Former Anambra State governor, Mr. Peter Obi has said that for democracy to work in Africa, critical institutions must command trust and deliver absolute respect for the people’s will.
The Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate in the February 25, 2023, poll added that governance can only deliver tangible benefits when the will of the people prevails.
Obi on his X on Tuesday, said: “The future of democracy in our country took center stage yesterday as I joined other distinguished Nigerians at the National Dialogue on Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathway to Good Governance and Political Integrity, held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Abuja.
“For democracy in Africa to thrive beyond its current fragile state, it must operate within its foundational tenets, going beyond ceremonial elections.
“This requires building critical institutions that command trust and deliver absolute respect for the people’s will. Governance can only deliver tangible benefits when the will of the people prevails.
“I most sincerely express my gratitude to the keynote speaker, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, a distinguished African democrat, who displayed exemplary statesmanship by conceding defeat to John Dramani Mahama before the final election results.
“His actions upheld democratic principles, reinforced Ghana’s reputation for stability, and highlighted the respect for the people’s will, which is essential for democratic growth.
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“With about 100 million Nigerians living in absolute poverty and 150 million in multidimensional poverty, democracy is fast losing its essence if it fails to address the fundamental needs of its citizens, particularly in critical areas such as health, education, and poverty alleviation.
“We must confront the fundamental question: is democracy truly addressing the needs of Nigerians?
Are we building institutions that uphold accountability, justice, and fairness?
“To achieve a functional democracy, we must prioritise strengthening independent institutions, fostering governance that delivers economic and social progress, encouraging active citizenship to hold leaders accountable, and empowering our youth as drivers of nation-building.
“As Nelson Mandela once said, ‘As long as poverty, injustice, and inequality exist, none of us can truly rest.’ Now is the time to deepen democracy and build a better future for all Nigerians.
“Amid the rise of coups across Africa and the growing fragility of democracies globally, it is evident that democracy cannot thrive without trust, robust institutions, and a steadfast commitment to the welfare of the people.
“Together, we can build a productive new Nigeria that is possible,” he added.
