As Nigeria navigates its complex political landscape, concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of its political parties. Salihu Moh. Lukman, the immediate past National Vice Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), recently articulated a pressing issue: Nigeria is now a democracy without functional political parties. This statement reflects a growing sentiment among citizens who feel disillusioned with the current state of governance and party politics.
The Current Political Landscape
Lukman pointed out that many Nigerians believe it is nearly impossible to produce leaders capable of addressing the nation’s myriad challenges. He criticised the current opposition leaders, asserting that they are part of the same political establishment that has contributed to the country’s ongoing despair. With former President Buhari‘s administration criticised for failing to meet citizens’ expectations, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu facing similar scrutiny, there is a palpable sense of frustration among the populace.
The lack of functional political parties has led to a situation where citizens feel disconnected from their representatives. Political parties, which should serve as platforms for collective action and accountability, often operate without clear ideological frameworks. Instead, they are dominated by personalities and patron-client relationships that stifle meaningful public dialogue and engagement.
The Need for Reform
Lukman emphasized that merely establishing new opposition parties will not suffice; there must be a genuine commitment to breaking free from destructive practices that reduce political parties to mere electoral platforms. He called for the inclusion of credible opposition figures—such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and others—in leadership roles within any new party structure. This approach aims to ensure that the agenda for rescuing Nigeria transcends mere electoral ambitions and focusses on building strong, accountable institutions.
The absence of robust party structures has resulted in frequent shifts in party allegiance and internal conflicts, undermining effective governance. Many young Nigerians feel marginalised in the political process, often relegated to roles as tools for violence during elections rather than being empowered as active participants in shaping their future.
Lessons from Abroad
Drawing parallels with international political systems, observers have noted that Nigerian political parties can learn valuable lessons from more established democracies. For instance, effective party structures should prioritise transparency, accountability, and ideological coherence. By fostering an environment where public discourse thrives and civic engagement is encouraged, Nigerian political parties could better represent diverse interests and enhance their legitimacy.
The assertion that Nigeria is a democracy without functional political parties highlights a critical juncture in the nation’s governance. As citizens express their discontent with the current state of affairs, it becomes increasingly clear that reforming political parties is essential for revitalising democracy in Nigeria. By prioritising accountability, inclusivity, and genuine representation, there lies an opportunity to reshape the political landscape into one that truly serves the needs and aspirations of its people. The path forward requires collective effort from all stakeholders to foster a more vibrant and responsive democratic system.
By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub
