Former Education Minister, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has cried out over what she described as the capture of democracy by powerful interests.
She cautioned that citizens have become marginalized in the democratic process.
Ezekwesili made the observation when she appeared on Arise Television’s news programme on Thursday.
She said democracy is no longer functioning effectively because it has been corrupted over time, leaving citizens powerless and disengaged.
“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 has created room for state capture, while institutions meant to regulate the process have also been compromised.
She pointed to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and the judiciary as examples of institutions 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 added that stakeholders globally are now exploring ways to place citizens back at the center of governance, noting that freedom and citizen participation are essential for innovation and societal advancement.
