Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concerns over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, describing it as having deteriorated into a classic example of state capture.
In a statement on his X account, Obi highlighted multiple leadership failures that have led to widespread corruption, insecurity, suppression of free speech, rising poverty, and unprecedented hardship.
Obi, who previously governed Anambra State, emphasized that genuine democracy should prioritize the populace, protect citizens’ rights, ensure adherence to laws, and hold leaders accountable for the welfare of the people. He questioned whether Nigeria, after 25 years of striving for democracy, has truly achieved a democratic state.
“As our nation marks Democracy Day today, celebrating 25 years of efforts to become a democratic country, the fundamental question for us all remains: Are we truly democratic?” Obi remarked.
He urged a re-evaluation of Nigeria’s democratic journey, stressing that democracy should be “of the people, by the people, and for the people.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s progress since 1999, Obi lamented the country’s descent into state capture, where governance serves a select few at the expense of the many. This, he argued, has resulted in systemic corruption, high insecurity, restricted freedom of speech, and worsening poverty and hunger.
Obi pointed to various international indices as evidence of Nigeria’s democratic shortcomings. The country scores a low 4.23 on the Global Democracy Index and ranks 145th on the Corruption Perception Index, highlighting severe corruption. Additionally, Nigeria is placed 120th out of 142 countries in the World Justice Project Rule of Law Index, reflecting widespread disregard for the rule of law.
Further illustrating his concerns, Obi cited the 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), which identifies Nigeria as one of West Africa’s most perilous and challenging environments for journalists. Nigeria ranks 112th out of 180 countries for press freedom, with journalists frequently monitored, attacked, and arbitrarily detained. The country is also ranked 109th out of 125 on the Global Hunger Index.
Obi called on Nigerians to use the commemoration of June 12, Democracy Day, to recommit to the principles of true democracy. He urged respect and protection of democratic institutions, adherence to the rule of law, accountability to the people, and fulfillment of governance responsibilities as outlined in the constitution.
“We must defend Nigeria’s democracy today,” Obi asserted, calling for a united effort to restore and uphold democratic values in the country.
