Democracy still crawling in Nigeria, needs urgent reforms

….As Cleric Backs Tinubu’s Subsidy Removal, Calls for Constitutional Reforms, Industrial Revival, Youth Development and Stronger Action Against Insecurity as Nigerians Mark Democracy Day

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

His Eminence Dr. Okeyomi Oladipupo Babatunde, popularly known as “Carry Go” and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has described Nigeria’s democratic journey as still “crawling,” citing persistent insecurity, economic hardship, and governance challenges across the country.

He made the remarks during a Democracy Day interview, where he reviewed Nigeria’s democratic experience and offered recommendations on national development, constitutional reform, and youth empowerment.

Speaking on the significance of June 12, Dr. Okeyomi paid tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, describing him as a symbol of sacrifice whose struggle strengthened Nigeria’s democratic foundation.

“Democracy Day is a special day. It reminds us of what happened around June 12 and the sacrifice of MKO Abiola, who contributed greatly to Nigeria’s political development,” he said.

However, the cleric expressed concern that Nigeria’s democracy remains far from its expected standard, arguing that political ambition and poor leadership decisions have slowed national progress.

According to him, insecurity remains one of the most pressing challenges confronting the country.

“People are suffering. Nigerians are not happy. You cannot travel freely or even stay in your home without fear because of banditry and kidnapping,” he stated.

He also alleged that political interests have contributed to instability in the country, insisting that governance should prioritise citizens’ welfare over personal ambition.

Despite his criticisms, Dr. Okeyomi commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the removal of fuel subsidy, describing it as a bold but necessary reform.

“To remove subsidy in Nigeria is not easy because many people were benefiting from it. That decision alone is worthy of recognition,” he said.

He added that ongoing infrastructure projects such as road and rail development demonstrate signs of progress, although more work is still needed to improve living standards.

On national restructuring, the cleric called for a comprehensive constitutional dialogue involving all sectors of society, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, farmers, and grassroots stakeholders.

“If Nigeria must move forward, every group must be involved in the conversation, not just politicians alone,” he said.

Dr. Okeyomi also emphasized the need for human capital development, urging greater investment in education, science, technology, engineering, and vocational training to reduce unemployment and strengthen productivity.

He expressed concern over the collapse of local industries, lamenting that Nigeria continues to rely heavily on imports despite having abundant raw materials.

“We cannot keep importing everything while our industries are dying. We must revive our factories and create jobs for our youths,” he stated.

On youth development, he advised young Nigerians to focus more on science and technical disciplines, arguing that such fields are crucial for national competitiveness in a global economy.

The cleric further called for stronger security measures, saying citizens should be empowered to protect themselves in the face of growing insecurity, while urging government to intensify efforts to safeguard lives and property.

He concluded by expressing cautious optimism that Nigeria can overcome its current challenges through unity, discipline, and purposeful leadership.