Obasanjo, Obi demand major shake-up of democratic institutions

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and presidential candidate Peter Obi have called for a significant overhaul of Nigeria's democratic institutions, criticizing the current system's effectiveness and relevance.

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The democracy we practise has no African context, no African content, and if you try to use what is not meant for you to serve your purpose, it is like a dress for which you are not measured.

Speaking at the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Democracy Dialogue in Bauchi, Obasanjo argued that the Western liberal democracy adopted by many African nations does not reflect the continent's history, culture, or values. He described the prevailing 'winner-takes-all' model as problematic, fostering an environment where political opponents are viewed as enemies rather than partners in governance. Obasanjo emphasized that adopting systems not suited for the continent is like wearing an ill-fitting garment.

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In practice, we have winner takes all, first past the post. If you beat me by one vote, then you take it all and whatever I have does not matter.

Obasanjo further highlighted the challenges of the first-past-the-post electoral system, where a narrow victory can grant total control, leading to the marginalization of losers. He noted that the concept of a 'loyal opposition,' inherited from Western systems, is difficult to sustain in Africa, where opposition is often perceived as enmity, leading to destructive tactics. The former president also warned against neglecting Nigeria's diversity, which he considers fundamental to its identity, and expressed concern over the escalating influence of money and inducements in politics.

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So, what do you do with your enemy? You crush him and destroy him, and that is what we have.

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress in the 2027 election, echoed these sentiments, alleging widespread institutional decay. Both leaders stressed the need for African countries to reassess their democratic models, suggesting the development of systems that incorporate African contexts and values, even if they retain the name 'democracy.' Obasanjo specifically pointed out the under-representation of women in Nigerian politics, noting that no woman has been elected governor since the Fourth Republic began over two decades ago.

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Nigeria is what it is because of our diversity. Remove diversity out of Nigeria, you will probably have the Republic of Oduduwa; that will not be Nigeria. Or the Republic of Danfodio; that will not be Nigeria. That diversity must be nourished and be taken care of.