National Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Seriake Dickson, has cautioned President Bola Tinubu against actions that could erode Nigeria’s democratic institutions, warning that undermining constitutional governance leaves little distinction between civilian and military rule.
Dickson made the remarks during the Diplomatic Digest 6th Anniversary Lecture, according to a statement published on the Nigeria Democratic Congress’ official social media platforms on Friday.
The former Bayelsa State governor stressed that Nigeria’s democratic progress can only be sustained through strict adherence to the Constitution, an independent judiciary, a free press, and an electoral commission that commands public confidence.
“Democracy is not a sprint; it is a marathon. There are twists and turns, as well as ups and downs. What is important is a commitment to democratic governance, observance of the rule of law, democratic principles, a free and independent media, an impartial judiciary, and an electoral body that is truly independent and enjoys the confidence and trust of the people,” Dickson said.
He added that without these key democratic pillars, “there is little difference between a civilian dictator and a military dictator.”
While acknowledging that Nigeria has moved beyond military rule, Dickson warned that elected leaders must resist the temptation to weaken democratic institutions under the guise of civilian governance.
He also expressed concern over what he described as the declining state of democracy across Africa, particularly within the ECOWAS sub-region, blaming the Federal Government’s foreign policy for weakening the regional bloc.
“It is unfortunate that, under the APC government and its dysfunctional foreign policy, ECOWAS has weakened before our very eyes. The emergence of breakaway blocs, such as the Alliance of Sahel States, does not speak well of Nigerian leadership,” he stated.
Dickson further urged President Tinubu to ensure that state institutions are not deployed for partisan purposes, warning that any government perceived as operating above the Constitution risks losing the trust and support of its citizens.
“When a government is perceived as oppressive, dictatorial, and above the Constitution and the institutions of the state, it inevitably loses the confidence and support of its citizens.
“When a government or political party begins to see itself as bigger than the nation, the Constitution, the judiciary, and other democratic institutions, it loses legitimate and popular support. This remains one of the greatest threats to democracy in the ECOWAS sub-region and in Africa in general,” he said.
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