By Yinka Olatunbosun, Ph.D
On June 12, 2025, Nigeria marked 26 years of unbroken democratic rule—a milestone that signifies progress, resilience, and an ongoing quest for national transformation. Since the handover of power from military to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria has experienced significant political shifts, economic reforms, and social challenges. This article reflects on the nation’s democratic journey—its triumphs, trials, and the road ahead.
The Return to Civilian Rule: 1999 and the Hope for Change
Nigeria’s Fourth Republic was born on May 29, 1999, when General Abdulsalami Abubakar handed over power to President Olusegun Obasanjo, ending over 15 years of military dictatorship. For millions of Nigerians, democracy offered the promise of freedom, development, and good governance. The transition symbolized not just a political shift, but a societal yearning for dignity and progress.
Democratic Gains and Milestones
Over the last 26 years, Nigeria has recorded several democratic achievements:
1. Peaceful Transitions of Power: For the first time in Nigerian history, democratic transitions between rival political parties occurred, notably in 2015, when President Goodluck Jonathan conceded defeat to Muhammadu Buhari. This signaled political maturity and respect for the rule of law.
2. Expanding Civic Space: Civil society organizations, media outlets, and youth movements such as #EndSARS have grown bolder in holding leaders accountable and shaping public discourse.
3. Electoral Reforms and Innovations: The introduction of the BVAS (Bimodal Voter Accreditation System) and digital transmission of results by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) marked steps toward credible elections, even as implementation challenges remain.
4. Judicial Interventions: The judiciary has played crucial roles in election dispute resolutions, contributing to the strengthening of the electoral process despite concerns over impartiality.
Enduring Challenges and Setbacks
Despite these gains, Nigeria’s democratic experience has been marred by persistent challenges:
1. Electoral Violence and Irregularities: Every election cycle is often plagued by violence, voter suppression, ballot snatching, and allegations of rigging, undermining public confidence in the process.
2. Corruption and Governance Deficit: Successive administrations have struggled with deep-rooted corruption, poor service delivery, and lack of accountability. Public institutions remain weak, while poverty and inequality persist.
3. Insecurity: From Boko Haram insurgency in the Northeast to banditry, kidnappings, and separatist agitations, insecurity continues to threaten the fabric of the nation and challenge democratic stability.
4. Economic Hardships: Reforms—especially under recent administrations—have often led to inflation, high unemployment, fuel subsidy removal, and a depreciating naira, resulting in widespread hardship for the average Nigerian.
5. Youth Disillusionment: With high youth unemployment, limited opportunities, and perceived political exclusion, a growing number of Nigerian youths have become disenchanted with the democratic process.
June 12: A Symbol of Sacrifice and Struggle
The adoption of June 12 as Democracy Day in 2018 was a recognition of the heroic efforts of the late Chief MKO Abiola and others who paid dearly for the enthronement of democracy. It is both a commemoration of a stolen mandate and a reminder of the price of liberty. The significance of June 12 lies in its embodiment of the people’s will—a benchmark for evaluating the progress of Nigeria’s democracy.
The Road Ahead: Deepening Democracy
As Nigeria reflects on 26 years of democratic governance, it must recommit to the values of justice, equity, and inclusive development. Key areas for urgent attention include:
– Strengthening Institutions: Independent, well-funded, and accountable institutions are the backbone of any true democracy.
– Electoral Transparency: Reforms must ensure that votes count and electoral offenders are punished.
– Youth Inclusion: Nigeria’s large youth population must be integrated into political decision-making and governance structures.
– Constitutional Reforms: Genuine federalism, decentralization, and restructuring debates must be addressed with sincerity.
– Security and Welfare: A democracy that fails to protect lives and livelihoods will ultimately breed discontent and instability.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s democracy is a work in progress—neither perfect nor hopeless. The past 26 years have shown moments of promise, pain, and perseverance. As the country moves forward, citizens and leaders alike must take ownership of the democratic process, shunning apathy, and embracing active participation. Only then can the dreams of June 12 and the sacrifices of the past be fully realized.
Dr. Yinka Olatunbosun was the Labour Party Candidate in Ife East Local Government for the Osun State House of Assembly during the last general election in 2023.