Democracy has failed in Nigeria! I fear for the next generation because we have been left behind in a world that is moving at an unprecedented speed—a world where artificial intelligence is already transforming the labour market, while we continue to produce “educated illiterates” with loads of certificates but inadequate skills for the future.
Instead of our political leaders being deeply concerned about the growing human liabilities across Nigeria, they appear consumed by the politics of power and the endless struggle for political advantage, while development takes a back seat.
Governor Ademola Adeleke has won the Osun State gubernatorial election, and the dancing continues!
Congratulations to Gov Adeleke for stopping the APC “hawks” from having their way.
However, beyond the declaration of Governor Adeleke as the winner, Nigerians must ask a more fundamental question: What is the real cost of conducting elections in Nigeria?
Nigeria is a country where millions of citizens live in poverty, yet enormous resources are deployed to finance elections. Consider the cost of printing campaign materials, mobilising supporters, providing security, and, most troublingly, the alleged buying of votes.
In my opinion, Nigeria is not practising genuine democracy. What we have is essentially a system of civil rule. It resembles an Animal Farm-like arrangement in which the political class enjoys the benefits of power while the ordinary people remain the real losers.
Why have we made public office so attractive that politics has become an avenue for wealth accumulation and personal advancement?
Until Nigerians wake up from their political slumber and begin to determine how they truly want to be governed, a small political class will continue to take the people for a ride.
I have been informed that Nigerians have begun gathering to discuss what could constitute a more suitable system of governance for the country. From Monday, 17 August to Friday, 21 August 2026, Nigerians from different ethnic groups are expected to gather in Abuja under the banner of the Citizens Assembly on Restructuring Nigeria, with the objective of charting a new political direction for the country.
I see the potential emergence of a new movement driven by Nigerians who are demanding a more responsive and accountable system of governance.
Ndigbo will reportedly be represented by Ambassador Uche Ajuluchukwu-Okeke, Prof. Obasi Igwe, Barr. Emeka Emekesiri, and several others.
Our current democratic experiment has failed to deliver the kind of country Nigerians deserve, and it is increasingly under severe strain. If we continue along this path without fundamental reforms, the system itself may eventually collapse under the weight of public frustration, poverty, insecurity and political corruption.
The time has come for Nigerians to have an honest conversation about the future of the country.
Ndubuisi Anaenugwu
Writes for Good Governance Ministry (GGM)
ggovernanceministry@gmail.com
