The Unfulfilled Democratic Expectations Of Nigerian Protesters

The Unfulfilled Democratic Expectations of Nigerian Protesters

By Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu

In a democratic society, the government is expected to be responsive to the needs and demands of its citizens. This responsiveness is often a litmus test for the democratic nature of leadership. In Nigeria, recent events have raised concerns about whether the current administration, led by Mr. President, truly embodies the principles of democracy, particularly in how it has responded—or failed to respond—to the demands of protesters.

One of the fundamental tenets of democracy is the idea that the government derives its power from the consent of the governed. This implies that leaders are accountable to the people and must be willing to listen and respond to their concerns. However, the current administration’s track record in dealing with protests suggests a troubling disconnect between the government and the citizenry. Numerous protests, ranging from those addressing police brutality to economic hardship and electoral reforms, have been met with indifference or, worse, repression.

The #EndSARS protests of 2020 are a prime example. This movement, which called for an end to police brutality and demanded sweeping reforms in the Nigerian Police Force, was met with a heavy-handed response from the government. Despite widespread support for the protesters’ demands, the administration initially responded with silence, followed by forceful crackdowns that culminated in the tragic events at the Lekki Toll Gate. This response was not only undemocratic but also a clear indication of a leadership that is out of touch with the realities and expectations of its people.

A democratic leader is expected to engage in dialogue with citizens, especially in times of crisis. This involves acknowledging the grievances of the people and taking concrete steps to address them. However, in the case of the Nigerian protests, the government’s approach has often been to dismiss the protesters’ demands or to delay action until the pressure becomes unbearable. This pattern of behavior reflects a leadership style that is more authoritarian than democratic, where power is maintained through suppression rather than through the consent and active participation of the people.

Furthermore, the administration’s failure to address the root causes of the protests—such as corruption, economic inequality, and human rights abuses—raises further questions about its commitment to democratic principles. A true democratic leader would prioritize these issues, recognizing that they are at the heart of the people’s discontent. Instead, the government’s inaction suggests a disregard for the well-being of the citizens and a focus on maintaining the status quo, regardless of the cost to the nation’s democratic health.

In conclusion, the current administration’s handling of protests in Nigeria reveals a significant gap between the expectations of a democratic leadership and the reality of governance under Mr. President. By consistently failing to respond to the demands of protesters, the administration has demonstrated a lack of commitment to the core values of democracy. This not only undermines the trust of the people in their government but also poses a serious threat to the democratic fabric of the nation. A true democratic leader listens, engages, and acts in the interest of the people—qualities that have been notably absent in the current leadership.

Hon. Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu writes in from kano

Can be reached @ =08060017934.

email balasalihudawakinkudu@gmail.com