Democracy Day: June 12 & lessons for Nigeria’s 2027 election, by Engr. Bello Gwarzo Abdullahi, FNSE
June 12 occupies a pivotal position in the annals of Nigerian history, epitomizing the resilience of its populace in the wake of the contentious annulment of the 1993 Presidential election. This day serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Nigerians, underscoring their unwavering commitment to democracy and justice.
Thus, it is lamentable, to say the least, that the current President’s apparent shift towards a one-party state—contrary to his previous advocacy for democratic ideals, as a champion for the actualization of June 22—elicits profound apprehensions regarding the state of governance in Nigeria. This predicament is exacerbated by the judiciary and legislature’s alignment with the President, engendering an atmosphere where dissent is stifled, fostering a pervasive sense of despondency among the citizenry.
The escalating trend of politicians defecting to the ruling party has intensified concerns regarding the nation’s political landscape. This phenomenon mirrors similar trends observed during Dr. Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, which ultimately culminated in a consolidated opposition against the ruling party; yet, since this does not serve as a lesson, it clearly illustrates our failure to learn from history.
Undoubtedly, the challenges confronting Nigeria’s democracy are intricate and multifaceted, with demographic pressures, economic volatility, and political divisions all significantly contributing to its precariousness.
The forthcoming 2027 general elections loom ominously, overshadowed by fears of electoral violence, voter suppression, and ethnic strife, underscoring the urgent need for robust institutions and transparent electoral mechanisms.
Confronting these formidable challenges necessitates a unified endeavor from all stakeholders. Addressing corruption, fostering transparency, and implementing inclusive policies are imperative steps towards nurturing national cohesion and stability. Citizens must actively engage in constructive dialogues, championing justice and democratic values to steer Nigeria towards a more promising future. This juncture represents a critical opportunity for collective action to safeguard democracy and aspire towards a more equitable and progressive society.
The trajectory towards a stable democracy in Nigeria is contingent upon the decisions made today and an unwavering commitment to upholding democratic principles. Politicians must galvanize themselves rather than succumb to despair as they navigate this treacherous path towards an uncertain future orchestrated by a ruling party bereft of both conscience and historical awareness. It is essential to acknowledge that while scrutinizing the ruling party’s actions, we must remain cognizant of the chaotic nature of the situation.
Democracy Day should serve as a poignant reminder of Nigeria’s journey towards democratic governance and the paramount importance of safeguarding democratic values. By gleaning insights from past experiences and enacting necessary reforms, Nigeria can aspire towards a more inclusive and transparent electoral process in the impending 2027 election.
bgabdullahi@gmail.com
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