Fayemi: Nigeria Has Civilian Rule, Not True Democracy

Kayode Fayemi

Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi has stated that Nigeria is not yet a full democracy but is merely under civilian rule. Speaking during a Channels Television programme in honour of Democracy Day, Fayemi stressed that holding elections alone does not equate to practicing democracy.

“What began in 1999 was the right to vote for leaders, but democracy involves more than elections. What we have is at best a semi-democracy,” he said.

While acknowledging progress made since the return to civilian rule, he pointed out that Nigeria still lacks strong democratic institutions and a robust democratic culture.

Recalling his days as a pro-democracy activist under the military regime of General Sani Abacha, Fayemi shared how he helped operate Radio Kudirat—a clandestine station broadcasting against the regime. He once smuggled the station’s transmitter into Nigeria on an Air France flight, risking his life.

He emphasized that those who lost their lives in the struggle were not careless, but deeply committed to the cause of freedom. “Some of us survived by luck,” he said. “Those who died believed in the mission.”

Fayemi also mentioned that during the Oputa Panel hearings, it was revealed that certain agents were assigned to eliminate activists.

He appreciated the national honours recently awarded to pro-democracy advocates by President Bola Tinubu but noted that many unsung heroes behind the scenes were not recognized.

“Yes, I was the face of Radio Kudirat,” he said, “but I wasn’t alone. Many others played vital roles and deserve acknowledgment.”

His remarks have sparked renewed discussions about the state of Nigeria’s democracy and the need for deeper reforms.

Daily Trust

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