By Eneojo Herbert.
Democracy Day in Nigeria, celebrated annually on June 12th, marks the restoration of democratic governance in the country. This day is a commemoration of the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest election in Nigeria’s history. The day is meant to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for the nation’s democracy and to celebrate the principles of freedom, justice, and good governance. However, Democracy Day 2024 is overshadowed by a grim reality: widespread hunger and starvation ocassioned by rising costs of food stuffs and transportation. This paradox of celebration amidst suffering highlights significant challenges in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Historical Significance of Democracy Day
June 12th holds a deep historical significance for Nigerians. The election of 1993, which saw Moshood Abiola as the likely winner, was annulled by the military regime, leading to widespread unrest and the eventual transition to civilian rule in 1999. Democracy Day was officially recognized in 2018 by President Muhammadu Buhari, moving it from May 29th to June 12th to honor this pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
The day is celebrated with speeches, parades, and various events that emphasize democratic values and the importance of participatory governance. It is a day of reflection on how far the nation has come in its democratic journey and what lies ahead. However, the celebration in 2024 is starkly contrasted by the prevailing conditions of hunger and poverty affecting millions of Nigerians.
The Reality of Hunger and Starvation
Despite its vast natural resources and economic potential, Nigeria continues to grapple with severe food insecurity. The World Bank and various international organizations have highlighted the alarming rates of hunger and malnutrition in the country. Factors contributing to this crisis include poor agricultural practices, climate change, conflict, and economic instability.
1.Agricultural Challenges: Nigeria’s agricultural sector, which employs a significant portion of the population, is plagued by issues such as outdated farming techniques, lack of access to credit and modern inputs, and inadequate infrastructure. These challenges hinder productivity and contribute to food scarcity.
2.Climate Change: Erratic weather patterns, including droughts and floods, have disrupted agricultural cycles, leading to poor harvests. Climate change exacerbates these issues, making it increasingly difficult for farmers to predict and adapt to changing conditions.
3.Conflict and Insecurity: Persistent conflicts, especially in the Northeast region, have displaced millions of people, disrupting their livelihoods and agricultural activities. The presence of insurgent groups like Boko Haram has further destabilized the region, making it challenging to carry out farming and food production activities.
4.Economic Instability:
High inflation rates, unemployment, removal of fuel subsidy by the current regime, floating and devaluing of the Naira have reduced the purchasing power of Nigerians, making it difficult for many to afford basic food items. The economic policies implemented to stabilize the economy have often failed to address the immediate needs of the poorest citizens.
The Paradox of Celebration
The celebration of Democracy Day amidst widespread hunger and starvation presents a paradox that questions the very essence of democratic governance. Democracy is supposed to be a system that ensures the well-being of all citizens, providing them with opportunities to improve their lives. However, the current situation in Nigeria raises critical questions about the effectiveness of its democratic institutions and the commitment of its leaders to the principles of democracy.
1.Government Accountability:
A fundamental tenet of democracy is holding elected officials accountable for their actions and policies. The persistence of hunger and poverty suggests a failure in governance and a lack of accountability. It highlights the need for transparent and responsive government actions to address the root causes of food insecurity.
2.Economic Policies:
The paradox also underscores the need to re-evaluate economic policies and prioritize the welfare of the most vulnerable citizens. Economic growth that does not translate into improved living conditions for the majority is a hollow achievement. Policies must focus on inclusive growth that benefits all segments of society.
3 Social Justice:
Democracy is also about social justice and equitable distribution of resources. The stark contrast between the celebrations of Democracy Day and the harsh realities faced by many Nigerians indicates a significant gap in social equity. Bridging this gap requires a commitment to policies that address inequality and provide equal opportunities for all citizens.
4.Public Participation:
True democracy thrives on the active participation of citizens in governance. However, hunger and poverty can severely limit people’s ability to engage in democratic processes. Ensuring food security and basic needs is essential for empowering citizens to participate meaningfully in governance and hold their leaders accountable.
Addressing the Crisis
To resolve this paradox and align the celebration of Democracy Day with the expected realities of Nigerians, comprehensive and sustained efforts are required. Addressing hunger and starvation must become a top priority for the government and all stakeholders.
1.Agricultural Reform:
Investing in modern agricultural practices, providing access to credit, and improving rural infrastructure can boost productivity and food security. Supporting smallholder farmers and promoting sustainable farming practices are crucial steps in this direction.
2.Climate Resilience:
Developing and implementing strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture is essential. This includes investing in climate-resilient crops, improving irrigation systems, and providing farmers with timely weather information and support.
3.Conflict Resolution:
Addressing the root causes of conflict and promoting peace and stability in affected regions is critical for restoring agricultural activities and livelihoods. This requires a comprehensive approach that includes security measures, dialogue, and development initiatives.
4.Economic Inclusion:
Economic policies should prioritize job creation, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and social safety nets for the poorest citizens. Ensuring that economic growth benefits all segments of society can help reduce poverty and hunger.
5.Strengthening Institutions:
Building strong, transparent, and accountable institutions is essential for effective governance. This includes ensuring that public resources are managed efficiently and that there is zero tolerance for corruption.
Conclusion
Democracy Day 2024 serves as a reminder of Nigeria’s democratic achievements and the sacrifices made to attain them. However, the widespread hunger and starvation experienced by many Nigerians reveal a significant disconnect between the ideals of democracy and the lived realities of the populace. This paradox calls for urgent action to address the underlying issues of food insecurity and poverty. By focusing on inclusive economic policies, agricultural reform, climate resilience, conflict resolution, and strengthening institutions, Nigeria can ensure that the celebration of Democracy Day truly reflects the well-being and prosperity of all its citizens. Only then can the promise of democracy be fully realized, providing a foundation for a just and equitable society.
– Eneojo Herbert, a media consultant, writes from Abuja.
