Abuja: A don, Dr. Lawrence Odeh, has highlighted Nigeria’s uninterrupted 26-year civilian rule as the nation’s most significant democratic achievement. Dr. Odeh, who is part of the Department of Political Science and Public Administration at Benson Idahosa University in Benin, expressed these views during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Odeh raised concerns about the failure of successive administrations to deliver the anticipated benefits of democracy, particularly in welfare and security sectors. While acknowledging the remarkable sustainability of Nigeria’s democracy, Odeh pointed out the lack of military intervention over the years as a commendable feat. However, he emphasized that the nation has not fully achieved key democratic indices as outlined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended), specifically section 14, subsection 2b, which mandates Nigeria to be a welfare state ensuring the security of life and property.
Dr. Odeh remarked that the nation falls short when evaluated against these constitutional benchmarks, citing significant security challenges that have persisted over the years. He stressed the importance of proactive security measures that focus on protection rather than reactionary efforts following incidents like kidnappings and abuse. The welfare provisions of the constitution were also criticized for not being adequately implemented, with Dr. Odeh highlighting the lack of state welfare packages for the unemployed and the challenges faced by the aged in accessing health facilities. Furthermore, he mentioned the inefficiencies of maternity and primary health centers in grassroots communities.
In his assessment of Nigeria’s democratic institutions, Dr. Odeh noted that they are weakened and suffer from a lack of public trust. He identified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary, the legislature, and political parties as institutions that are merely surviving compared to their initial states at the beginning of the Fourth Republic. Dr. Odeh described these shortcomings as critical aspects lacking in democratic governance, which need addressing for Nigeria to fulfill its democratic potential.