DEMOCRACY DAY: Ex- President Jonathan Sends Unexpected Message To Tinubu Asks Him To Do This
On Tuesday, former President Goodluck Jonathan urged President Bola Tinubu’ s administration to cultivate a democracy that reduces post-election tensions. He described the large number of legal disputes that arise after elections in Nigeria as a source of embarrassment.
Jonathan emphasized the importance of creating a democracy that is inclusive and fair, warning that a system grounded in ethnic and religious divisions is unlikely to last. He called for reforms that would foster unity and stability, ensuring that democratic processes are respected and upheld by all. According to a report by VANGUARD NEWS, while speaking as the
Chairman of the Democracy Day Public Lecture with the theme: 25 Years of Enduring Democracy: Prospect for the Future’ at the Old Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja, the former President noted that in the last 25 years, Nigeria has built an economy that was once the biggest economy in Africa, Former President Jonathan addressed the complexities and challenges that Nigeria has faced in its journey toward democratic consolidation,
He acknowledged that the path has been fraught with difficulties and that the country’s democratic evolution has been anything but smooth. However, Jonathan emphasized that for democracy to truly benefit the people, significant changes need to be made, particularly in the behavior and attitudes of political actors. One of the key points Jonathan raised was the necessity for political leaders to abandon their flamboyant and often
extravagant lifestyles. He argued that such ostentatious displays are not only inappropriate but also counterproductive in a democracy that aims to serve its people. Instead of indulging in personal grandeur, political figures should focus on governance that is modest and geared towards the public good.
By doing so, they can foster a more humble and service- oriented political culture that prioritizes the needs of the citizenry over personal aggrandizement. Jonathan also underscored the importance of strengthening state institutions as a cornerstone of a
robust democracy. He noted that without strong and independent institutions, democracy cannot function effectively. These institutions are the bedrock. upon which democratic governance rests, providing checks and balances that prevent the concentration of power and ensure accountability.
By reinforcing these institutions, the country can protect democratic principles and promote fair governance. In his critique of the prevailing political landscape, Jonathan condemned the winner- takes-all” approach that often characterizes Nigerian politics. This approach, where the victorious party or individual assumes total control and marginalizes opponents, is detrimental to the health of a democratic system. It fosters division, fuels political tensions, and undermines the inclusive nature of
democracy. Jonathan called for a more collaborative and inclusive political culture where power and resources are shared equitably, and all voices are heard and respected.
Also, the former president advised the National Assembly to consider adopting a governance model that better suits Nigeria’s unique context.
He suggested that the current system.
may not be fully aligned with the
country’s needs and that a tailored
model could help deliver the much-
needed dividends of democracy to the
people. This could involve reforms
that enhance representation, promote
effective governance, and ensure that
government actions are responsive to
the needs of all Nigerians. Jonathan s
remarks highlight a vision for Nigerian
democracy that is more inclusive,
accountable, and focused on the
common good.
His call to action is for political
leaders to embrace a culture of
modesty and service, to strengthen
the institutions that uphold
democratic values, and to move away
from divisive and exclusionary
politics. By doing so, Nigeria can build
a democracy that not only endures but
also thrives. This makes for delivering
of tangible benefits to its people and
fostering a more just and equitable
society. Nigeria’s Democracy Day is a
significant national holiday that
commemorates the restoration of
democracy in the country. Celebrated
annually on June 12, it marks the
historic presidential election of 1993,
which is widely regarded as the freest
and fairest in Nigeria’s history.
This election, although annulled by the
then- military regime, symbolizes the
collective aspirations of Nigerians for
democratic governance, justice, and
the rule of law. The significance of
June 12 stems from the 1993
presidential election, in which
Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO)
Abiola, a wealthy businessman and
philanthropist, emerged as the
presumed winner. The election,
overseen by the National Electoral
Commission (NEC), was lauded for its
transparency and peaceful conduct,
reflecting the genuine will of the
Nigerian people.
However, the military government, led
by General Ibrahim Babangida,
annulled the results, plunging the
country into political turmoil and
widespread protests. The annulment
of the 1993 election was a pivotal
moment in Nigeria’ s political history.
It galvanized pro-democracy
movements and civil society.
organizations, leading to sustained
agitation for the end of military rule.
The subsequent years were marked by
intense political repression, with many
activists, including Abiola, facing
imprisonment and persecution. Abiola’
s arrest and subsequent death in
custody in 1998 further fueled the
resolve of Nigerians to fight for
democracy.