Nigeria’s Democracy Under Threat Amid Governance Crisis, Says CISLAC
Maryam Aminu
As Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has raised serious concerns over what it describes as a “frightening collapse” of accountable governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement issued to commemorate Democracy Day, CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, said the country’s democratic institutions are in sharp decline, warning that Nigeria is slipping into authoritarianism.
“Democracy in Nigeria is backsliding. Instead of building on the gains of the past, the country is regressing into a governance model defined by unaccountable leadership, weakened institutions, killings, and the exclusion of citizens from critical decision-making,” Rafsanjani stated.
The organisation highlighted a growing erosion of public trust, persistent corruption, impunity, and the weakening of democratic institutions.
Rafsanjani noted that electoral processes have become increasingly compromised, with vote buying, judicial interference, and voter suppression now the norm.
“Political parties have abandoned ideology and discipline, functioning solely as platforms for elite deals and personal enrichment,” he said.
CISLAC expressed deep concern about declining electoral credibility, citing widespread voter apathy and distrust in the political system.
The organisation called for urgent electoral and political party reforms to restore citizens’ confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
While anti-corruption efforts are often publicized at the federal level, CISLAC drew attention to rampant corruption at the state level, where many governors allegedly operate with minimal transparency or oversight.
“We must decentralize the anti-corruption fight. State assemblies are often compromised, enabling unchecked executive power at the sub-national level,” Rafsanjani said.
The judiciary, according to CISLAC, is grappling with delays in justice delivery, conflicting judgments, and increasing political interference. The group said these challenges undermine the rule of law and weaken public faith in democratic governance.
CISLAC also criticised the federal government’s handling of security and economic issues. Despite repeated promises, insecurity persists, with no clear national strategy in sight.
Economically, the organisation noted that the removal of fuel subsidies though touted as a major reform has only worsened poverty and hardship.
“The so-called savings from subsidy removal have not translated into relief for citizens. Inflation is soaring, essential goods are unaffordable, and millions are struggling,” the statement added.
The organisation condemned what it described as a shrinking civic space, citing arrests, intimidation, and harassment of activists, journalists, and civil society groups.
It pointed to recent incidents involving young protesters and organizations like Amnesty International as examples of state overreach.
“This growing intolerance toward civic voices and dissent is incompatible with any democratic society,” Rafsanjani warned.
CISLAC urged the Nigerian government to undertake “concrete, far-reaching reforms” to restore democratic principles, rebuild institutions, and ensure citizens’ participation in governance.
“Democracy is not just about holding elections it must reflect good governance, institutional strength, protection of rights, and open civic engagement,” Rafsanjani said.
