June 12 Special: Nigerians Reflect On Democracy Since 1999, Demand Better Governance

By Anayo Onukwugha (Port Harcourt), Babaji Usman Babaji (Gombe), Felix Igbekoyi (Asaba), Aza Msue (Kaduna), Attah Anthony (Jalingo), Damilola Origbemisuyi (Akure), Richard Ndoma (Calabar), and Nnamdi Mbawike (Enugu)

Nigeria’s Democracy Day offers another moment of reflection on the country’s democratic journey since the return to civilian rule in 1999. Twenty-seven years after the transition, many Nigerians acknowledge that democratic governance has expanded political participation and preserved constitutional order, but argue that expectations around economic wellbeing, security, and accountable leadership remain only partially fulfilled.

Across the states, respondents painted a picture of a democracy that has sustained civilian rule since 1999 but continues to face criticism over governance, accountability, and the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians.

From Rivers to Gombe, Delta to Taraba, and Cross River to Enugu, contributors who spoke with LEADERSHIP Weekend shared varied perspectives on the country’s democratic experience, highlighting both progress and persistent challenges.

In Rivers State, some residents described Nigeria’s democracy as gradually losing direction.

Speaking in Port Harcourt, a retired civil servant, Mr Blessing Wikina, said democratic institutions had not lived up to expectations.

“Democracy is in flight mode now. It has gradually failed through the institutions in charge. For instance, the National Assembly does not fully play its role. The use of voice votes in plenary undermines accountability and transparency.

“In other countries, lawmakers are judged based on their voting records, but under this voice vote arrangement, lawmakers leave no clear track record of participation,” Wikina said

Also speaking, journalist Dr Dormene Mbea argued that there was little reason to celebrate without a sincere evaluation of democratic practice.

“As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day, there is little cause for celebration without a sincere assessment of the state of our democracy. More than two decades after the return to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria is yet to practise true and meaningful democracy.

“Democracy is founded on the principle that power belongs to the people. Sadly, what exists today often falls short of that ideal. Elections are frequently marred by allegations of vote-buying, voter intimidation, ballot-box snatching, manipulation of results, and abuse of state institutions.”

In Gombe State, residents acknowledged democratic gains but stressed that governance outcomes must improve.

Trader Sahabo Musa said Nigerians have enjoyed political freedom and the opportunity to elect leaders but noted that the process still suffers from manipulation by influential interests.

Similarly, local farmer Amadu Danliti said democratic institutions had strengthened over time but called for greater accountability and inclusion.

Economy, Welfare and Living Conditions

Residents across several states linked democratic performance to citizens’ daily realities.

In Delta State, Ayomide Bridget said elections continue to suffer from voter intimidation, vote buying, and electoral malpractice, calling for stronger institutional independence and improved electoral administration.

Ovie Gilbert described corruption as one of the biggest threats to democratic development, while Gilbert Olie identified insecurity as a major concern affecting citizens’ rights and public confidence.

In Taraba State, residents expressed disappointment with governance outcomes.

Mohammed Aminu said he had not experienced meaningful democratic benefits despite years of civilian administration.

“Our leaders continue campaigning on issues such as roads, water, and security, yet many of those promises remain unmet.”

Another resident, Abubakar Sadiq, warned that democratic space must remain open for citizens to express their views freely.

In Ondo State, businessman Kunle Ajibogun maintained that democracy remains the best form of government but stressed that citizens expect visible improvements in living conditions.

“Leaders must do more to ensure democracy benefits ordinary citizens,” he said.

Rule of Law and Democratic Progress

Legal practitioners also reflected on the country’s democratic development.

Kaduna-based lawyer Hiifan Andrew Abuul said democratic governance has strengthened citizens’ socio-economic and political rights.

According to him, press freedom and access to justice remain important democratic gains despite challenges such as insecurity, corruption, and rising living costs.

Makurdi-based legal practitioner and Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Gboko Branch, Felix Zahemen Uwar, said Nigeria has moved from authoritarian rule to electoral democracy but is still striving to deepen democratic culture.

“Elections hold, power changes hands, courts speak, the press is free, and civil society remains active. No coups in 27 years, that is significant.

“But elections remain monetised, institutions are weak, corruption persists, and security and welfare challenges continue to make democracy feel distant to many citizens.”

In Cross River State, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Engr Effiom Edet Okon, argued that Nigeria’s democratic institutions remain functional and that ongoing reforms are aimed at long-term stability.

However, he acknowledged that economic pressure and public dissatisfaction require wider consultation and more responsive governance.

Meanwhile, respondents in Enugu expressed mixed views.

Mrs Amarachi Nwaneri argued that some military administrations performed better economically than certain civilian governments and criticised policies that increased hardship.

Another respondent, Drothy Emeka, maintained that despite present difficulties, Nigerians still prefer democracy to military rule.

While opinions differed across states, many respondents agreed on one point: democracy’s survival remains important, but citizens increasingly want governance that delivers security, accountability, and tangible improvements in daily life.