Why Liberal Democracy May Never Work in Nigeria
By Teslim Oyetunji Theoretically, democracy is the most popular form of government in the world today. On paper, it promises to yield the most dividends for countries that adopt it. While it has worked excellently in some countries, delivering prosperity, innovation, and material progress, the story has not been the same for many others who embraced it wholesale. One such country is Nigeria. But the proper question to ask is: is it really democracy that has failed—or is it Nigerians themselves? Democracy is identifiable by two distinct features: free and fair elections conducted on the basis of inclusive adult suffrage and a multi-party system. These are supposed to provide the framework for participatory governance and periodic change in leadership through the ballot. However, democracy ensures that the majority wins and retains power; by its nature, it can lead to the tyranny of the majority and, in extreme cases, the abuse of power. It can perpetuate bad governance and...