Why is democracy failing in Nigeria?, what can we do about it?

Despite challenges, democracy is very successful in America and Europe, especially the United Kingdom . So why is it failing in Nigeria?

According to Nick Clegg, Former UK Deputy Prime Minister, "Democracy can only be defended if we first understand how it is being attacked". This is the mission of this blog. It's a must read for anyone interested in our democracy, even if we may not have all the answers, but we can help change your world view so that you can be on the right side of history. 

We believe in inclusiveness. Democray can succeed if it's inclusive. One way this can happen is free and fair election that is also free from violence so that we can have good leadership capable of delivering a good future.

Today in Nigeria, democracy is under attack . Civil and Political liberties is under severe attack. There is also a new peril, the Fulani Herdsmen threatening security and national unity.  The government is only interested in the next-election and the prospects for free and fair election is doubtful given the desperation, repression, manipulation, nepotism, propaganda, insecurity and violence, etc. The bitter relationship between the Executive and the legislature adds to the nation's woes.

"Throughout my reading of history, political science and social sciences generally, I have never heard of any dictator or any tyrant under any system of government whether totalitarian or fascist, appointing his own niece to conduct elections in which he was either a party or going to be a party to; Buhari has done that"- Dr Junaid Muhammed , [Nepotism Is Too Prevalent in Buhari's Government; Independent, October 2, 2017]

Similarly, almost all the security heads, the head of the Independent National Electoral Commission and the head of the judiciary are the President's kinsmen, so this dampens any hope for credidble elections come 2019, the result is violence.

Follow us on our various networks to find out more about Nigeria's devastation by Autocracy. History is repeating itself.  Read: http://www.theleadprojectfoundation.com/ wherever you are, even in remote villages , this can help to change your world view. We will soon be producing newsletters to reach those without internet access.

The truth is that the same politicians you die for, using you as thugs for election violence are the reason why you are suffering, because they don't believe in 'growth for all'. This is the time to think different!. The system works for just few people; their families, friends and associates. Do not allow yourselves to be used as political thugs.

Remember:  Nigeria is not a homogeneous society, so do not be fooled. The status-quo will never bring the desired CHANGE! . The solution is RESTRUCTURING- Move Power down to Identity , so that the people can take their destiny in their own hands including electing their own choice without interference and the protection of lives and properties of their own people..

Do not SELL your VOTES. They have the 'guns and the money', so it's carrot and stick strategy. Be bribed or be destroyed, so be wise.  Your vote is one way you can help make change happen, so ensure that you register to vote. Vote for any political party with credible candidates to instill confidence and hope for a good future.

Uche Okeke is a Social Entrepreneur.