Nigeria’s democratic future threatened by poverty, weak institutions — Don
Dr Kabir Yandaki, a political scientist said Nigeria democracy has recorded notable gains but raised concern over raising poverty, weakening institutions and erosion of the principle of separation of power affecting the democracy.
Yandaki, who is the Deputy Dean of Students’ Affairs at the Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina, raised the concern in an interview with the reporters in Katsina.
He noted that despite several challenges, Nigeria has succeeded in sustaining democratic governance for over two decades, allowing citizens to exercise their constitutional right to elect leaders at different levels of government.
According to him, democratic scholars such as Larry Diamond consider a democracy consolidated when power is successfully transferred through multiple democratic cycles, a feat Nigeria has achieved since 1999.
However, he expressed concern that the executive arm of government at all levels is increasingly overshadowing the legislature and judiciary, thereby weakening the system of checks and balances that serves as the foundation of democratic governance.
According to him, strengthening democratic institutions, restoring and ensuring strict adherence to the principle of separation of powers are critical to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.
On the economic front, the analyst said Nigeria experienced relative stability during the early years of democratic rule, particularly between 1999 and 2010.
He noted that many of the economic difficulties inherited from military administrations appeared to be easing during that period.
According to Yandaki, economic challenges began to intensify during the administration of Goodluck Jonathan and worsened under Muhammadu Buhari, largely due to insecurity, declining living standards and policies that negatively affected economic activities.
He added that the removal of fuel subsidies by President Tinubu’s administration further deepened economic hardship, leaving many Nigerians struggling to meet their basic needs.
The analyst warned that democracy cannot thrive in a society overwhelmed by poverty, arguing that widespread economic hardship could ultimately undermine public confidence in democratic governance.
Yandaki also expressed concern over growing ethno-religious divisions and declining trust in public institutions, saying social cohesion is gradually weakening across the country.
He further called on the government to review economic policies that have increased hardship, including fuel subsidy removal, high interest rates, import and export levies, and multiple taxation.
Yandaki also advocated stronger security measures to enable rural communities to engage safely in agricultural activities, improve food security and reduce poverty.
He stressed that national reorientation programmes aimed at promoting unity and mutual trust among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups are equally essential.
“Democratic consolidation requires strong institutions, economic inclusion and social cohesion. Without addressing poverty, insecurity and institutional weakness, Nigeria’s democratic gains could be at risk,” he said.
Similarly, Ibrahim Kabir, a political analyst, said Nigeria has recorded significant democratic progress, but corruption, insecurity and electoral malpractice continue to hinder its development.
Kabir described June 12, as a historic occasion that honours the sacrifices of those who fought for democratic governance and constitutional rule in Nigeria.
The political scientist further commended the increasing participation of youths and women in politics and civic activities, although he stressed the need for greater inclusion.
Despite these achievements, Kabir said Nigeria’s democracy continues to face serious challenges, including vote-buying, voter intimidation, alleged electoral irregularities, among other factors.
He explained that corruption weakens public confidence in government institutions, while insecurity has negatively affected governance and electoral processes in some parts of the country.
Also in an interview with NAN, the Chairperson of the Nigerian Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Katsina chapter, Fatima Sanda, called for greater inclusion of women in politics and governance, saying, “democracy must translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Nigerians.
“Many Nigerians still expect democracy to improve their daily lives through better education, healthcare, security, employment opportunities and social welfare programmes.”
Sanda expressed concern over the low representation of women in politics and decision-making despite their active contributions to community and national development.
She said many women interested in politics continue to face challenges such as inadequate financial resources, cultural barriers, political intimidation and limited access to party structures where key decisions are taken.
The women journalists’ leader observed that women in Katsina State have continued to demonstrate leadership and commitment as voters, professionals, entrepreneurs and community mobilisers, yet remain underrepresented in elective positions.
She stressed that increasing women’s participation in governance was not only a gender issue but a critical requirement for sustainable development and democratic growth.