June 12 Reflection: Nigerian Democracy at Risk of Collapse

As Nigeria marks June 12, the annulled 1993 presidential election, the article notes that for the majority of Nigerians—whose median age is 18—the event is ancient history, while older generations view it as a democratic rite of passage won by millions of ordinary citizens who challenged military rule. The lived reality today, however, is a democracy hollowed out since the Fourth Republic began in 1999, with reckless political cabals eroding the separation of powers, allowing the executive to dominate the legislature and judiciary, and weakening institutional independence. This has fueled public distrust, insecurity, electoral manipulation, and a slide toward violent extremism and communal conflict, especially amid Sahel instability. A press release by ten concerned citizens this week warned that Nigeria stands at a dangerous crossroads where rising insecurity, electoral manipulation, and weakened institutions threaten national survival. To reverse the trend, the article urges urgent recommitment to democratic accountability, judicial independence, and institutional reforms; transparent elections insulated from executive interference; revitalised regional security cooperation with Sahel states; investment in youth employment, education, and social protection; and active civic engagement from the private sector, professional bodies, traditional leaders, and clergy to protect civic space and resist tyranny. With institutions compromised and checks and balances imperilled, the piece calls Nigerians to reopen the struggle for democracy rather than merely celebrate past heroes.

SOURCE: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/opinion/887105-the-state-of-the-nation-by-jibrin-ibrahim-et-al.html