The Practice of Inauthentic Democracy in Nigeria: My Worry

Abstract

Democracy popularly regarded as the government of the people, by the people and for the people remains one of the best systems of government. The advent of democracy in Nigeria, after many years of military rule opened up the opportunity for the majority to be represented in government. To many, it opened the door of progress, growth and development they have waited for over the years. Hence, the beginning of democratic rule in 1999 brought a lot of hopes to Nigerians. However, while it remains true that Nigeria is governed by democratically elected leaders, Nigeria is yet to practice an authentic democratic system and a model that fits its nation. Consequently, Nigeria is faced with social maladies such as bad governance, corruption, poverty, economic imbalance, power tussle, and many other leadership problems. This work sets out to expose the practice of inauthentic democracy in Nigeria and the remedy to this situation. It recommends among others that Nigeria should integrate in its governance democratic principles and that Nigeria should evolve a democracy that works for her.