Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has argued that Nigeria has not yet become a truly democratic nation, despite more than two decades of civilian rule.
Speaking during an interview, Sowore claimed that Nigeria's transition to civilian government in 1999 did not translate into genuine democracy, insisting that key democratic principles such as free and fair elections, openness, accountability and popular participation remain weak.
According to him, "Nigeria had a transition to civil rule. It never became a democratic nation."
The activist alleged that he has repeatedly faced harassment, arrests and legal challenges because of his political activities and activism. He also claimed that during one of his court cases, attempts were made to prevent the presentation of evidence, although he did not provide new evidence to substantiate the allegations during the interview.
Sowore further criticized the country's electoral process, arguing that democracy should not be measured solely by the conduct of election-day voting but by the entire political process leading up to elections.
He maintained that political parties should operate transparently, candidates should freely present their ideas to Nigerians, and campaigns should be conducted without intimidation or threats.
According to him, Nigeria cannot claim to have achieved full democracy while political actors and citizens allegedly face restrictions on political participation and freedom of expression.
The former presidential candidate also criticized the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing it of undermining democratic values. He alleged that those currently in power are resistant to openness, competitive elections and broader democratic reforms.
Sowore further argued that Nigeria should focus on strengthening institutions capable
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