SOBER REFLECTION by DR. Aminu Abubakar Gwandu

It is a universal fact that Democracy is believed to be the best form of government that guarantees participation of citizens in governance at all levels. In our Nigeria since 1999, has returned to democratic governance, which has so far lasted 25 years without any disruption by the military. This is the longest democratic experience in our Nigeria’s history.Unfortunately, elections in Nigeria have always been controversial since the first Republic. The collapse of the first and second Republics which was partly due to the failure of the civilian political class to conduct credible elections in 1964 and 1983. Before the 1964 elections, Nigeria was regarded as “example of the world of what a well-balanced modern African democracy could be”. It can be concluded that the political class was yet to learn any lesson from these series of failure.Without giving it a second thought, one can deduce that the democratic leadership in Nigeria has failed the nation. We can see that in all cases in Africa and beyond, it is the leadership that has spearheaded reforms through sacrifice.There is clear separation of powers in our constitution and the arms of Government, namely, the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary are independent of each other. There is nothing wrong with the constitution or the institutions it established; Institutions that include the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It was the same National Electoral Commission of Nigeria that conducted the June 12, 1993 Presidential Election which was adjudged to be credible. This showed that Nigerians are capable of holding a credible election once the leadership allows it. Many countries in the World, including the United States have successfully operated the presidential system through conducting or holding credible elections, but credibility in elections in Nigeria has remained a mirage, unpredictable and fraudulent, because the leadership has not shown any interest in making it credible and to be accepted by all and sundry.How I wish “Federalist Majority – All–Time Agenda” will be determined to right the wrongs of the past and, prompt patriotic Nigerians to rise to the occasion to effect the necessary and needed changes and rebirth a new Nation where justice, equity and equality will prevail. Our strength as a nation lies in our unity. Let us stand in solidarity with those who are oppressed, marginalized, indigent and silenced. The change we are yearning for does not happen overnight, it requires patience, perseverance, and unwavering determination and commitment. Democracy is more than the ordinary definition of government of the people for the people by the people. It has become identified with intellectual freedom; with economic justice; with social welfare; with tolerance; with piety; moral integrity; the dignity of a man, and general civilized decency. Respectfully submitted by,Dr. Aminu Abubakar Gwardu

Dr. Aminu Abubakar Gwandu, is passionate about nation building, He is the National Coordinator, Network for Change, Peace and Socio – Community Development ( NCPSD), Maiduguri Borno State.