A political scientist and Director, Institute for Legislative Studies, University of Abuja, Prof. Sheriff Ghali Ibrahim, has warned that Nigeria’s gradual slip into autocracy under the present administration threatens the foundation and gains of democratic governance as established by the founding fathers. He added that the excessive use of armed security personnel against the people negates the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
The professor of Political Science and International Relations told newsmen during a media interaction that true democracy guarantees freedom of expression and association.
“The celebration of democracy is something that humanity should do especially where democracy is fully practised. In 62 years of independence, Nigerians have been subjected to military interregnum, dictatorship and democratic autocracy.“The annulment of the June 12 election contradicted the choice of the people and also contradicted the effort and political struggles of the nation. The change of date for democracy day celebration was made to give legitimacy to the June 12 election.“Despite this however, democracy has failed in Nigeria,” he said, because citizens’ lives and properties are no longer safe.
He also stated that education had failed since it its standard had not improved regarding relevant skills, resulting in unemployment at the highest point today.
