By Taiwo Oluwadare
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, is often described as a democratic country. However, the manner in which political power is wielded by a select few raises serious questions about the true nature of its governance. Democracy, in its ideal form, is a system where power belongs to the people, who exercise it directly or through elected representatives. But in Nigeria, the political landscape suggests otherwise. The overwhelming control by a privileged few—the political elite—mirrors the traits of an oligarchy rather than a democracy.
Electoral Process: A Flawed System
A fundamental pillar of democracy is the electoral process, where citizens participate freely in choosing their leaders. Unfortunately, Nigeria’s elections have repeatedly been marred by allegations of vote rigging, voter suppression, and violence. Reports from both local and international observers indicate that elections are often decided long before citizens cast their votes. Ballot box snatching, voter intimidation, and vote-buying have become rampant, raising doubts about the legitimacy of those who emerge victorious.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), tasked with ensuring free and fair elections, has been accused of bias and inefficiency. Cases of election results being manipulated to favor certain candidates have further eroded public trust in the system. This manipulation implies that political offices are not earned through genuine public support but through orchestrated schemes controlled by a powerful few.
Governance: Rule by a Few
Once elected, Nigerian leaders—especially the President and state Governors—govern with near-absolute authority. The principles of checks and balances, essential for a functioning democracy, are often disregarded. Governors run their states with minimal consultation with the people or their representatives, and the President exerts significant influence over the judiciary, legislature, and security agencies.
Legislative bodies, meant to act as watchdogs, frequently operate under the influence of the executive arm. Lawmakers often align with the President or Governors rather than holding them accountable. As a result, policymaking and governance become exclusive privileges of the ruling class, sidelining the masses.
Implications: Weak Institutions and Impunity
One of the most detrimental consequences of Nigeria’s pseudo-democracy is the weakness of its institutions. Rather than being independent bodies that uphold the rule of law, institutions like the judiciary, anti-corruption agencies, and law enforcement are often weaponized against political opponents and critics. The rich and powerful evade justice, while ordinary citizens suffer the consequences of a broken system.
Impunity has thrived, as seen in various cases of corruption and abuse of power. The recent petition by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio over alleged sexual harassment is a glaring example. Similarly, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa of Lagos State has faced numerous corruption allegations, yet remains in power. These cases highlight a pattern where those in power operate above the law, reinforcing the belief that Nigeria functions more as an oligarchy than a democracy.
The Way Forward: Restoring Democratic Ideals
For Nigeria to transition into a true democracy, significant reforms are necessary. Strengthening electoral laws, ensuring the independence of INEC, and deploying technology to minimize electoral fraud are crucial steps. Additionally, institutions must be empowered to function without executive interference, and legal mechanisms should be enforced to hold leaders accountable.
Civic engagement is also essential. Citizens must demand transparency and accountability from their leaders. Protests, advocacy, and active participation in governance can help challenge the current system and push for a more inclusive government.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s current governance structure leans more toward oligarchy than democracy. The concentration of power among a few individuals, a flawed electoral system, and weak institutions undermine the principles of democracy. Unless urgent steps are taken to address these issues, the dream of a Nigeria where government is truly for the people, by the people, and of the people will remain elusive.
