SUN, JUN 14 2020-theG&BJournal- ‘’The 21 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria has earned the country enormous goodwill as one of the few stable democracies in Africa, however, core democratic values are yet to take firm root in the Nigerian democracy,’’ says the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry while assessing Nigeria democracy at twenty-one.
LCCI, in a written note made available to theG&BJournal, said quality and independence of democratic institutions- Electoral bodies, Law Enforcement Agencies, Judiciary are still not good enough, and they did not give pass mark either to issues of separation of powers and the inherent Checks and balances, accountability by the political leadership, transparency in the management of public finance, rule of law, citizen engagement in the democratic process and entrenchment of the ideals of Federalism.
‘’We recognise that Nigerian democracy is still work in progress, but it is crucial to recognise the importance of these democratic ideals in the sustenance of our democracy’’
The LCCI underscored their view with the dedication of the military which has, over the last 21 years, demonstrated absolute loyalty, respect and submission to the constituted democratic authorities which has earned Nigeria a great deal of respect in the comity of nations.
The Chamber suggests that this is the time to reflect on the critical gaps in the country’s democratic structures and processes as well as economic architecture.
‘’Political leadership at all levels should rededicate themselves to the creation of enabling environment for private sector development with emphasis on streamlining the democratic structures for cost effectiveness and better economics, reduction in cost of doing business through the provision of critical economic infrastructures, creation of a level playing field for all economic players as well as tackling corruption at all levels and spheres of the polity.’’
Strengthening macroeconomic fundamentals of the Nigerian economy, promotion of transparency and accountability in the conduct of government business, strengthening of national institutions, promotion of inclusiveness and engagement in the democratic process and development of human capital are part of the key factors listed alongside to close the gap.
There is also the role Nigerians can play in the endeavour- ‘’ The citizens also have an important responsibility to constantly engage the players in the political space for quality assurance in the political governance process,’’ LCCI said.
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