Ambakederimo at 64: Nigeria’s Democracy at a Crossroads, Urges Stronger Institutions, Political Awareness

From Francis Sadhere, Delta

Foremost Ijaw leader and elder statesman, Joseph Ambakederimo, has said Nigeria’s democracy is at a crossroads, warning that political ignorance, weak institutions, and poor governance continue to undermine the nation’s progress and the welfare of its citizens.

Speaking at his Birthday Breakfast Media Chat Series in commemoration of his 64th birthday in Warri on Friday, August 15, 2025, Ambakederimo — who is also the Convener of the South South Reawakening Group (SSRG) — lamented that the hopes Nigerians had at the dawn of the Fourth Republic in 1999 have largely been unfulfilled.

“The tomorrow has always come because today is the tomorrow we have been waiting for yesterday,” he said, stressing that democratic promises have been met with “excuses upon excuses” instead of tangible improvements in people’s lives.

Ambakederimo identified political ignorance as a major obstacle to good governance, noting that only about 30% of Nigerians can name the three arms of government.

He argued that the issue is not a lack of intelligence or access to information but a lack of incentive for citizens to become well-informed voters.

He also criticised political parties for failing to articulate clear ideologies or policy programmes, saying many Nigerians are left in a “melee” with no coherent vision to rally behind.

While stressing that democracy and welfare are mutually reinforcing, Ambakederimo emphasised that true democracy must prioritise the welfare of citizens through accountability, citizen participation, and the protection of rights. Conversely, he said, robust welfare systems can strengthen democracy by reducing inequality, fostering social cohesion, and increasing political participation.

Drawing from global examples such as Scandinavian countries, he noted that nations with strong welfare systems often enjoy high democratic participation and stability.

On governance failures and constitutional debates, the elder statesman dismissed calls for a return to parliamentary rule as a distraction, insisting that Nigeria’s current constitution is “near perfect” but poorly implemented by its operators.

He noted that corruption, over-reliance on oil, and weak institutions have hindered democracy’s ability to drive wealth creation in Nigeria.

On the way forward, Ambakederimo called for urgent reforms to strengthen institutions, diversify the economy, invest in human capital, combat corruption, and ensure inclusive growth.

“By addressing these issues, Nigeria can create a more conducive environment for both democracy and wealth creation, leading to a more prosperous and near equitable society,” he said.

The event, attended by journalists and dignitaries, formed part of a reflective series marking Ambakederimo’s 64th birthday, with the theme Democracy at the Cross Road: The Leadership Question and the People’s Welfare.