The Dismemberment of Democracy in Nigeria

In Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has shown significant disregard for democratic principles, evidenced by the shortcomings of the electoral commission, nepotism in government appointments, and efforts to eliminate political opposition. As the 2027 elections approach, there are growing concerns over the consolidation of power within the APC and the implications this poses for the country’s democratic future.

Democracy, by its very definition, points to equal opportunities for all citizens and bases itself on key values like accountability and rule of law. In Nigeria, how well the government respects these principles can truly indicate its success or failure. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, particularly in the last two years, has shown a troubling disregard for these foundational tenets, leading to significant failures across various societal sectors, including the economy and security governance.

One glaring issue stems from the Independent National Electoral Commission, or INEC, which has struggled to effectively execute its mandates. Since the All Progressives Congress (APC) took power in 2015, INEC has only managed to distribute Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) to about 30 percent of applicants, effectively disenfranchising millions and undermining the electoral process. This pattern has contributed to the perception that the democratic foundations of Nigeria are being compromised under the current leadership.

Further elongating the issue of governance is nepotism, particularly in high-level appointments. The Federal Character principle, designed to ensure representation from various ethnic groups, has been systematically dismissed by Tinubu’s administration. Most appointments have skewed disproportionately towards the Yoruba ethnic group, with disregard for merit or diversity, which further alienates many Nigerians from their government.

A notable instance of such nepotism is found in the controversial awarding of a substantial contract for the Lagos-to-Calabar Coastal Road project. Done without involving the National Assembly or a bidding process, this $700 billion project went to a known associate of Tinubu’s, amid claims of lawlessness—the president’s actions reflect an alarming concentration of power that sidesteps standard democratic practices.

The principle of separation of powers has also been compromised as President Tinubu appears to assume an ever-expanding scope of authority, undermining the judiciary and legislature while tightly controlling the executive branch. His approach leaves little room for checks and balances, and raises flags about the democratic climate in the country.

Additionally, Tinubu’s strategy seems intent on consolidating power by dismantling opposition, particularly targeting the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and smaller parties like the Labour Party. His administration reportedly employs tactics such as infiltrating opposition parties and stifling dissent, which poses a serious threat to democratic engagement.

Tinubu’s stance against opposing voices is further highlighted by his crackdown on civil society groups, journalists, and activists—individuals calling for accountability and progress within his administration. An eyebrow-raising event was his declaration as the uncontested presidential candidate for the APC in the upcoming 2027 elections without proper internal party votes or consultations, underscoring a blatant disregard for any semblance of democratic process.

In the coming months leading up to the 2027 elections, it is increasingly clear that Tinubu’s goal is to position the APC as the sole political party in Nigeria, effectively erasing any semblance of a pluralistic political landscape. Those who care about democracy must recognize the urgency of resisting these efforts, which seek to strip citizens of their fundamental right to vote for representatives of their choosing. Meanwhile, as various sectors of Nigerian society observe this political maneuvering with grave concern, the implications for the future of democracy in the nation loom large.

As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, President Tinubu’s administration appears to be acting against the tenets of democracy in an alarming way. Through actions like electoral manipulation and the concentration of power, the government risks establishing a one-party state with the APC at the center. It is imperative for citizens to stand firm in protecting their right to vote for their preferred candidates and ensure the principles of democracy are preserved through active engagement and resistance to autocratic governance.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com