Professor Attahiru Muhammadu Jega, former Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has issued a stark warning that Nigeria’s democracy is dangerously underdeveloped and is being replaced by “elected autocracy.” Speaking at The Platform Nigeria event in Lagos on June 12, 2025, Jega lamented that while Nigeria has perfected the rituals of democracy—such as elections and political handovers—it has failed to build the essential substance of democracy: functioning institutions, accountable leaders, and a trusting citizenry.
Jega identified the constitutional immunity clause protecting presidents and governors as a central problem, arguing that it has become a shield for corruption and abuse rather than a protection against frivolous litigation. “Executives have looted public funds, manipulated institutions, and trampled on rights without consequence,” he said, describing the current system as one where leaders “are above the law” for their term in office.
He emphasized that removing immunity is only the starting point. The judiciary, he explained, is compromised by political interference, underfunding, and opaque appointments, resulting in delayed justice and tolerance of impunity. Jega called for comprehensive judicial reform to restore courts as impartial temples of justice serving all Nigerians equally.
Highlighting the media’s crucial role in democracy, Jega noted that Nigerian journalists face harassment and censorship, undermining democratic oversight. He urged full enforcement of the Freedom of Information Act and higher ethical standards in journalism to combat disinformation and hate speech.
On electoral integrity, Jega praised INEC’s technological advances but criticized executive influence over appointments and the commission’s overloaded responsibilities. He recommended unbundling INEC’s functions to allow it to focus solely on election management, alongside transparent and secure use of technology to ensure credible elections.
Jega also condemned the unchecked dominance of the executive branch at federal and state levels, which he said operates with little scrutiny, misuses security votes, and prioritizes loyalty over competence. He called for drastic cuts in political appointments, transparent public spending, and adherence to budgets.
Ultimately, Jega stressed that democracy’s survival depends on active citizen engagement. He urged Nigerians to reject vote-buying, ethnic politics, and apathy, and to demand accountability and inclusive participation including voting rights for the diaspora, early voting for essential workers, and legislative quotas for women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
Concluding, Jega called for a full democratic reset, warning that without urgent reforms Nigeria risks democratic collapse. “This republic can still be saved, if we act with urgency, clarity, and courage. Let the reforms begin. Let the people rise. Let democracy, finally, be real.”
