In a strong reaffirmation of Nigeria’s democratic journey, former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), has publicly declared that military rule must never return to Nigeria, regardless of the perceived imperfections in democratic governance.
Speaking at a public lecture in Abuja over the weekend, the elder statesman emphasized that democracy, while not perfect, remains the best form of government for Nigeria. He cautioned against any nostalgia for military intervention in politics, stating that the primary duty of the military is to protect the nation’s sovereignty — not govern it.
“We have tried military rule before, and we all saw the consequences. The military should never be in government again. Their role is in national defense and not political leadership,” Gowon stated, as reported by The Guardian Nigeria.
A Voice from the Past, Echoing into the Future
General Gowon led Nigeria from 1966 to 1975 during one of the most turbulent periods in the country’s history — a time that included the Biafran Civil War (1967–1970). While his rule as a military head of state was marked by both war and post-war reconstruction, he has since become a vocal advocate of democratic stability.
His recent comments come amid growing frustration with governance, rising insecurity, and economic hardship, which some critics believe could tempt calls for alternative leadership models. However, Gowon warned against such dangerous sentiments.
“We have paid a price for military interventions. It delayed our democratic growth and created a power culture that weakened institutions,” he remarked.
Democracy Isn’t Perfect, But It’s Necessary
Gowon’s comments resonate at a time when public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions is waning. According to a 2024 survey by the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), only 38% of Nigerians expressed confidence in the electoral process, while corruption, insecurity, and poor service delivery remain common complaints.
However, democracy’s strength lies not in perfection but in its openness to reform, accountability, and citizen participation—something military regimes historically lacked.
“Democracy gives people a voice. It’s through democratic processes that we can correct the wrongs, not through force or coups,” said Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, former Minister of External Affairs, supporting Gowon’s position.
Africa’s Troubling Trend of Coups
Gowon’s warning also reflects a larger African context. Over the past five years, West Africa has seen a resurgence of military coups, with countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger falling under military juntas. These events have disrupted regional stability and prompted widespread condemnation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU).
Nigeria, being the largest democracy in Africa, is expected to lead by example. Any shift toward military rule could have far-reaching consequences not only domestically but across the continent.
Strengthening Democracy through National Unity
Gowon concluded his address by urging Nigerian leaders to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law, and deliver on their promises to prevent the erosion of public trust.
He also called on citizens, particularly the youth, to be actively involved in governance rather than becoming disillusioned. “The younger generation must learn from the past and protect the future,” Gowon said.
Final Thoughts: Democracy is Worth Defending
As Nigeria navigates its complex socio-political landscape, Gowon’s words serve as a timely reminder of the dangers of authoritarianism. While democracy in Nigeria is imperfect, the path to progress lies not in military might but in collective civic action, leadership accountability, and robust institutions.
The choice is not between flawed democracy and efficient dictatorship — it’s between freedom and oppression, progress and regression.
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Last Updated on May 15, 2025 by kingstar
