Western Democracy and the Dilemma of Nation Building in Africa, the Nigerian Experience (1999-2007)

Abstract

Nigeria witnessed a transition from military to civilian rule in 1999 with a practice of western democracy modeled after that of America. Although Nigeria shares a lot in common with America, its constitution is nothing but a military decreed document that is yet to be reviewed after two tenures of democratic rule. The model chosen has its own fundamental principles and characteristics that serve as a guide. Glances at the Obasanjo's administration in the first and second term indicate that Nigeria is just evolving and that most of these principles are still being abused. The dilemma of building a nation such as Nigeria is a major issue considering the historical antecedents of different ethnic groups in the country. Having experienced a long military rule with a transformed military man under the democratic regime is a major food for thought. The pluralist idea of what democracy means provides a kind of explanation for the ongoing political scenario in Nigeria. The idea of representative government has since been overlooked and has created a form of political apathy in the nation. Although the government is striving to consolidate on the country's "unity in diversity” Nigeria still remains a piece of a whole, which is being kept together by force. Individual interest is now the main thing as against the interest of the majority. Power has long ceased to belong to the electorate. The democracy practiced in Nigeria during the period under review is tending towards dictatorship.