Nigeria Yet to Fulfill Democratic Promise, Say Leading Voices
On the anniversary of June 12, 1993, key Nigerian figures gathered to discuss the nation’s unfulfilled democratic promises. Political economist Prof. Pat Utomi and advocate Dr. Wahab Shittu emphasized the need for genuine reforms and accountability. Calls were made for the INEC headquarters to be renamed in honor of MKO Abiola while discussing the slow progress towards ideal democracy.
In a recent gathering in Lagos, prominent Nigerians voiced concerns about the nation’s struggle to fulfill democratic promises more than 30 years after the pivotal June 12, 1993, presidential election. During the annual June 12 National Dialogue, organized by the Eminent Patriots of Nigeria, political economist Prof. Pat Utomi expressed a blend of optimism and disappointment regarding Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Utomi, addressing the theme “Democracy without a Democratic Constitution: Which Way for Nigeria?”, lamented the persistent challenges. He reflected on the sacrifices made in the fight for democracy, questioning, “When we fought for democracy, we hoped that by now Nigeria would rank among the world’s top 10 nations. But look at where we are today. Is this the democracy some died for?” Despite this, he urged Nigerians not to give up the fight for genuine reforms.
The sentiment was echoed by several participants who called for a renewed commitment to establishing democratic ideals and accountability in governance. Senior advocate Dr. Wahab Shittu advocated for President Bola Tinubu to name the Abuja headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission after the late Chief MKO Abiola, proposing “MKO Abiola House” as a way to honor credible elections.
Shittu further urged the government to release Abiola’s entitlements to his family, asserting that rectifying the injustices surrounding the annulment of the June 12 election would also alleviate the pain experienced by the Abiola family. He stated, “Abiola and his family were wronged by the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election… The Federal Government should release all entitlements and monies due to Abiola’s family to correct this injustice.”
Additionally, Shittu emphasized the necessity of a people-driven constitution, criticizing the current state of democracy as flawed. He described Nigeria’s democracy as fraught with issues like “cash-and-carry” and “democracy by anointment”, stressing, “We need a people-driven, not military-imposed, constitution. Nigerians must embrace a democratic culture where they determine their future without inducements.”
Other notable speakers included former Minister of Finance Dr. Idika Kalu, along with members from The Patriots. Kalu examined the ongoing challenges, suggesting that Nigerians should still appreciate the existing governance structures while being realistic about the slow progress toward an ideal democracy. He asserted, “We must resist forces working against our national interest. United as one country, no foe can conquer Nigeria.”
Nevertheless, some attendees expressed discontent. Gboyega Adejumo remarked that there was little worth celebrating on June 12, simply labeling it as a day for commemoration rather than celebration. Meanwhile, Mike Omeri argued that June 12 should remind Nigerians of the need for a true federation where all regions work together for the country’s betterment.
Overall, the event underscored a collective yearning for a more robust and genuine democratic framework in Nigeria—a hope that continues to struggle against palpable delays in the nation’s political evolution.
The calls reinforced by speakers at the June 12 National Dialogue highlight a crucial crossroad for Nigeria as it seeks to fulfill the democratic aspirations born from its past. There is a strong desire for institutional reforms, accountability, and a truly representative constitution that reflects the will of the people. Despite the ongoing challenges, many remain hopeful that, with continued struggle, the country can realize a better democratic future.
Original Source: punchng.com
