BY TONY OKAFOR
The democracy we are celebrating today is a pale imitation of the one we truly desired, far removed from the vision of 1993 when Nigerians united behind Chief MKO Abiola’s philanthropic spirit and ideals.
It is also a disconnect between the democratic ideals Nigerians envisioned in 1999 when we bid farewell to military rule.
The harsh realities of our so-called democracy are evident in the plundering of our commonwealth by a privileged few under the iron grip of oligarchy.
Crippling unemployment, killing hunger, glaring inequality, and blatant disregard for constitutionality and the rule of law have become the hallmarks of our so-called democracy.
Corruption is entrenched, with those in power amassing wealth at the expense of the masses.
The electoral process, meant to be a cornerstone of democracy, has been undermined by malpractices and manipulation.
The 2023 general elections were marred by reports of corrupt practices, ballot snatching, and judicial abracadabra, leading to a crisis of confidence in the electoral process and the institutions responsible for conducting elections.
The consequences of these actions are evident in the struggles of Nigerians to survive, denied access to basic necessities like healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.
Insecurity is rampant, with citizens living in fear of their lives and property.
The press, once a watchdog of government excesses, is increasingly being muzzled, and human rights are being trampled upon.
To address these challenges, we need to prioritize electoral reform, strengthen our institutions, and promote transparency and accountability in governance.
This includes ensuring that journalists can do their work without fear of harassment or intimidation and promoting a culture of meritocracy and fairness in governance.
We must also invest in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities that benefit the masses, rather than just the ruling elite.
Our institutions need to be independent, impartial, and accountable to the people, with checks and balances that prevent the executive from overstepping its bounds.
Ultimately, we need a new social contract, where the government is truly of the people, by the people, and for the people.
We must acknowledge the struggles of the past, honour the sacrifices of those who fought for true democracy, and recommit ourselves to building a nation where no one is oppressed.
Until we address the fundamental issues that have undermined our democracy, our Democracy Day celebrations will remain a hollow exercise in self-congratulation, a farce that masks the rot at the heart of our system.
At best, what we are celebrating is LOOTOCRACY – and it is crystal clear who is reaping the benefits..
