Political scientists at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) have voiced deep concerns over what they describe as the gradual decline of democratic principles in Nigeria. As the country prepares to mark Democracy Day, the academics warned against efforts to weaken opposition parties and undermine citizens' political power.
June 12: A Symbol of Democratic Commitment
The scholars argued that although June 12 remains a powerful symbol of Nigerians' dedication to democratic governance, many of the ideals that characterized the historic 1993 presidential election have yet to be fully achieved. In separate interviews with The Guardian in Calabar, they emphasized that June 12 serves as a defining moment in Nigeria's democratic journey and a reminder of the need to protect the will of the people.
Academic Perspectives on Democratic Erosion
Dr. Gabriel Abunbe, Acting Head of the Department of Political Science at UNICAL, described the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election as a watershed in the nation's political history. He noted that Nigerians voted across ethnic, religious, and regional divides, demonstrating the true essence of democracy. According to him, the election allowed citizens to freely express their choice, making it one of the most credible elections ever conducted in the country.
Abunbe stated that although June 12 has been officially recognized as Democracy Day, the challenge remains whether successive governments have upheld the values associated with the late Chief MKO Abiola and the struggle for democratic rule. He maintained that democracy should not be reduced to periodic elections, stressing that political pluralism, freedom of expression, rule of law, and credible electoral processes are essential pillars of any democratic system.
“Many people equate democracy with elections, but democracy goes beyond voting. It is about the people having real power and institutions functioning independently,” he said.
Importance of a Strong Opposition
Associate Professor John Adams of the department stressed that a vibrant opposition is indispensable to democracy. He warned that efforts to weaken opposition parties could pave the way for authoritarian tendencies. According to Adams, citizens must have genuine political alternatives, adding that democracy thrives when opposition parties are strong enough to hold governments accountable and offer competing ideas.
The don expressed concern over what he described as attempts to emasculate opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that healthy political competition remains critical to democratic governance.
Comparison with 1993 and Current Challenges
Comparing the current political climate with that of 1993, Abunbe said the June 12 election reflected a level of national unity rarely seen in Nigeria's political history, as voters largely ignored ethnic and religious considerations. The scholars also lamented the growing influence of poverty and vote-buying in the electoral process, arguing that economic hardship has made many citizens vulnerable to political manipulation.
They urged Nigerians to become more politically conscious, reject inducements during elections, and actively participate in the democratic process, insisting that the future of the country's democracy ultimately rests in the hands of its citizens.
