A political analyst, Umar Yari, and the director of the International Human Rights Commission in Kaduna, Maikudi Bawa, have called for reforms to strengthen democracy, uphold the rule of law and improve citizens’ welfare in Nigeria.

The stakeholders made their calls in separate interviews ahead of the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

Mr Yari congratulated Nigerians on the country’s democratic journey, noting that although the nation had recorded progress in various sectors since independence, the benefits had yet to have a significant impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.

According to him, development should be measured by the quality of life of the people rather than by the mere existence of infrastructure and institutions.

“Over the years, Nigeria has achieved growth in education, healthcare, technology and other sectors, but the key question remains whether these achievements have translated into improved living conditions for the average Nigerian.

“The major challenge facing the country is leadership. While not all leaders have failed, many have been unable to provide the visionary and selfless leadership required to drive sustainable development,” he said.

Mr Yari described Nigeria’s democratic experience since 1999 as the longest uninterrupted period of civilian rule in the nation’s history, but expressed concern over what he termed distortions in democratic practice.

He alleged that democratic processes were often manipulated to favour those in power, thereby limiting citizens’ ability to freely choose their leaders. According to him, democracy can only thrive when electoral processes are transparent, credible and guided by the rule of law.

The analyst urged political leaders to embrace democratic principles and ensure fairness in governance, adding that the judiciary must continue to serve as a check against abuse of power.

“The judiciary must remain the last hope of the common man by standing firmly on justice and the rule of law. This will help curb political excesses and strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions,” he said.

Mr Yari also called for greater internal democracy within political parties, saying that the absence of fairness in party structures was undermining democratic development.

He urged leaders to draw lessons from the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who publicly acknowledged irregularities in the electoral process that brought him to office and advocated reforms to strengthen electoral credibility.

Mr Bawa expressed concern over persistent insecurity, economic hardship and humanitarian challenges confronting many Nigerians.

Mr Bawa noted that while democracy had endured since 1999, its success should be measured by the safety, welfare and dignity of citizens.

The rights advocate stressed that national security remained essential for democratic stability and sustainable development.

“A secure nation is the foundation of a prosperous democracy,” Mr Bawa added.

The stakeholders expressed optimism that with stronger institutions, accountable leadership and respect for democratic values, Nigeria could consolidate its democratic gains and deliver greater benefits to its citizens.

(NAN)