June 12: Is Democracy Threatened in Nigeria?

 

INTRODUCTION 

As Nigeria commemorates Democracy Day on June 12, a date entrenched in the nation’s history as a symbol of the struggle for democratic governance, critical questions arise about the state of Nigeria’s democracy today. The annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election—widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history—marked a dark period in the nation’s political evolution. Decades later, while Nigeria has maintained a civilian government since 1999, concerns persist over whether democracy is truly thriving or under threat.  

THE LEGACY OF JUNE 12 AND NIGERIA’S DEMOCRATIC JOURNEY.

June 12 represents more than just a date; it embodies the resilience of Nigerians in demanding accountable leadership. The 1993 election, won by Chief MKO Abiola, was a watershed moment that demonstrated the possibility of a united Nigeria transcending ethnic and religious divides. However, its annulment by the military regime under General Ibrahim Babangida exposed the fragility of democratic transitions in the country.  

Since the return to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria has held six consecutive general elections, yet each cycle has been marred by allegations of rigging, voter intimidation, and judicial interventions in electoral outcomes. The 2023 elections, in particular, were heavily contested, with opposition parties and civil society groups raising concerns about irregularities and the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).  

SIGNS OF DEMOCRATIC EROSION 

Several indicators suggest that Nigeria’s democracy may be facing significant threats:  

1. Electoral Integrity Under Scrutiny:

Despite technological advancements like the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Results Viewing Portal (IReV), the 2023 elections were criticized for logistical failures and discrepancies in result transmission. The European Union Election Observation Mission noted "a lack of transparency and operational deficiencies," raising doubts about the credibility of the process.  

2. Rising Political Violence and Suppression:

Election-related violence remains a recurring issue. According to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), over 600 incidents of political violence were recorded in the lead-up to the 2023 polls. Additionally, there are growing concerns about press freedom, with journalists and activists facing intimidation for criticizing the government.  

3. Judicialization of Politics:

The increasing reliance on courts to determine electoral outcomes—rather than the ballot box—has led to what some analysts describe as "judicial coups." In 2023, several governorship elections were overturned by tribunals, creating scepticism about the judiciary’s impartiality.  

4. Economic Hardship and Citizen Disillusionment:

A struggling economy, rising poverty, and unemployment have eroded public trust in democratic governance. The World Bank reports that over 104 million Nigerians live in poverty, while inflation has soared to nearly 34% (as of May 2024). When citizens perceive democracy as failing to improve their lives, support for authoritarian alternatives may grow.  

THE ROLES OF INSTITUTIONS IN SAFEGUARDING DEMOCRACY.

Strong institutions are the backbone of any democracy. However, in Nigeria, key democratic institutions face challenges:  

1) INEC’s Credibility Crisis:

Despite reforms, INEC’s inability to conduct flawless elections undermines confidence in the electoral process. Delayed result uploads, underage voting in some regions, and allegations of bias have fueled distrust.  

2) The National Assembly and Executive Overreach:

The legislature, meant to serve as a check on executive power, often appears weakened by partisan politics. Frequent defections, rubber-stamp approvals of executive decisions, and a lack of vigorous oversight raise concerns about accountability.  

3) The Media and Civil Society Under Pressure:

A free press and active civil society are essential for democracy. However, recent attacks on journalists (such as the detention of FIJ’s Daniel Ojukwu) and restrictive laws like the Social Media Bill suggest shrinking civic space.  

COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVE: HOW DOES NIGERIA FARE IN AFRICA?

While Nigeria struggles with democratic backsliding, it is not alone in Africa. Countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have experienced military takeovers, citing governance failures. However, nations like Ghana and South Africa have maintained stronger democratic traditions through independent institutions and robust civil engagement.  

Nigeria’s democracy, though imperfect, remains one of Africa’s most influential. If it falters, the ripple effects could destabilize the West African region.  

IS THERE STILL HOPE FOR NIGERIAN DEMOCRACY?

Despite these challenges, Nigeria’s democracy is not beyond redemption. Civil society organizations, the media, and youth-led movements continue to advocate for transparency and accountability.

 The NotTooYoungToRun movement, for instance, has empowered younger candidates to contest electionssignallingng a shift toward inclusive governance.  

Moreover, the judiciary, though sometimes controversial, remains a critical check on executive power. The Supreme Court’s recent rulings against attempts to undermine state autonomy (as seen in local government financial control cases) demonstrate that democratic institutions can still function effectively.  

THE WAY FORWARD: KEY RECOMMENDATIONS.

To strengthen democracy, Nigeria MUST fix:

1. Electoral Reforms – INEC must regain public trust by ensuring transparent, technology-driven elections with full adherence to the Electoral Act.  

2. Judicial Independence – The judiciary must resist political interference and uphold fairness in election disputes.  

3. Protection of Press Freedom – The government should drop repressive media bills and ensure journalists can operate without fear.  

4. Economic Reforms – Reducing poverty and unemployment will restore faith in democracy as a viable system.  

5. Civic Education – Citizens must be educated on their rights and the importance of participation beyond elections.  

CONCLUSION

As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day, the question remains: Is democracy under threat? The answer lies in the willingness of political leaders, institutions, and citizens to safeguard the principles of June 12—free and fair elections, respect for the rule of law, and government accountability. Without urgent reforms to strengthen electoral integrity, reduce political violence, and restore public confidence, Nigeria risks sliding further into democratic backsliding.  

The spirit of June 12 must not be reduced to mere symbolism; it should serve as a constant reminder that democracy is not a destination but a continuous struggle.  

REFERENCES:

1. European Union Election Observation Mission, Nigeria 2023 General Elections Final Report.

  

2. Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), Nigeria Political Violence Trends (2022-2023)

3. World Bank, Nigeria Development Update (2024)

4. International Press Institute (IPI), Press Freedom Reports on Nigeria (2023-2024).

5. Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), Post-2023 Election Review.

Local Government Autonomy: Why Are LGAs So Weak in Nigeria?

 INTRODUCTION 

Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Nigeria were designed to be the third tier of government, closest to the people, and responsible for grassroots development. However, decades after the 1976 Local Government Reforms, many LGAs remain weak, inefficient, and financially dependent on state governments. This article examines the reasons behind the weakness of LGAs in Nigeria and the implications for governance and development. 

Local government areas (LGAs) are meant to bring governance closer to the people, facilitate grassroots development, and serve as a critical bridge between citizens and higher levels of government. However, despite their potential and constitutional status, LGAs in Nigeria remain institutionally weak, financially dependent, and politically manipulated.

The Nigerian local government system has long been criticized for its inefficiency and lack of autonomy.

Local governments in Nigeria have struggled to deliver basic services and promote grassroots development. The question remains: Why are local governments so weak in Nigeria?

This article explores the core reasons behind the persistent weakness of LGAs and the ongoing struggle for true autonomy.

HISTORICAL AND CONSTITUTIONAL FOUNDATIONS

The 1976 Local Government Reform initiated under the military regime marked a pivotal moment for LGAs in Nigeria. It aimed to grant them a measure of autonomy, with elected officials and direct access to federal allocations. However, the 1999 Constitution, while recognizing LGAs under Section 7, placed them under the control of state governments—particularly through the creation and operation of State Joint Local Government Accounts (SJLGA) under Section 162(6). This arrangement has allowed state governors to exercise significant influence over LGA finances and decision-making.

REASONS FOR LGA'S WEAKNESS.

1. Constitutional Ambiguity and State Government Control 

One of the primary reasons for the weakness of LGAs is the constitutional framework that leaves them vulnerable to state government interference. While the 1999 Constitution (as amended) recognizes LGAs as a tier of government, Section 7 grants state governments the power to legislate on their structure, finance, and administration.  

State governments often exploit this provision by:  

- Withholding LGA allocations from the Federation Account.  

- Appointing caretaker committees instead of allowing democratically elected officials.  

- Controlling LGA funds through State Joint Local Government Accounts (SJLGA), which are often mismanaged.  

According to BudgIT (2022), over 60% of LGAs in Nigeria do not receive their full allocations due to state government interference.  

2. Lack of Financial Autonomy 

The Financial Autonomy Bill, which sought to grant LGAs direct access to their funds, has faced stiff resistance from state governors. Instead, LGAs rely on monthly allocations from the Federation Account, which are often delayed or diverted.  

A 2021 report by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) revealed that many states deduct arbitrary percentages from LGA funds for "administrative costs," leaving LGAs with little to execute projects.  

3. Poor Governance and Corruption  

Even when funds are available, mismanagement and corruption at the LGA level undermine development. Many LGAs lack:  

- Transparent budgeting processes  

- Accountability mechanisms

- Citizen participation in governance  

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has prosecuted several LGA officials for embezzlement, yet systemic corruption persists.  

4. Over-Politicization of LGA Elections

Unlike federal and state elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), LGA elections are controlled by State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), which are often manipulated by state governors.  

A 2020 report by Yiaga Africa found that over 80% of LGA elections in Nigeria are non-competitive, with ruling parties winning all seats in most states. This undermines democracy and weakens LGAs’ ability to function independently.  

5. Weak Capacity and Bureaucratic Inefficiency

Many LGAs lack the technical expertise to implement projects effectively. Poor staffing, inadequate training, and outdated administrative structures hinder service delivery.  

The World Bank (2019) noted that only 30% of Nigerian LGAs have functional development plans, leading to haphazard project execution.  

Several studies and reports have highlighted the need for local government autonomy in Nigeria. According to a report by the Nigerian Governors' Forum, granting full autonomy to local governments could increase their internally generated revenue by 300%. Another study by the World Bank noted that decentralization and local government autonomy are critical to promoting economic development and reducing poverty.

To strengthen local governments in Nigeria, several steps can be taken.

Firstly, the Constitution should be amended to clarify the roles and responsibilities of state and local governments. 

Secondly, local governments should be granted full financial autonomy, allowing them to generate and manage their own revenue. 

Finally, capacity-building programs should be implemented to enhance the skills and knowledge of local government officials.

CONCLUSION: THE WAY FORWARD

For LGAs to fulfill their constitutional mandate, the following reforms are necessary:  

1. Constitutional Amendment: Remove ambiguities in the 1999 Constitution to grant full autonomy to LGAs.  

2. Direct Funding: LGAs should receive allocations directly from the Federation Account, bypassing state governments.  

3. Electoral Reforms: INEC should conduct LGA elections to ensure fairness.  

4. Anti-Corruption Measures: Strengthen oversight mechanisms to curb financial mismanagement.  

5. Capacity Building: Invest in training and modernizing LGA administrations.  

Until these reforms are implemented, LGAs will remain weak, and grassroots development will continue to suffer.  

REFERENCES:

- Nigerian Governors' Forum. (2018). Local Government Autonomy in Nigeria: A Review of the Constitution and Practice.

- World Bank. (2019). Decentralization and Local Governance in Nigeria: A Review of the Literature.

- Okoli, F. C. (2017). Local Government Administration in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects. Journal of Local Government Studies, 6(1), 1-15.

- Agagu, A. A. (2020). Local Government Autonomy and Development in Nigeria: A Critical Analysis. Journal of Public Administration and Governance, 10(2), 1-12.

- BudgIT (2022). Local Government Transparency Report.

- EFCC (2023). Cases of Corruption in Local Governments.  

- World Bank (2019). Assessing Local Government Performance in Nigeria. 

- Yiaga Africa (2020). Report on LGA Elections in Nigeria.  

Okonta Emeka Okelum is an online journalist, social analyst, governance activist, sustainable development enthusiast, and grassroot community development champion, with special focus on governance, democracy, rule of law, politics, human rights, and development in Nigeria. 

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Of Anioma State Creation: The Future, Place, Relevance Of Asaba

Many thanks in advance, to you all, as you had in time past followed our various social media contents, publications and articles, drafted for the sole interest and benefit of Asaba and Ahaba's progressive and sustainability agenda.

There is no better time to be deeply concerned about the above subject matter than now, especially, now that, we are few weeks away from the forthcoming "Anioma State Creation's Public Hearing." Now is the best time to brilliantly consider some core political, administrative, technical processes, vital institutions, and organs of a pure democratic statehood.

Ideally, in every well implemented, governed democratic state, there are judiciary, legislative, and executive organs of any state administration. The essence of this article is to deeply examine these institutions and organs of state administration and fashion out a well structured and pro Ahaba position paper that will be presented at the public hearing, now is the best time to begin the commencement of this all important political and democratic exercise towards the emergence of a new state.

The seat and site of the new state capital; distribution of local government areas; historical and cultural uniformity of communities/clans that should constitute each local government area, are some vital democratic issues to be considered right now.

List of towns that should constitute  each senitorial district, the House of Representatives, how the state of Assembly’s seats will be distributed aer very vital considerations to be carefully considered, such that Ahaba doesn't get or give our future children any reason to question our proactive responses towards this important civic engagement.

Nwa_Ahaba recall that our Ahaba proactive democratic and political leaders had since post independent Nigeria advocated, championed, and mobilised regional and grassroot supports for democratically created new regions and states, this historical and democratic background is a natural boast and endowment, we must never allow to either consciously or unconsciously slip away from us.

Looking back, since pre-colonia, colonia, and independent Nigeria, taking into account many ugly trends and ill-fated circumstances, Asaba endured, Nwa_Ahaba, it is only democratically right that, individually and collectively, cash in and upon these above mentioned past realities, as means and point of agitations towards demanding for Asaba’s right of place, relevance and befitting position in all scheme of things concerning the emergence of the soon to be born "Anioma State."

Before, now, Ahaba Sustainability Agenda, Asaba Post Media Solutions, and other like-minded organisations carried out an opinion poll on some issues around Anioma State Creation, based on the opinion poll's findings, we are moved to launch this second social media campaigns and publication on Anioma State Creation. 

Nwa_Ahaba, Ahaba Sustainability Agenda, and our partners call upon you to individually and collectively think out and brainstorm these issues listed below, with a view at how best they will positively impact Asaba and Ahaba interest.

These issues include but are not limited to: 

1) Where will the seat of government and the new state capital be sited? 

2) What yardsticks will be used to determine how many independent and harmonious local government areas should be created in the new state?

3) To constructively and deliberately identify communities, clans and towns with similar historical and cultural uniformity, such that forming and clustering them into same local government area, granting them municipal house of Assembly status,  House of Representatives and Senatorial District, will not for any reason pose future challenges in the new state.

4) In the new state, we advocate, that all geographical spaces, landscapes, outposts, and satellite towns, presently identified by H.R.M Asagba Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN) OON, FNIALS, FICMIC, LLD, KSJI, KSG, the 14th Asagba of Asaba, as part and parcels of Asaba Metropolitan City, with the royal father's spokesmen, vasal chieftains and royal representatives, shall officially constitute the length and breath of the the new local government area, as well as the new state's house of Assembly seat, as we advocate for an additional house of Assembly municipal seat, we strongly maintain that, that this new municipal seat will be carved out of these same geographical spaces, landscapes, outposts, and satellite towns, so identified by the royal father.

All of us at Asaba Post Media Solutions, Ahaba Sustainability Agenda and our proactive partners within Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria and in diaspora, fully committ, support, and energetically dedicate our time, talent, expertise and resources towards the pursuit and realisation of all these above mentioned Pro-Ahaba democratic agenda.

By Virtue of this social media campaign and publication, we strongly  express our unalloyed commitment to the above position paper.

By Okonta Emeka Okelum, writing from Asaba, for Ahaba Sustainability Agenda.

Yours Truly 

Comrade Okonta Emeka Okelum 

Founder

* Asaba Post Media Solution 

* Ahaba Sustainability Agenda