Published 2023-09-22
Keywords
- Nigeria, democracy, legitimacy, political instability, electoral politics
How to Cite
Copyright (c) 2023 Top Multidisciplinary Research Journal
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
Abstract
This abstract delves into the complex interplay between democracy and legitimacy in Nigeria since gaining independence in 1960. Despite its rocky history, characterized by political instability, military rule, and various socio-political challenges, Nigeria has continually grappled with the question of democratic legitimacy. This study examines the enduring struggle for legitimacy in Nigerian politics, especially since the restoration of electoral democracy in 1999.
Nigeria's journey towards democratic governance has been marked by a persistent quest for legitimacy. The introduction of electoral democracy in 1960 promised a legitimate framework for political power. However, the nation's political landscape has been marred by instability rooted in regional and ethnic tensions. The scars of the Biafra war and the strains of a centralized oil economy have tested the unity and integrity of the Nigerian state. Consequently, this turbulent backdrop has given rise to frequent regime crises and military interventions. Astonishingly, Nigeria spent 32 out of the 55 years following independence under military rule.
Despite these challenges, the discourse surrounding the legitimacy of democratic rule has never faded from the political horizon. In 1999, Nigeria re-embraced electoral politics, signaling a return to democracy. Nevertheless, the democratic institutions that underpin this system have remained underdeveloped and fragile. In some cases, they have even deteriorated, as evidenced by the alarming levels of fraud and violence that have marred the five general elections held since 1999.
This study seeks to unravel the multifaceted dynamics of democracy and legitimacy in Nigeria. It aims to understand how a nation with such a tumultuous political history has managed to maintain the aspiration for democratic legitimacy despite the persistent challenges it faces. By examining the historical context, socio-political factors, and the impact of electoral processes, this research offers valuable insights into Nigeria's ongoing struggle for legitimacy in its democratic journey.
In conclusion, Nigeria's post-independence history is a testament to the enduring resilience of the democratic ideal in the face of adversity. Despite decades of political instability, the Nigerian people continue to aspire to a legitimate and democratic form of governance. This study serves as an exploration of this tenacious quest for legitimacy within the complex Nigerian political landscape, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
References
- Abimbola, J.O and Adesote, S.A (2012) Party Internal Democracy and the Challenge of Democratic Consolidation in Nigeria, 1999-2011: A Historical Analysis, Journal of Social Science and Policy Review, Vol 4, June 2012.
- Agbaje, A and Adejumobi, S (2006) “Do Votes Count? The Travails of Electoral Politics in Nigeria” in Africa Development, Vol XXXI, No 3, CODESRIA.
- Agbo A (2009) A Catalogue of Failures, Tell Magazine, June 8
- Aina, A.D. (2002) ‟Party Politics in Nigeria under Obasanjo Administration,‟ Monograph Series No. 1, Department of Political Science and Sociology, Babcock University, Nigeria.
- Anifowose, R. (2004), “Political Parties and Party-system in the Fourth republic of Nigeria:
- Issues, Problems and Prospects”, In Olurode, L. and Anifowose, R. (eds.), Issues in Nigeria‟s 1999 General Elections, Lagos: John West Publications Ltd.
- Anifowose, Remi (1982) Violence and Politics in Nigeria: The Tiv and Yoruba Experience, New York: MOK Publishers International, 1982;
- Animashaun, Kunle (2010) Regime Character, Electoral Crisis and Prospects of Electoral Reform in Nigeria, Journal of Nigeria Studies, Volume 1, Number 1, Fall 2010.
- Domingo, P and Nwankwo, C (2010) Review of International Assistance to Political Party and Party System Development, Case Study Report: Nigeria, An Overseas Development Institute Publication, December 2010
- Egwemi, V. (2009a)From Three to Fifty: Some Comments on the Paradox of Increasing
- Number and Diminishing Relevance of Political Parties Under Obasanjo‟s Administration, 1999 – 2007, International Journal of Social Science ,1 (2), 33 – 40. Janda, Kenneth (2005) “Adopting Party Law‟, in Political Parties and Democracy in Theoretical and Practical Perspectives, Washington D.C.: National Democratic Institute for International Affairs.
- Nassmacher, K 2001 (ed.) Foundations for Democracy: Approaches to Comparative Political Finance. Baden-Baden: Nomos.
- Obiorah, N (2004) “Preface” in Obiorah, N (ed) Political Finance and Democracy in Nigeria: Prospects and Strategies for Reform, Centre for Law and Social Action (CLASA).
- Omodia, S.M.(2010) „Elite Recruitment and Political Stability in the Nigerian Fourth Republic‟, Journal of Social Sciences, 24(2):129-133..
- Omotola, J. S (2009) Electoral Administration and Democratic Consolidation in Africa: Ghana and Nigeria in Comparative Perspective, PhD Post-Field Seminar Department of Political Science, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
- Omotola, S.J (2009) Nigerian Parties and Political Ideology, Journal of Alternative Perspectives in the Social Sciences (2009) Vol 1, No 3, 612-634. Randall and Svasand, (1999), “Party Institutionalization and the New Democracies”, Paper for the ECPR Joint Session of Workshops, Mannheim, 23-31, March.
- Sklar, Richard L, Ebere Onwudiwe, and Darren Kew, (2006), “Nigeria: Completing Obasanjo‟s Legacy” Journal of Democracy Volume 17, Number 3 July 2006. USAID (2006) Democracy and Governance Assessment of Nigeria, Available at:http://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/PNADI079.pdf.
- Wakili, H (2008) Financing Political Parties in Nigeria: 1999-2007, The Consortium for Development Partnerships.