Nigeria’s Democracy at Risk from Authoritarian Tendencies – CISLAC

By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has released a comprehensive mid-term assessment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, highlighting both progress and persistent challenges across Nigeria’s executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

The report notes that Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and unification of exchange rates, have won praise from international financial institutions. However, ordinary Nigerians are struggling with soaring inflation, stagnant real wages, and increased poverty.

CISLAC criticizes the government’s handling of civil liberties, citing heavy-handed responses to dissent and restrictions on peaceful assembly. The report warns that this trend toward authoritarianism risks undermining fundamental democratic rights.

Despite increased defense budgets and new security outfits, violence persists in key regions, including Zamfara, Kaduna, Plateau, and parts of the South-East. CISLAC advocates for integrated security approaches emphasizing inter-agency collaboration and community policing.

The report highlights the government’s anti-corruption efforts, but notes that selective enforcement and failure to prosecute high-profile figures undermine the campaign’s integrity. CISLAC stresses that impartiality is essential for meaningful progress.

The judiciary, despite commendable strides, faces persistent challenges, including backlogs, inconsistent verdicts, and executive interference. CISLAC emphasizes the importance of judicial independence and autonomy in safeguarding civil liberties.

The report notes that despite government interventions, over 31 million Nigerians remain food insecure. CISLAC emphasizes the need for sustainable solutions, including land safety, rural development, and market access.

CISLAC criticizes the administration’s appointment pattern, citing lack of inclusivity and failure to uphold the federal character principle. The report warns that this threatens national cohesion and unity.

The report highlights the need for job creation, entrepreneurship, and industrialization to stem the loss of Nigerian talent and ensure sustainable development. CISLAC contends that the government must prioritize employment and poverty reduction.

The report notes that public education quality is deteriorating, and healthcare services remain largely inaccessible to the poor. CISLAC emphasizes the need for tangible improvements in citizens’ daily lives.

The report assesses the 10th National Assembly, noting both progress and challenges. CISLAC calls on lawmakers to prioritize national interest above partisan or personal ambitions.

The report highlights legislative gridlock, suspensions of members, and allegations of executive interference. CISLAC warns that these actions risk undermining democratic accountability.

The report emphasizes the judiciary’s role in safeguarding democracy, stressing the need for independence, impartiality, and the rule of law.

The Centre urges a shift toward people-centered policies, including increasing the minimum wage, comprehensive judicial and security sector reforms, and renewed investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and social services.