Paragraph 1: A Gathering of Concerned Voices
A distinguished assembly of Nigerian leaders, including former governors, public office holders, and influential figures, convened in Abuja to mark the 60th birthday of former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha. The occasion, chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, transformed into a critical examination of Nigeria’s democratic trajectory. The gathering, which included prominent figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, expressed deep concerns about the perceived decline in democratic standards within the nation. The colloquium, titled "Is Democracy Failing in Africa?", set the stage for a frank and sometimes impassioned discussion on the state of democracy in Nigeria and the continent at large. Bishop Matthew Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese delivered the keynote address, lamenting that the current system appeared to benefit only a select few.
Paragraph 2: Kukah’s Keynote and the Challenges of Inherited Systems
Bishop Kukah’s address highlighted the inherent challenges of adopting a Western democratic model within the African context. He argued that while the inherited system held relevance, it required adaptation to suit the unique cultural and societal dynamics of the continent. Kukah pointed to the immense pressure placed on the judiciary, particularly during elections, as evidence of systemic strain. He recounted anecdotes of being personally contacted by individuals seeking influence over judicial outcomes, underscoring the vulnerability of the justice system to external pressures. He also emphasized the contentious nature of democracy, drawing parallels with religious texts like the Bible and Koran, which, despite providing moral guidance, haven’t prevented human fallibility. Kukah urged politicians to embrace constructive disagreement, referencing the dynamic between Obasanjo and Atiku as an example of a relationship that, despite differences, contributed to democratic discourse.
Paragraph 3: Obi’s Rebuttal and the Erosion of Democratic Progress
Peter Obi challenged Kukah’s assertion that Nigerian democracy was simply a work in progress. He argued that significant strides had been made since 1999, with successive leaders building upon the foundations laid by their predecessors. However, Obi lamented that recent developments had effectively dismantled this progress, leading to a state of dysfunction. He recounted personal experiences to illustrate the decline, contrasting the impartiality of the judiciary during his governorship challenge with the perceived politicization of the courts in recent times. Obi emphasized that he attained his governorship through the courts without any financial inducement, a scenario he believed unlikely in the current climate. He expressed concern over the growing interference of the executive branch in judicial matters, citing hypothetical scenarios where presidential influence could obstruct justice.
Paragraph 4: Reflections from Obasanjo, Atiku, and Tambuwal
Former President Obasanjo contributed to the discourse by defining the current system as "representative democracy," a departure from the ideal of direct democracy envisioned by Abraham Lincoln. He argued that this representative form had failed to adequately address the needs of all citizens, particularly in the African context. Obasanjo advocated for a more contextually relevant model that incorporated African cultural values and practices. Atiku Abubakar, reflecting on his political journey, recalled the sacrifices made for democratic ideals, including his own exile during the Abacha regime. He commended Ihedioha’s loyalty and dedication, highlighting the importance of maintaining relationships across political divides. Aminu Tambuwal, former Sokoto State Governor, stressed the importance of adherence to democratic principles by all actors. He criticized the recent state of emergency imposed on Rivers State by President Tinubu and the National Assembly’s approval of the measure, arguing that it was unconstitutional.
Paragraph 5: Anyaoku’s Call for Constitutional Review and True Federalism
Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, advocated for a comprehensive review of the 1999 Constitution. He emphasized the need to address structural flaws and embrace true federalism to effectively manage national issues. Anyaoku warned against the potential for backsliding into authoritarianism, citing recent coups in Mali and Niger as cautionary tales. He also criticized the conduct of Nigerian politicians, accusing them of prioritizing the acquisition of power over the welfare of the citizenry. Anyaoku maintained that only stable democratic governance could pave the way for development and rid the country of its persistent crises. He stressed the importance of Nigeria, as a leading African nation, in shaping a positive narrative about democracy on the continent.
Paragraph 6: A Contrasting View from the House Speaker
House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas presented a more optimistic perspective. While acknowledging the significant challenges facing Nigeria, he maintained that the country was making steady progress in its democratic journey. Abbas argued that democracy, though a process, had become an accepted model of leadership and was being consolidated within the nation. He emphasized the importance of periodic elections as a cornerstone of democratic practice. This contrasting viewpoint highlighted the ongoing debate about the health and trajectory of democracy in Nigeria, with some emphasizing the erosion of democratic norms while others pointed to signs of continued progress and consolidation.
