Democracy at Crossroads: African Leaders Must Deliver Social Justice to Prevent Authoritarian Relapse
Presidential aspirant Dr. Gbenga-Hashim has issued a stark warning about the future of African democracy, emphasizing that social welfare and economic justice must become cornerstones of governance to prevent a return to authoritarian rule.
During his address at the National Conference on the Future of Democracy in Nigeria, hosted by the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA) in Abuja on Wednesday, Gbenga-Hashim emphasized that democratic success requires more than just electoral processes.
The presidential hopeful highlighted the concerning economic decline under the current administration, pointing to Nigeria’s GDP drop from $574 billion in 2014 to $259 billion under APC leadership. This dramatic decrease reflects deepening poverty across the nation and threatens democratic stability.
Drawing parallels with post-World War I Europe, Gbenga-Hashim illustrated how economic hardship and social division led to the rise of dictators like Mussolini, Hitler, and Franco. He cautioned that African democracies could face similar risks if they fail to address basic citizen needs.
“When democracy ceases to offer opportunity or hope, despair breeds nostalgia for authoritarianism,” Gbenga-Hashim warned, echoing a former Head of State’s observation that “people will not eat democracy.”
The presidential aspirant emphasized that while institutional reform is important, the character of leadership is paramount. He cited Nigeria’s historical reputation for judicial integrity, noting how other African nations once sought Nigerian judges for their commitment to justice, even during military rule.
Gbenga-Hashim particularly commended Professor Humphrey Nwosu, former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission, for his principled stance during the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election. “Without Nwosu’s values, there would be no June 12 to remember,” he stated, highlighting how individual integrity can shape national destiny.
Looking ahead to 2027, Gbenga-Hashim called for a renewed focus on democratic performance and accountability. “Our democracy must deliver, must make sense, and must endure,” he concluded, emphasizing the need to make democracy meaningful for all citizens.
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