Nigeria’s democratic path ‘rarely straight’ — Presidency

Nigeria’s democratic journey is far from straightforward and requires continuous reassessment, inclusiveness, and economic justice to thrive, according to Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.

Speaking at the 23rd Annual Daily Trust Dialogue held at the Nigerian Air Force Conference Centre in Abuja on Thursday, Dare described democracy as “rarely a straight path,” often confronted by interruptions, imperfect implementation, and competing demands for limited resources.

“Governance is not only setting an agenda; it entails a dynamic reassessment,” he said. “Any democratic government must reflect not only the political climate of its time but also the economic conditions that define the scope of resources it has at its disposal.”

Dare argued that Nigeria’s democratic progress has been slowed not by citizens rejecting the system, but by leadership and institutions failing to urgently manage diversity, deliver justice, foster tolerance, and strengthen legitimacy through fairness. Despite these shortcomings, he insisted democracy remains Nigeria’s lodestar and its most sustained attempt at building enduring institutions.

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Tracing the roots of Nigeria’s political challenges, Dare pointed to the First Republic, which he described as intensely regional and ethnically charged, with politics driven more by identity than ideology. He noted that rivalries among nationalist leaders after independence, coupled with the lingering effects of the civil war, including uneven reintegration and unresolved grievances, created fault lines that continue to shape Nigeria’s political development.

“Over time, exclusion no longer expressed itself through secession, but through disengagement, mistrust, and alienation from the federal center,” he observed.

Despite these enduring challenges, Dare expressed optimism that Nigeria’s democratic project can still evolve to meet citizens’ aspirations. “Through dialogue, debate, and inclusion, democracy can continue to grow and deliver on its promise,” he said.

The Trust Dialogue, themed “Nigeria’s Fourth Republic: What Is Working and What Is Not”, brought together political leaders and experts to reflect on the country’s democratic gains and shortcomings since 1999.

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