June 12 is marked annually in Nigeria as Democracy Day, a day meant to commemorate the country’s return to democratic governance after years of military rule. Officially recognized to honor the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, which is widely considered Nigeria’s freest and fairest election, the day holds symbolic significance. However, despite its importance as a historic milestone, Nigeria should seriously reconsider the celebration of Democracy Day in its current form. The reason is simple: Nigeria’s democracy, though formally established, remains fundamentally flawed, deeply compromised, and has yet to deliver the core benefits of democracy to the average Nigerian citizen. In essence, celebrating Democracy Day risks masking the glaring deficiencies of Nigeria’s political system and giving a false impression that democratic ideals have been fully realized.
Since the return to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria has experienced a series of elections, changes of government, and political campaigns that suggest a functioning democracy. Yet, beneath the surface, the Nigerian democratic system is riddled with issues such as electoral malpractice, political corruption, ethno-religious tensions, and a governance culture that prioritizes personal enrichment over public service.
Elections in Nigeria are often marred by violence, ballot stuffing, vote buying, intimidation, and widespread manipulation. These undemocratic practices have severely undermined the legitimacy of electoral outcomes and eroded public trust in the democratic process. If democracy is to be truly celebrated, it must be a system where citizens freely and fairly choose their leaders without fear or coercion. Unfortunately, the Nigerian experience is far from this ideal.
At the heart of democracy lies the principle of governance for the people — ensuring security, justice, development, and welfare for all citizens. Yet, decades after returning to civilian rule, Nigeria still struggles with fundamental governance challenges. Poverty, unemployment, insecurity, poor infrastructure, and systemic corruption persist as everyday realities for millions.
The failure of successive democratic governments to significantly improve living conditions for ordinary Nigerians raises serious questions about whether democracy, as currently practiced, is working. The ruling class often appears disconnected from the needs of the people, using democracy as a shield to perpetuate their hold on power while ignoring their social contract.
By celebrating Democracy Day annually, there is a risk that Nigerians are being placated with symbolic gestures rather than substantive change. The day is often marked by speeches, parades, and ceremonies that project an image of democratic success. However, these celebrations can divert attention from the pressing need for genuine political reform, accountability, and the deepening of democratic norms.
Instead of simply celebrating Democracy Day, Nigeria should use the occasion to critically assess the state of its democracy. Is the country genuinely free? Are elections credible? Is governance inclusive and just? Are the institutions of democracy independent and strong enough to check abuses of power? Celebrations without critical reflection risk turning Democracy Day into a hollow ritual rather than a meaningful commitment to democratic values.
True democracy is not only about the mechanics of voting but also about social justice, equality, and respect for human rights. Unfortunately, Nigeria’s democracy has often failed to protect the rights of marginalized groups and minorities. Ethno-religious conflicts, discriminatory practices, and the exclusion of women and youth from meaningful political participation continue to plague the system.
Celebrating Democracy Day without addressing these systemic injustices sends the wrong message — that democracy exists in name, but not in substance. Democracy should uplift the marginalized and ensure that everyone’s voice counts, not just the politically powerful elites.
Rather than celebration, what Nigeria needs is a collective awakening to the shortcomings of its democracy and a concerted effort toward reform. This includes strengthening electoral institutions to guarantee free and fair elections, promoting transparency and accountability, reforming the judiciary, and encouraging civic education that empowers citizens to demand better governance.
The government should focus less on grandiose celebrations and more on creating the conditions that make democracy meaningful: reducing corruption, improving public services, ensuring security, protecting freedoms, and fostering inclusive development.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s Democracy Day, while symbolically important, is premature and arguably misplaced given the state of the country’s democratic system. The day’s celebration risks glossing over the deep flaws and challenges Nigeria faces in realizing true democracy. Rather than marking the day with festivities, Nigerians should use it as a moment of sober reflection, renewed commitment, and active demand for democratic reforms that will translate into real benefits for all.
Until Nigeria’s democracy moves beyond mere formality to become genuinely free, fair, and inclusive — delivering justice, equity, and prosperity to its people — the celebration of Democracy Day remains more a celebration of an ideal than a reality. For Nigeria to truly honor democracy, it must first fix its democratic deficits and ensure that every citizen’s voice matters, every vote counts, and governance serves the common good.
By: Godwin Offor
