October 07, (THEWILL) – The state of democracy in Nigeria presents a complex picture, with both positive aspects and significant challenges that affect its effectiveness in promoting sustainable development. Nigeria has had several consecutive peaceful transfers of power through elections since the return to democracy in 1999, which shows a level of institutional continuity. The most recent 2023 elections, for example, marked the seventh democratic transition, indicating that the country has maintained a consistent democratic framework.
There is an active multi-party system with numerous political parties, providing voters with a variety of choices. Nigeria’s political landscape also continues to evolve, with a growing call for youth involvement and better representation of marginalized groups. Nigeria has a vibrant civil society and an active media, which play crucial roles in advocating for government accountability, transparency, and reforms. Despite challenges, both media and civil society organizations remain relatively influential in shaping the democratic discourse.
While elections take place regularly, allegations of electoral malpractices, voter suppression and vote-buying remain major problems. Issues like violence during elections, manipulation of results, and limited voter participation in some regions erode trust in the electoral process. Corruption remains a pervasive challenge in Nigeria’s governance, undermining democratic institutions and the rule of law. Despite anti-corruption efforts, such as the establishment of bodies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the political elite’s impunity often hinders real progress in governance.
Nigeria’s democratic institutions (judiciary, legislature, and electoral bodies) often lack the independence and capacity to function effectively. Political interference can weaken these institutions, limiting their ability to enforce accountability or promote policy continuity necessary for long-term development. Deep-rooted ethno-religious divisions continue to influence politics, often leading to political instability and violence. Additionally, widespread insecurity, particularly from groups like Boko Haram, banditry, and communal conflicts, diverts resources from development efforts and disrupts governance.
Nigeria’s democracy has not translated into equitable economic development. High levels of poverty, unemployment, and inequality persist despite Nigeria’s vast natural resources. Poor governance, exacerbated by corruption and weak institutional frameworks, hampers the country’s ability to invest in sustainable infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The democratic process has made some gains in areas such as civil liberties and freedom of expression, but basic services like education, healthcare, and housing remain underdeveloped. Inconsistent policies and political instability hinder long-term investment in social welfare.
Nigeria faces environmental challenges, such as oil pollution in the Niger Delta and deforestation. However, government responses to these issues are often inadequate, with limited policies in place to promote sustainable environmental practices. While Nigeria’s democracy provides a foundation for participation and political pluralism, its effectiveness in promoting sustainable development is undermined by corruption, weak institutions, insecurity, and uneven economic policies. For democracy to function more effectively in fostering long-term development, reforms are needed to strengthen institutions, improve electoral integrity, and address structural challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability.
The recent Edo State Governorship Election brings to light the challenges faced in our electoral system. Democracy does not exist and leaders are influencing elections in disgraceful ways, and federal might has been used to steal the mandate freely given to the candidate of the PDP, Asue Ighodalo.
There is no guarantee the judiciary will be fair and just in delivering judgement. The election tribunal will be an extension of the influence of federal might in determining the outcome of the election . The democratic institutions are extremely weak and corrupt.
***written by Pascal Ebhohimen
•Dr Ebhohimen is a former Director, Claims Resolution(Liquidation) Department at the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation.
