By Caleb Ishaya Ishaya
As Nigeria commemorates 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, Yiaga Africa paid special tribute to forefathers, mothers of democracy.
Yiaga Africa called on the Federal Government to renegotiate new social compact with Nigerians.
In a statement signed by the Executive Director, Samson Itodo, he pointed out that Nigeria’s democracy shows signs of progress, significant challenges remain including incidences of election malpractices, electoral violence and intimidation remain a significant concern.
Samson said: “Today, we commemorate 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria’s journey to nationhood. This significant milestone is a testament to the collective will and commitment of the Nigerian people to democratic ethos and principles, including the courage, resilience, and patriotism that transcend demography, geography, ethnicity, and religion.
“Yiaga Africa pays special tribute to our forefathers and mothers who led the struggle for democracy. We celebrate their courage and resistance to authoritarian rule, which paved the way for the
Yiaga Africa reflects on it with pride, trepidation, and unwavering hope for the future.
“Over the past 25 years since return to democratic rule, Nigeria has witnessed incremental political, social, and economic gains. As a system of government, democracy has enabled increased citizens participation and strengthened democratic institutions despite the allure of institutional capture. The conduct of periodic elections despite challenges and the transition of power a ests to the durability of Nigeria’s democracy. The existence of a vibrant civil society, media and active citizens demanding accountability from public leaders and institutions has been pivotal to democratic consolidation in the last 25 years.
“While Nigeria’s democracy shows signs of progress, significant challenges remain. Incidences of election malpractices, electoral violence and intimidation remain a significant concern, deterring voter participation and compromising the integrity of elections. Corruption and lack of accountability by public leaders continues to plague Nigeria’s political landscape, eroding public trust in democratic institutions.
“Despite progress, women, youth, and persons with disability remain underrepresented in political leadership and decision-making processes.
“The Imperative of Renegotiating a New Social Compact; Trust in government and institutions has declined over the past 25 years.
” A new social compact can help restore this trust by making governance more transparent, accountable, and responsive to citizens’ needs.
“Renegotiating the social compact can create a more inclusive society with equal opportunities and access to resources for all. It can also emphasize shared values and responsibilities, fostering community and solidarity among citizens. This is crucial for addressing collective challenges such as public health crises, security threats, economic depression, political exclusion and social cohesion.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we call on all stakeholders -government, political parties, civil society, and the private sector – to renegotiate a new social compact with citizens.
“This social compact should aim to achieve the following objectives: Improve social conditions through wealth redistribution, job creation,
and food security; Safeguard the right to vote and respects choices expressed through the ballot.
“Strengthen local governance by devolving powers to local governments, promoting local democracy, and enabling citizen participation; Deepen public accountability and ensure consequences for breaches “
