Democracy in Nigeria, often lauded for its size and influence in Africa, remains deeply flawed, struggling to live up to its full potential. While elections take place regularly, the country’s democratic processes are riddled with inconsistencies that undermine their legitimacy. For democracy to function effectively, it must be rooted in two key principles: fair elections and accountable governance. However, Nigeria’s Electoral System and Political Culture often fall short of these ideals, leaving many citizens disillusioned and disconnected from the political process.
A significant problem lies in the country’s electoral system, where elections are often marred by irregularities, lack of transparency, and voter suppression. The 2023 presidential election, for example, raised questions about the integrity of the process, as millions of Nigerians were left feeling their votes did not matter. This is particularly concerning in a representative democracy, where the very essence of legitimacy is derived from the people’s vote. When a leader can emerge without securing broad-based support from the majority, the democratic foundation of the country is severely weakened.
Elections in Nigeria fail to reflect the will of the majority.
Nigeria often operates under a system of minority rule, where elections fail to reflect the will of the majority. In the most recent presidential election, for example, the winner did not represent the broader electorate, securing the presidency with support from a small portion of voters, leaving much of the population disenfranchised. This raises the question of how any government can claim to have a mandate when a significant majority did not choose it. In a true democracy, the government should reflect the collective will of the people, with leaders elected by the majority. However, Nigeria’s electoral system allows a narrow segment of the population to determine the country’s future.
Furthermore, the lack of accountability in Nigeria’s political system worsens the situation. Elected officials often act as though they are accountable only to themselves, prioritising power consolidation over serving the people. This undermines democratic governance, where officials should serve the electorate’s interests. With no effective checks and balances and no consequences for failure, public trust erodes, and citizens feel disconnected from the political process. This growing disillusionment risks deepening the divide between the government and the governed.
Constitutional reform will drive Nigeria’s democratic future.
To address these issues, Nigeria requires more than just electoral reforms; it needs a new constitution. The current framework, inherited from military rule, is outdated and ill-suited for modern democratic governance. It concentrates excessive power in the executive branch, limiting the effectiveness of the Judiciary and legislature as checks on power. In a healthy democracy, power should be distributed more evenly to ensure no single branch dominates. A new constitution would not only decentralise power but also strengthen the independence of the judiciary and legislature, allowing them to carry out their roles without undue interference.
However, constitutional reform alone will not be enough to ensure meaningful change. A shift in the mindset of the electorate is also crucial. Nigerians must move beyond merely casting their votes and begin to engage more actively with the political process. This involves staying informed about government actions, demanding greater transparency, and holding elected officials accountable. Civil Society organisations, the media, and ordinary citizens must collaborate to expose Corruption and advocate for policies that reflect the needs of the wider population. Through sustained, informed involvement, Nigerians can ensure their political system genuinely represents their interests and works for the common good..
Related Article: Russia, China, Iran against African democracy
In the end, for Nigeria to unlock its true democratic potential, it must confront the systemic challenges that undermine both representation and accountability. The country requires a political system that authentically mirrors the will of the people, where governance is centred on serving the populace rather than a privileged few. Achieving this demands comprehensive constitutional reform, coupled with increased civic participation and an unwavering commitment to transparency and fairness. Only through these transformative steps can Nigeria build a democracy that is inclusive, accountable, and responsive to the needs of all its citizens, paving the way for a future marked by stability, growth, and genuine progress.