THE recent events in Delta State and the wave of defections from the PDP to the APC have indeed signposted major concerns about the state of democracy in Nigeria. The book “How Democracies Die” by Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt provides valuable insights into the gradual erosion of democratic institutions and the rise of authoritarianism.
Some key democratic pillars that seem to be under threat in Nigeria are lack of viable opposition. The opposition’s ability to hold the government accountable and provide alternative policies is crucial for a healthy democracy. This has been largely absent in the current democratic space and has grossly eroded the viability of democracy in Nigeria.
Secondly is the censorship and closure of the civic space. The freedom to assemble, protest, and express opinions without fear of reprisal is essential for citizen participation and government accountability. Terrifying developments in recent times where peaceful and armless protesters have been tagged arsonists and charged for felonious offenses have sounded nunc dimittis for the nation’s budding democracy
Thirdly, it is the independent judiciary. An impartial judiciary plays a critical role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the government acts within its constitutional limits. Recent laughable judgments emanating from the law courts across the country have exposed Nigerian judiciary to the mockery of the global community.
Lastly, free press. A free and independent media is vital for holding those in power accountable and providing citizens with accurate information. Countries like Nigeria with blink human rights records are bound to stunt democratic ethos and reduce citizens’ participation.
Therefore, the erosion of these pillars can have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s democracy, including undermining accountability. Weakened democratic institutions can embolden those in power to act with impunity. Besides, such underpinning will greatly restrict citizen participation in politics. Such choking limitations on civic space and freedom of expression can silence dissenting voices and limit citizen engagement.
The erosion of trust in the democratic institutions constitutes a clog in democratic evolution. When democratic institutions are compromised, citizens may lose trust in the system, leading to disillusionment and potential instability.
To strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, it is essential to address these challenges and promote institutional reforms. Strengthening democratic institutions, such as the judiciary and electoral commission, can help ensure accountability and transparency.
Added to that is civic engagement. Encouraging citizen participation and protecting civic space can help ensure that the government remains accountable to the people. Free and independent media is needed more than ever before. Supporting a free press can help hold those in power accountable and provide citizens with accurate information.
By addressing these challenges and promoting democratic values, Nigeria can work towards consolidating its democracy and ensuring that the government remains accountable to its citizens in order to preserve democracy in Nigeria.
