Nigeria's Democratic Struggles: Farotimi's Bold Take On Governance

Scope 03 Apr 2025

Nigeria Is Not A Democracy, It's Nice To Hear El-Rufai Bleat - Farotimi

Human Rights Lawyer Farotimi Speaks Out: Nigeria Isn’t Practicing True Democracy

In a bold statement that's making waves across Nigeria, human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi has come forward to declare that Nigeria isn’t truly practicing democracy. Farotimi argues that the Nigerian people aren't being treated as full citizens, and that the current political climate lacks the essential elements of a functioning democracy. Naija News reports that Farotimi believes that unless the suffering of the masses is recognized and addressed across the board, there won’t be a unified effort to combat bad governance.

Why Farotimi’s Words Matter

Farotimi’s comments are more than just criticism—they’re a wake-up call for Nigerians and their leaders. He recently spoke with News Central, where he shared his thoughts on the current state of affairs. As a former member of Peter Obi’s presidential campaign organization, Farotimi isn’t shy about voicing his opinions. He pointed out that it’s refreshing to see that President Bola Tinubu’s actions are finally affecting those who helped bring him to power. The former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, and other governors are now expressing concerns about Tinubu’s leadership, not just because of its impact on the citizens, but because it’s hitting them personally too.

Farotimi emphasized that the suffering of the average Nigerian has long gone unnoticed. Now, as those in power begin to feel the pinch, there’s a glimmer of hope that they’ll start to understand the struggles of the everyday person. It’s a turning point, one that could inspire meaningful change if handled correctly.

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Farotimi’s Powerful Words

Here’s what Farotimi had to say in his interview:

“For years, I’ve been shouting from the rooftops that Nigeria isn’t a democracy. The people here aren’t treated as citizens. The rule of law is a distant dream, and instead of leaders, we have ruiners. This isn’t a new revelation—it’s been going on for years. But here’s the catch: until suffering is democratized, meaning everyone feels its sting, we won’t find the consensus needed to fight against the chaos that plagues our nation.

“Yesterday’s beneficiaries, those who brought Tinubu to power, the ones who turned a blind eye to the truth, who justified the system, and who are complicit in its creation—they’re now becoming its victims. Those who helped install this man will be the first to suffer under his rule. And it’s a beautiful thing to see them start to feel victimized, just like the average Nigerian has been feeling for years. If suffering isn’t democratized, we won’t find the motivation to fight it. It’s refreshing to hear people like El-Rufai finally complaining. For years, their victims have been doing the same, but no one listened.

“If El-Rufai were still sitting in his ministerial office, I doubt we’d hear him bleating. It’s only now, when he and others are feeling the heat, that they realize the importance of reining in power. It’s a beautiful thing to see them worried about how Tinubu will wield the power he’s claimed through the National Assembly. Their worry is a sign that they’re beginning to understand the need to control that power.”

What Does This Mean for Nigeria’s Future?

Farotimi’s words highlight a critical moment in Nigeria’s political journey. For too long, the voices of ordinary Nigerians have been drowned out by the elite. But now, as those in power begin to feel the same pain as the masses, there’s a chance for real change. The key lies in democratizing suffering—ensuring that everyone, regardless of their position, feels the impact of poor governance. This shared experience could unite Nigerians in their fight for a better future.

As Farotimi noted, it’s a beautiful thing to see those who once ignored the struggles of the common man now feeling the same pain. It’s a step in the right direction, but the real work lies ahead. Nigerians must continue to push for accountability and transparency, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met. Only then can Nigeria truly claim to be a democracy.