Nigeria's Democracy Under Threat Without Strong Rule of Law, Leaders Warn

ThisDay highlights a significant gathering in Lagos that served not only to celebrate the enduring legacy of Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN) but also to critically assess Nigeria's democratic journey. The public presentation of the book 'Gani Fawehinmi and the Nigerian Press' brought together a diverse group of stakeholders—political leaders, veteran journalists, academics, and civil rights advocates—underscoring Fawehinmi's multifaceted impact on human rights and press freedom in Nigeria.

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Nigeria’s democracy risks gradual erosion if citizens and political actors persist in undermining the judiciary.

The event's focus extended beyond remembrance to a robust discussion on the current state of Nigeria's democracy. A central theme was the urgent need for judicial independence and the strengthening of democratic institutions. The warnings issued by speakers about the "continued disregard for court decisions" and the "growing distrust of judicial institutions" resonate deeply within Nigeria, where the judiciary is often seen as the last bastion of hope against executive overreach and injustice.

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Respect for the rule of law is the “bedrock of democratic stability.”

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani's address powerfully articulated this concern, stating that Nigeria's democracy risks "gradual erosion" if the judiciary is not respected. He rightly identified respect for the rule of law as the "bedrock of democratic stability," drawing parallels to the pro-democracy struggles of the past, particularly the June 12, 1993, crisis. Sani's critique of those who "speak lightly about military rule" is particularly pertinent, reminding Nigerians of the immense sacrifices made by activists and journalists who endured persecution for the freedoms enjoyed today. His personal and state contributions towards the book's distribution further emphasize the commitment to preserving the memory and lessons of Fawehinmi's fight for justice and good governance.

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That struggle took years in court, but we remained committed because we believed in the judiciary. Today, many benefit from those victories, yet some still fail to respect the same institution that made them possible.