Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and 2027 presidential candidate Peter Obi have called for major reforms to Nigeria’s democratic institutions, arguing that the country’s current political system is failing to reflect its history, diversity and values.
They made the call on Tuesday at the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Democracy Dialogue in Bauchi, themed, “Beyond Elections: Can Political Parties and the Judiciary Save African Democracy?”
Obasanjo, who chaired the event, criticised the Western liberal democratic model adopted by many African countries, saying it had produced a “winner-takes-all” political culture that often turns political opponents into enemies.
He argued that Nigeria should develop a democratic system that reflects its own historical and cultural realities rather than simply copying foreign models.
According to the former President, Nigeria’s diversity must also be recognised as a fundamental component of its democracy, warning that ignoring the country’s diverse identities could undermine national unity.
Obasanjo further expressed concern over the growing influence of money in Nigerian politics and the low level of female participation in governance.
He therefore urged African countries to review their democratic structures and develop systems with stronger African context and content.
Speaking at the same event, Obi accused some lawmakers, academics, lawyers, religious leaders and judicial officers of contributing to what he described as the deterioration of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The former Anambra State governor particularly criticised the electoral system and judiciary, alleging that some institutions had been weakened by political interests.
Obi said Nigeria was facing a serious institutional crisis, arguing that democratic institutions must be strengthened if the country is to achieve credible elections and effective governance.
