Oby Ezekwesili Exposes Deficiencies in Nigeria's Democratic Practices

Oby Ezekwesili, a prominent Nigerian activist and former education minister, recently addressed a gathering in Lagos, emphasising that democracy does not belong solely to politicians. Her remarks come as Nigeria approaches the elections scheduled for February 2024, raising the stakes for citizen engagement and governance.

The Call for Citizen Participation

Ezekwesili, speaking at a town hall meeting on October 14, 2023, urged citizens to take ownership of their democracy. She stated, “Democracy is not a spectator sport. It belongs to the people, not merely those in power.” Her advocacy aligns with broader African development goals that call for increased civic engagement and accountability within governance.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria has a youth population of over 60 million, making their involvement crucial for a sustainable democratic process. Ezekwesili believes that empowering this demographic can lead to significant improvements in governance and development across the continent.

The Challenges Facing Nigeria

Nigeria faces ongoing challenges, including corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and poor health services. Ezekwesili's emphasis on democratic ownership speaks directly to these issues. She noted that without active participation from citizens, politicians may not prioritise the needs of the populace.

With an estimated 40% of Nigerians living in poverty, as reported by the World Bank, the urgency for a responsive democratic system is greater than ever. Her advocacy seeks to galvanise the populace to demand accountability and better performance from their elected officials.

Opportunities for Change

Ezekwesili's call to action resonates with the African Union's Agenda 2063, which strives for inclusive governance and economic growth. By demanding more from their leaders, Nigerians can align their efforts with continental objectives that prioritise development, education, and health.

The recent surge in youth-led movements across Africa illustrates a shift towards demanding better governance. Ezekwesili pointed out that this trend offers a unique opportunity for systemic change as citizens push for reforms that can dismantle outdated practices.

Health and Education as Key Focus Areas

In her address, Ezekwesili highlighted the need for investment in health and education. She stated, “Without education, there can be no informed citizenry capable of holding leadership accountable.”

In recent years, Nigeria has seen a decline in educational outcomes, with only 35% of primary school students achieving basic literacy, according to UNICEF. Addressing these gaps is critical for fostering a democratic culture that values informed decision-making.

Governance and Economic Growth

Ezekwesili urged that economic growth should not merely be measured by GDP, but rather by the quality of life for citizens. She insists that democratic governance must pivot towards creating opportunities that benefit all, not just a select few.

“We must ensure that economic policies are inclusive,” she remarked, citing the need for job creation initiatives that focus on youth employment and skill development. Such measures could help Nigeria tap into its demographic potential and drive economic growth.

The Road Ahead: What to Watch

As Nigeria gears up for the 2024 elections, all eyes will be on the level of civic engagement and how it influences the election outcomes. Ezekwesili’s message is clear: citizens must mobilise and demand a government that reflects their needs.

Upcoming events, including community forums and youth conferences, will be critical in shaping the conversations around democracy and governance. The future of Nigeria's democracy hinges on whether its citizens feel empowered to participate actively in the political landscape.