As Nigeria marks Democracy Day on June 12, former Ekiti State governor Kayode Fayemi emphasized that while civilian rule has returned since 1999, genuine democracy remains unrealized . He warned against equating elections with true democracy, describing the current system as “semi‑democracy” rather than full democracy .
Speaking during Channels TV’s “Nigeria’s Democratic Journey” forum, Fayemi urged that ongoing efforts by President Tinubu and predecessors must be built upon to deepen democratic institutions . He highlighted his past work with Radio Kudirat during military rule, recalling narrow escapes and great personal risk under Abacha’s dictatorship .
Fayemi praised Tinubu’s recent recognition of democracy activists with national honours but called for broader acknowledgement of journalists and Radio Kudirat operators who risked their lives defending freedom.
Path Forward: Progress needs to build on recent democratic reforms and honours to entrench true democratic governance.
