12 years of democracy: The good, the bad and the way forward

The Nation

31 May 2011

12 years of democracy: The good, the bad and the way forward

By Tony Akowe, Onyedi Ojiabor, Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf and Augustine

Today, Nigeria begins another phase of its democratic journey with the swearing in of President Goodluck Jonathan and some governors across the country, Tony Akowe, Onyedi Ojiabor, Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf and Augustine Ehikioya speak with a cross section of citizens to assess the country’s progress.

Nigeria doesn’t have democratic experience yet. What exists is democratic aspiration. In my assessment of this current democratic aspiration, I will say well, we are making some progress to the extent that we are exposing the undemocratic forces and they are moving away gradually out of the system. As for areas of improvement, first of all, there is need to change socio-economic system controlled development in the country based on selfish interest to a system based on public interest first and then self-interest comes next.

In my view, there is no need to advise the incoming government because they will not listen. My advice is therefore directed to the masses on the need to continue being hopeful."