Nigeria’s political landscape has seen its share of ups and downs, but one thing remains clear: democracy is the only way forward. Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, has firmly stated that there is no alternative to civil rule, rejecting recent calls for military intervention. This comes at a critical time, as some citizens have expressed frustrations with the current political climate. Let’s break down the key points of his powerful message:
- No Going Back: Abdulsalami emphasizes that democracy is here to stay, despite past military takeovers.
- Power to the People: He reiterates that the people hold the ultimate power, a cornerstone of democratic governance.
- Nurture Democracy: He urges citizens to protect and strengthen democratic institutions.
- Political Parties: The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) highlights the crucial role of political parties in the electoral process.
- Call for Dialogue: Former Senate President, Anyim Pius Anyim, calls for national dialogue to address long-standing political issues.
Abdulsalami’s Strong Stance
At the launch of the book titled: ‘100 Years of Political Parties Evolution in Nigeria,’ Abdulsalami made it clear that democracy is the only viable system for Nigeria. He highlighted that sovereignty rests with the people and that there is no replacement for a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. His words carry significant weight, given his role in ushering in the current democratic era in 1999.
“Despite military interventions, democracy has come to stay in Nigeria. There is no substitute for a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, which democracy represents, as sovereignty resides with the people,” he stated. This declaration comes at a time when some Nigerians, frustrated with the current political climate, have considered military rule as an option.
Why Democracy Matters
Abdulsalami’s statement is a direct response to those who have suggested military intervention as a solution to Nigeria’s political challenges. He oversaw the country’s transition to democracy and believes in the importance of robust, well-functioning democratic institutions. He stated, “We should therefore keep watering and nurturing the tree of democracy, as there is no alternative to civil rule. Our democracy has been tested and shaken by reactionary forces and survived. It is a testament to citizens’ belief and resilience in representative governance.”
The former Head of State also praised the efforts of his government, which laid the foundation for democratic governance. He pointed out that patriotic leaders who are passionate and resolute in their work can foster strong democratic structures and institutions, allowing democracy to flourish and benefit citizens.
INEC’s Call for Reforms
Echoing Abdulsalami’s sentiment, the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, highlighted the central role of political parties in the electoral process. According to him, no Nigerian can participate in any election unless they are a member of a political party and are sponsored by that party. He called for urgent electoral reforms and emphasized the need for internal democracy within political parties.
Prof. Yakubu, represented by INEC National Commissioner, Sam Olumekun, noted that a lack of internal democracy often leads to disputes and disruptions. He stated, “Political parties must ensure that their processes reflect the will of their members.” The INEC chairman also stated that, “One of the key responsibilities of political parties is the conduct of credible primary elections. Internal party democracy is the foundation upon which credible general elections are built.”
The Need for Dialogue
Former Senate President, Anyim Pius Anyim, weighed in on the issue, stating that Nigeria’s political instability is rooted in unresolved historical issues. He referred to the past constitutional conferences under military rule, questioning whether those in power genuinely sought solutions. He believes that Nigeria’s progress is dependent on a national dialogue to address all of these outstanding issues.
Conclusion
The call for maintaining the democratic system by General Abdulsalami Abubakar is a message that every Nigerian should take seriously. The former Head of State, alongside INEC and other political figures, has stressed the need for internal democracy within political parties and the importance of dialogue in resolving long-standing political issues. It is very clear that democracy is the best option for a better and stronger Nigeria.