Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi have called for major reforms of Nigeria’s democratic institutions, arguing that the country’s current political system is failing to deliver effective governance and development.
They spoke at the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Democracy Dialogue in Bauchi State, which was themed “Beyond Elections: Can Political Parties and the Judiciary Save African Democracy?”
Obasanjo, who chaired the dialogue, criticised the wholesale adoption of Western liberal democracy by African countries. He argued that the system does not sufficiently reflect Africa’s history, culture and values and has contributed to a “winner-takes-all” political culture.
According to the former president, Nigeria and other African countries need to develop democratic models that are better suited to their circumstances rather than simply replicating systems designed for Western societies.
Obasanjo said the current system often encourages political opponents to regard one another as enemies instead of partners working toward the development of their countries. He advocated a more inclusive form of governance capable of accommodating different interests and perspectives.
Obi, for his part, highlighted what he described as widespread institutional decay within Nigeria’s democratic system. He argued that weak institutions have undermined effective governance and contributed to the country’s persistent political and socioeconomic challenges.
The former presidential candidate stressed the need to strengthen democratic institutions, including political parties and the judiciary, so that they can operate independently and effectively.
The speakers’ comments come amid growing debate over the state of democracy in Nigeria, particularly concerns surrounding electoral credibility, political accountability, judicial independence and the internal functioning of political parties.
The dialogue therefore focused not only on elections but also on how Nigeria and other African countries can build institutions capable of sustaining democracy beyond individual political leaders.
Obasanjo and Obi’s calls add to growing demands for structural reforms that would make Nigeria’s democratic system more accountable, inclusive and responsive to the needs of citizens.
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