National Interest Network Queries Nigeria’s Democratic Status
TEC News!
In a statement commemorating Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the National President of the National Interest Network (NIN), Honorable (Apostle) Da-Silva Johnson, questioned the type of democracy practiced in Nigeria.
Da-Silva outlined the key principles of democracy, including free and fair elections, protection of individual rights, rule of law, separation of powers, accountability, transparency, and participation. He then evaluated Nigeria’s performance in each of these areas, highlighting the country’s shortcomings.
Da-Silva criticized Nigeria’s electoral process, citing the annulment of the 1993 presidential election won by MKO Abiola, his death and that of his wife’s assassination, Kudirat Abiola with no accountability for the cruelty melted against the couple. He also expressed concerns about the manipulation of election results and the disregard for citizens’ votes.
The NIN president further lamented the absence of protection for individual life and rights, the selective application of the rule of law, and the lack of transparency and accountability in government. He noted that the separation of powers is often compromised, with the executive, legislative, and judicial branches frequently colluding to undermine the interests of citizens.
The honourable who is also a clergy further questioned the type of democracy Nigeria practices, considering the country’s failure to adhere to the principles of direct democracy, representative democracy, constitutional democracy, and participatory democracy.
He concluded by urging citizens to take responsibility for the nation’s development, emphasizing the importance of education, legitimate governance, and responsible behavior. Johnson wished Nigerians a happy Democracy Day and encouraged them to reflect on the state of democracy in the country.
The National Interest Network’s statement serves as a call to action, prompting Nigerians to demand a more authentic and inclusive democratic system.
National Interest Network, NIN is a non partisan and Civil Society Organization (CSO) with interest in a better nation where good governance with transparency, accountability and morals are championed.
Full text of Press Release below:
PRESS STATEMENT
The National President, National Interest Network (NIN)
Honorable Da-Silva Johnson
Commemorating Nigerian Democracy Day
Fellow NIN Members, Comrades and Nigerians,
As we mark Nigerian Democracy Day today, I am reminded of the fundamental principles of democracy, which seem to be eroding in our great nation. As the National President of the National Interest Network (NIN), I feel compelled to reflect on the state of democracy in Nigeria and demand answers from our government.
Democracy, by definition, is a system of government where power is vested in the people, either directly or through elected representatives. However, the reality in Nigeria is far from this ideal.
We have witnessed the annulment of free and fair elections, as seen in the 1993 presidential election won by MKO Abiola. The subsequent assassination of his wife, Kudirat, and the lack of accountability for these heinous crimes, raise serious questions about our democratic credentials.
The protection of individual rights, a cornerstone of democracy, is also lacking in Nigeria. Citizens’ rights to education, freedom of speech, water, power, and life are frequently violated. The rule of law is selectively applied, and the separation of powers is often compromised.
Transparency and accountability are essential components of democracy, but in Nigeria, these principles are often observed in the breach. Government decisions and actions are frequently shrouded in secrecy, and citizens are denied opportunities to participate in the decision-making process.
As we celebrate Democracy Day, I urge Nigerians to reflect on the type of democracy we are practicing. Is it direct democracy, representative democracy, constitutional democracy, or participatory democracy? The answer, unfortunately, is none of the above.
Instead, we have a system that is characterized by electoral fraud, impunity, and a lack of accountability. We have a system that prioritizes the interests of the powerful and wealthy over those of the ordinary citizen.
As we move forward, I call on Nigerians to demand a better democracy, one that is truly representative of the people’s interests. We must wake up to our responsibilities and demand accountability from our leaders.
Let us work together to build a Nigeria where democracy is not just a word, but a reality that is lived and breathed by all citizens.
Happy Democracy Day to Nigerians and to members and partners of National Interest Network.
Signed:
Hon Da-Silva Johnson
National President, NIN
Adverts
