Abubakar: No Alternative to Democracy

Former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, has emphasized that democracy remains the only viable option for Nigeria, urging citizens and political parties to nurture and sustain the democratic system....CONTINUE READING>>>

Abubakar made this assertion at the launch of the book “100 Years of Political Parties Evolution in Nigeria, 1923 – 2023”, organized by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Abuja. The event, themed “100 Years of Political Parties Evolution in Nigeria – The Imperative of Nigeria’s Political Stability: Issues and Solutions”, celebrated the evolution of political parties in the country.

Speaking as the chairman of the occasion, Abubakar acknowledged the challenges democracy had faced in Nigeria, including military interventions. However, he stressed that democracy had firmly taken root in the country, particularly since his government, as the military Head of State, facilitated the transition to civilian rule in 1999.

He stated:
“It shows that when leaders are patriotic, passionate, resolute and unwavering in building strong democratic structures and institutions, democracy could flourish and yield its dividends to citizens. We should therefore keep watering and nurturing the tree of democracy as there is no alternative to civil rule.”

Abubakar praised the resilience of Nigerians, noting that despite challenges, the democratic system had endured, proving citizens’ belief in representative governance. He emphasized that political parties must prioritize the consolidation of democracy, fostering conditions for free and fair elections, and strengthening political stability.

Abubakar also advocated for reforms in Nigeria’s Constitution and Electoral Act to address existing flaws in the electoral process, urging political parties to revisit key practices like party leadership supremacy, adherence to party manifestos, and ideology-driven membership.

In related discussions, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, urged politicians to avoid using ethnicity for political or personal gain. Abbas called for ethnic issues to be used to address national challenges such as hunger, insecurity, and poor infrastructure.

Abbas also criticized the commercialization of party ownership, stressing that parties should be more inclusive, with members contributing to their development rather than wealthy individuals dominating the process.

Yusuf Dantalle, Chairman of IPAC, hailed the book as an insightful reflection of Nigeria’s political journey, documenting both the challenges and achievements of the country’s political parties over the past century. Dantalle urged Nigerians to reflect on the past, celebrate current milestones, and work toward a united and prosperous future. He reaffirmed IPAC’s commitment to strengthening democracy through innovative initiatives and collaborations.