In celebration of Nigeria’s Democracy at 26, the Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA) has urged the Federal Government to prioritise the welfare of citizens for national development.
In a statement on Tuesday, the President of NPSA, Prof Hassan A. Saliu, lamented that politics has become a lucrative venture as many politicians were focused on personal gains rather than public service.
He said: “As Nigeria marks 26 years of its Fourth Republic, which commenced in May 1999, it is evident that the country’s democratic journey has been fraught with challenges. Despite efforts made by successive governments to improve the lives of Nigerians through various policy initiatives, the reality on the ground suggests that the benefits of democracy have not been evenly distributed.
“A critical examination of Nigeria’s democracy reveals several issues that have hindered its effectiveness. The ruling elite has prioritised personal interests over the needs of the general population, evident in the kinds of policies being pursued.
“Politics has become a lucrative venture, with many politicians focused on personal gain rather than public service. Policymakers often prioritise short-term solutions over long-term strategies. Politics in Nigeria has been characterised by divisive rhetoric and actions that undermine national unity, as evident in the emotional attachment to rotational principles and sectional gatherings preceding the 2027 elections.
“Electoral processes have been marred by questions about their credibility and transparency. Many political parties lack internal democracy and fail to promote democratic values. Politicians often switch parties for personal gain rather than ideological reasons.
“The political landscape has been dominated by one party, potentially stifling opposition and limiting choices. Budgets often include questionable entries benefiting politicians at the expense of the general population. The middle class has been squeezed, with many individuals struggling to make ends meet, exemplified by the neglect of university professors.
“A significant percentage of the population lives in poverty, and unemployment is rampant, as forecasted by the Bretton Woods Institutions. Politicians often exploit primordial sentiments to further divide the population. The political process is often characterised by rancour and tension. The country’s independence is sometimes compromised in pursuit of external interests.
“Given these challenges, the Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA) is concerned about the state of democracy in the country. The NPSA notes that democracy has largely served the interests of the ruling elite, while the majority of citizens have not benefited significantly.