Ezeokenwa digests Navigating Nigerian Politics - by Nduka Anyanwu

Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa digests Navigating Nigerian Politics –
“Democratisation and Development” – Written by Nduka Anyanwu

Background

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, has been grappling with the challenges of democratization and development. Despite being endowed with vast natural resources, the country has struggled to provide basic amenities for its citizens. The politics of democratization in Nigeria is complex, with the “politics of godfatherism” often overshadowing the democratic process.

Challenges Facing Democratization in Nigeria

One of the major challenges facing democratization in Nigeria is the lack of free and fair elections. Elections are often marred by violence, rigging, and other forms of electoral malpractice. This has led to a lack of trust in the democratic process, with many Nigerians questioning the legitimacy of the government.
Another challenge facing democratization in Nigeria is the issue of corruption. Corruption is endemic in Nigeria, with many politicians and government officials embezzling public funds and engaging in other forms of corrupt practices. This has led to a lack of development in the country, with many Nigerians living in poverty.

The Role of Leadership in Democratization

In his views, Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, the APGA National Chairman, emphasis that leadership plays a crucial role in the democratization process. A good leader can inspire confidence in the democratic process, while a bad leader can undermine it. In Nigeria, the leadership has been criticized for its failure to address the challenges facing the country. This
may have been as a result of how the leaders emerged.

The Way Forward

To navigate the challenges facing democratization in Nigeria, there is a need for a new approach. This approach should prioritize the NEEDS OF THE PEOPLE, RATHER THAN THE INTERESTS OF THE RULING ELITE. It should also address the issue of corruption, by introducing measures to prevent corrupt practices and hold those who engage in them accountable.

Key Recommendations

In his view, the APGA National Chairman suggests among other things the following as a substantive recommendation:

1. Free and Fair Elections: Ensure that elections are free and fair, by introducing measures to prevent electoral malpractice.

2. Anti-Corruption Measures: Introduce measures to prevent corrupt practices, such as asset declaration and independent anti-corruption agencies.

3. People-Centered Leadership: Prioritize the needs of the people, rather than the interests of the ruling elite.

4. Institutional Reform: Reform institutions to make them more accountable and transparent.

By implementing these measures, Nigeria can navigate the challenges facing democratization and achieve sustainable development. The country has the potential to become a beacon of hope for Africa, but it requires a new approach to leadership and governance. – We shall bring more updates in this context in our next article.