Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, and Aminu Tambuwal, the former governor of Sokoto State, raised concerns about the state of democracy in Nigeria during a 60th birthday celebration for former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, held at the Ladi Kwali Hall of the Abuja Intercontinental Hotel. They all emphasized the urgent need for reforms to address Nigeria’s ongoing challenges.
Also present at the event were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku, and former Katsina State governor Aminu Masari. Obasanjo noted that the current democratic system in Nigeria, and much of Africa, has failed to meet the needs of the people. He argued that the Western model of democracy doesn’t align with African values, stressing that “democracy in Africa has failed because it is not African.”
He called for a redefinition of democracy that better reflects Africa’s cultural realities and serves the people more effectively. Obasanjo said, “Is democracy failing in Africa? Are we talking of democracy or Western liberal democracy?” He pointed out that while democracy traditionally served the needs of the people in Africa, the Greek-inspired representative democracy now practiced fails to address everyone’s needs. He also noted that citizens are often forced to seek justice in a system where they know they may not find it. According to him, for democracy to survive in Africa, it needs to be adapted to the continent’s realities.
Peter Obi echoed similar concerns, emphasizing that Nigeria’s democracy is not functioning as it should. He reflected on his personal experience of fighting for his mandate after being impeached as governor of Anambra State, noting that he did not resort to bribery during the process. Obi observed, “Democracy is not working in Nigeria. Everything has been knocked down. Nothing works.” He recalled how, during his impeachment, then-President Obasanjo expressed concern for his safety, a contrast to the situation today, where leaders now directly impeach individuals.
In his keynote speech titled “Is Democracy Failing in Africa?”, Bishop Kukah highlighted the weaponization of religion as a significant barrier to Nigeria’s democratic progress. He also referenced the relationship between Obasanjo and Atiku, describing it as a Catholic marriage—frequently quarreling but never breaking up. Kukah called for a more honest and inclusive approach to Nigeria’s challenges, stressing that the country’s democratic system must be based on justice, fairness, and inclusivity.
Aminu Tambuwal, former governor of Sokoto, agreed that democracy in Nigeria is a work in progress but emphasized that its success depends on political leaders adhering to the rules. He recalled how the National Assembly worked together during a state of emergency under Obasanjo’s administration and said that democracy could succeed if all political actors played by the rules.
Atiku Abubakar, speaking at the event, praised Ihedioha for his loyalty, dedication, and focus, despite their political differences over the years. Chief Emeka Anyaoku, former Commonwealth Secretary-General, reflected on his work to promote democracy globally, particularly in helping nations transition to multi-party systems. He also called for a new constitution to address Nigeria’s challenges, emphasizing the importance of true federalism and stable democratic governance.
In closing, Emeka Ihedioha expressed gratitude to all attendees, quoting his father’s advice that “the most expensive habit is having friends.” He reaffirmed his lifelong commitment to democracy, urging everyone to defend and protect it. Ihedioha concluded, “There’s life after money. I will remain who I am. For me and democracy, it is till God do us apart.”
