Yiaga Africa has directed the government to renegotiate a new social contract with Nigerians in view of the country’s institutions receiving less trust throughout the last 25 years of democracy.
The civil society organization stated in its statement for Democracy Day on yesterday that renegotiating the social compact can emphasize shared values and responsibilities, promoting community and solidarity among citizens, and create a more inclusive society with equal opportunities and access to resources.
Samson Itodo, the executive director of Yiaga Africa, who also signed the statement, offered particular respect to our mothers and ancestors who spearheaded the democratic movement, pointing out that their bravery and defiance of authoritarian authority cleared the path for democracy to be established.
“Trust in government and institutions has declined over the past 25 years,” Itodo stated in reference to the necessity of establishing a new social compact with citizens. By increasing transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to the needs of the people, a new social contract can contribute to the restoration of this trust.
“Renegotiating the social contract can lead to the creation of a more equitable society where everyone has access to resources and equal opportunities.
Additionally, it can highlight shared obligations and beliefs, encouraging a sense of community and solidarity among residents. Addressing group issues like public health emergencies, security risks, economic downturns, political marginalization, and social cohesiveness requires doing this.
It is evident after 25 years that Nigeria has to create a society that is more robust, just, and equal.
We demand that all parties involved—the government, political parties, civic society, and the commercial sector—negotiate a new social contract with the people as we commemorate this historic achievement.
“The goals of this social agreement should be to: Protect the right to vote and respect choices made through the voting booth; Enhance socioeconomic circumstances through wealth redistribution, job development, and food security.
He said, “Develop public accountability and ensure consequences for breaches of public trust; Protect human rights and civil liberties, especially press freedom, freedom of expression, and the right to peaceful assembly; Strengthen local governance by delegating powers to local governments, promoting local democracy, and enabling citizen participation.”
The executive director stated that in order to move forward, democratic institutions—such as INEC, the court system, and anti-corruption organizations—need to be strengthened in their independence and ability to function impartially.
Additionally, he advocated for the advancement of political education, which will strengthen political education and provide citizens with the information and abilities needed to actively engage in the democratic process, particularly holding public leaders accountable for the authority they possess on behalf of the people.
“Encouraging dialogue and collaboration: To address shared challenges and build a more inclusive democracy, political actors, civil society, and the private sector are encouraged to engage in dialogue and collaboration.”
He stated, “Protecting human rights: Upholding and protecting all Nigerians’ fundamental human rights, making sure that everyone can freely express their opinions, assemble, and take part in politics without fear of retaliation.”
Despite the attraction of institutional capture, Itodo continued, democracy has improved democratic institutions and allowed for more public participation.
He claimed that regular elections demonstrate Nigeria’s democracy’s resilience in the face of hardships and power shifts.
The speaker acknowledged the crucial role played by a thriving civil society, the media, and engaged citizens in the last 25 years in the consolidation of democracy. However, they bemoaned the prevalence of election malpractices, electoral violence, and intimidation, which continue to be major concerns as they hinder voter turnout and jeopardize the integrity of elections.
He went on, “Public trust in democratic institutions is being undermined by public leaders’ corruption and lack of accountability, which continue to plague Nigeria’s political scene.
“Despite advancements, there is still a lack of representation for women, young people, and people with disabilities in political leadership and decision-making roles. For many Nigerians, the full exercise of their democratic rights is impeded by entrenched socioeconomic disparities.
He claimed that “for speaking truth to power, journalists, civic activists, and citizens face attacks, intimidation, frivolous litigation, and unlawful detention by state forces.”