By Dare Akogun
A former Leader of the Kwara State House of Assembly during the Second Republic, Chief Stephen Wole Oke has expressed deep concerns over the state of democracy in Nigeria, highlighting several issues that have plagued the country’s political system since its independence in 1960.
In a recent statement made available to newsmen in Ilorin, Chief Oke lamented that democracy in Nigeria has suffered serious setbacks, primarily due to the pervasive influence of godfatherism, which he described as a major factor in determining both party candidates and election outcomes.
He pointed out that the lack of political parties rooted in identifiable ideological doctrines and the high level of illiteracy among the electorate have further compounded these issues.
Chief Oke who is also the Jagunmolu of Shao also criticized the frequent military interventions in Nigeria’s political history, which have disrupted civilian administrations and stunted the growth of democratic institutions.
He noted that out of the sixty-four years since independence, military regimes have ruled for approximately thirty years, causing significant damage to the democratic process.
Reflecting on the efforts of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) during military rule, Chief Oke commended the sacrifices made by its members to restore democratic governance in Nigeria.
He urged contemporary politicians to abandon money politics, which he said perpetuates the power of godfathers and prevents the establishment of a true constitutional democracy.
Chief Oke expressed hope that Nigeria would eventually enjoy a true democratic dispensation that benefits the greatest number of its citizens, rather than being dominated by a minority of influential godfathers and the elite.
