bishop Kukah, Peter Obi, and Olusegun Obasanjo. The diverse perspectives presented underscore the necessity for systemic reform within the democratic framework, including a reexamination of the 1999 Constitution, to restore public trust and ensure the principles of justice and representation are upheld. Despite the challenges, there are also voices advocating for progress, emphasizing the resilience and potential for growth in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Original Source: punchng.com
