20 Years of Democracy: A Retrospective | Nigeria’s Democracy at 20

In February 2019, Nigeria held its sixth national election since the country returned to democratic civilian rule. While the elections were ultimately deemed largely free, fair, and credible by international and domestic observation groups, they were marred by intimidation, irregularities, and public indifference. The recently concluded election reflects both the strengths of and deficiencies in Nigeria’s democracy. Political space is pluralistic and competitive. The public has real expectations for government officials, and failure to meet these expectations can result in removal from office. Government structures and systems, including the electoral management bodies, security forces, and the courts are guided and constrained by democratic rules. And yet, politics is exclusionary. Government officials and agencies often fail to operate transparently and to respond to the needs and demands of the people. Officials and agencies fail to abide by the rule of law.

As Nigeria enters its third decade as a democracy, how can it both consolidate and deepen its democracy? What roles can civil society, the government, the public, and the international community play in accelerating this process?

Follow NED:

[juliemafwil]

This is a good presentation and educative for both Nigerians and those who are interested in knowing about Nigeria's democracy and its challenges