Former Minister of Education, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of being compromised, warning that Nigeria’s democracy has been corrupted and no longer functions effectively.
Speaking on Arise Television’s news programme on Thursday, Ezekwesili said citizens have gradually become powerless and disengaged as democratic institutions fail to uphold their mandates.
“Democracy is being captured by the powerful in most societies where it exists. The marginalization of citizens happened gradually, as people realized that the social contract with the state was failing them,” she said.
According to her, the withdrawal of citizens from active participation in governance has paved the way for state capture, while institutions meant to safeguard democracy have lost credibility.
She cited INEC and the judiciary as prime examples of bodies that no longer command public trust.
“The INEC as an electoral umpire is compromised. They don’t have the trust of society. The judiciary has also engulfed itself in political shenanigans. And so when you have this kind of complex situation, you see the massive mess we have these days,” she stated.
Ezekwesili stressed that rebuilding democracy requires placing citizens back at the center of governance. She added that freedom and citizen participation are critical for innovation, accountability, and societal advancement, noting that global stakeholders are now exploring ways to restore these values.