Celebration and protests: Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democracy
3 min read
A Milestone in Nigeria’s Democratic Journey
Nigeria marked 26 years of uninterrupted civilian rule on Thursday, celebrating a significant milestone since the country’s return to democracy in 1999. The occasion—Democracy Day, held annually on June 12—honors the legacy of the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely considered the most credible in the nation’s history.
While the government hailed the anniversary as proof of democratic resilience, the public response was far from unified.
Streets of Protest: Nigerians Demand Accountability
In cities like Lagos and Abuja, hundreds of peaceful protesters took to the streets, expressing frustration over what they see as the failures of democracy to improve the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians. Chants, placards, and speeches echoed through the streets, calling for economic reforms and political transparency.
The demonstrations were led by civil movements like #EndBadGovernance, with activists pointing to the nation’s ongoing cost-of-living crisis as proof of unmet promises.
“All of the freedoms that a people in a democratic country ought to enjoy do not exist in Nigeria,” said Hassan Taiwo Soweto, a leading activist.
Cost-of-Living Crisis Fuels Anger
At the core of the public’s frustration is a crippling inflation crisis that has persisted for two years. Rising prices of basic goods, stagnant wages, and currency devaluation have left many families struggling.
Protesters accused the government of neglecting the economic plight of its citizens. In 2024, similar demonstrations against inflation and hardship resulted in a deadly crackdown by authorities, with Amnesty International reporting that at least 24 people were killed by security forces during the protests.
A Tense But Peaceful Demonstration
On Thursday, security personnel were deployed in large numbers to monitor the protests. Despite the heavy presence of law enforcement, the demonstrations remained largely peaceful, in stark contrast to previous instances of state violence.
This shift in police response offered a slight glimmer of hope to demonstrators, some of whom acknowledged that public resistance remains a cornerstone of any functioning democracy.
CHECK ALSO| Nigeria: Tinubu denies one-party plan after he’s accused of clamping down on opposition
Celebratory Mood Among Pro-Government Supporters
While many citizens marched in protest, others gathered in celebration. Supporters of the current administration insisted that June 12 should be a day of unity, not unrest.
“If you were around during June 12, you would know that it’s a day worth celebrating,” said Bestman Nze-Jumbo, convener of Team Nigeria for Change. “We’re not saying everything is perfect in the country, but today is about how far we’ve come.”
These celebrants believe that despite the country’s challenges, Nigeria’s endurance as a democratic state should not be overlooked.
A Call for Democratic Renewal
The events of Democracy Day highlight the polarized perception of governance in Nigeria. While the government emphasizes progress, many citizens demand a democracy that is inclusive, transparent, and accountable.
Political analysts say that sustainable democracy goes beyond elections—it requires responsive leadership, citizen engagement, and respect for human rights.
As the country reflects on more than two decades of democracy, civil society groups and everyday Nigerians are urging the government to recommit to democratic values that genuinely uplift its people
About The Author
