Time to Strengthen the Democratic Credentials of States and Local Government Institutions

 

By Sir Paul Chukwuma

I vividly remember May 29, 1999, when Nigeria returned to democratic rule after 16 years of military dictatorship. That day was met with a mixture of uncertainty and silence. History had taught Nigerians to be cautious, and many feared democracy would again be short-lived. But here we are, 26 years later, having sustained democratic governance through successive transitions. We are now firmly in our third decade of democratic experience.

I congratulate every Nigerian as we mark our 26th Democracy Day anniversary. I understand that many citizens feel disillusioned and betrayed by the outcomes of democracy. Some question its credibility and impact. But having lived through both military and civilian eras, I can confidently say that democracy, despite its imperfections, has delivered more progress than dictatorship ever did.

Under democratic rule, Nigeria's economy has grown far beyond its pre-1999 levels. Infrastructure development has spread beyond the federal capital to every part of the country. Fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, the right to vote and be voted for, and freedom of association have also seen significant improvement.

However, it is not yet uhuru. Democracy is not a finished product that comes neatly packaged. It is a historical journey shaped through struggle, sacrifice, and civic engagement. Democracy thrives on the constant tension between the governed and those in power; it is in this struggle that institutions are tested, refined, and deepened.

The democracy we enjoy today was borne out of the sacrifice of countless Nigerians across ethnic and religious lines who stood firm in defence of the people’s mandate on June 12, 1993. Amongst them were our current president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the late Prof. Humprey Nwosu, Olisa Agbakogba SAN, and many others. That struggle culminated in the birth of the Fourth Republic on May 29, 1999. It is only fitting that June 12 is now recognised as our official Democracy Day, a lasting tribute to the spirit of resistance and resilience.

Nobel laureates Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson, in their book The Narrow Corridor: States, Societies, and the Fate of Liberty, argue that democracy emerges and survives through a power struggle between state and society, between governments and civic organisations. This has proven true in Nigeria. Our federal institutions today are relatively more transparent and accountable than their state and local government counterparts. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), federal budgets, and national arms of government come under more scrutiny, largely because of sustained civic engagement and media attention. This level of oversight is often absent at the state and local government levels.

As we mark this year’s Democracy Day, I believe it’s time to broaden our democratic lens. Citizens and Civil Liberty Organisations must begin to shine more light on the democratic institutions of states and local governments. Strengthening transparency, accountability, and institutional independence at these levels is not only necessary. It is essential.

The quality of governance closest to the people has the greatest impact on their daily lives.

Happy Democracy Day.

Sir Paul Chukwuma is the YPP Gubernatorial Candidate for Anambra State