In a thought-provoking discourse on the future of governance in Africa, former President Olusegun Obasanjo critiqued the imposition of Western-style democracy on the continent, advocating for a paradigm shift towards what he termed “Afro Democracy.” Speaking at a high-level consultation titled ‘Rethinking Western Liberal Democracy for Africa,’ held in Abeokuta, Obasanjo highlighted the shortcomings of the current democratic model in Africa.
Obasanjo asserted that the inherent flaw in the Western-style democracy lies in its failure to truly represent the entirety of African societies. He criticized the system for primarily empowering a select few to govern over the masses, thereby excluding the majority from meaningful representation and decision-making.
Describing the Western liberal democracy as a governance structure that inadequately caters to the needs and aspirations of the African populace, Obasanjo stressed the necessity for an alternative model designed by and for the African people.
He emphasized that the fundamental essence of any governance system should prioritize the welfare and well-being of its citizens. Obasanjo urged a comprehensive reevaluation of the practice of liberal democracy in Africa, encouraging introspection to identify its flaws and proposing recommendations to tailor governance more fittingly to African contexts.
However, perspectives on the efficacy of democracy in Africa varied among experts. While former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, acknowledged the challenges faced by liberal democracy in the continent, emphasizing the need to address developmental gaps, global affairs analyst Paul Ejime held a differing view. Ejime commended recent democratic processes in Liberia, emphasizing the importance of trust in electoral processes and the evolution of a multi-stakeholder approach to governance.
He highlighted the necessity for a robust separation of powers, an independent judiciary, and electoral transparency to strengthen democracy on the continent. Ejime also emphasized the role of the military in safeguarding national territories, underscoring the importance of their non-interference in political governance.
Amidst these discussions, ActionAid Nigeria raised concerns about irregularities and violence observed during off-cycle elections in various Nigerian states. The organization called for a post-election audit to address these challenges and enhance the integrity and neutrality of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a separate event, the Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, highlighted the significance of collective action and integration in shaping Africa’s global political standing. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among African nations to advance common interests in the global arena.
Osaghae also emphasized the mutually beneficial partnerships between nations, citing Nigeria’s relations with Korea as an example of collaborative success.
The discussions underscored the need for critical reevaluation and adaptation of governance models in Africa to better serve the diverse needs and aspirations of its populace.
