Obasanjo Seeks Review of Western Democracy in Africa

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged African countries to develop a democratic model that reflects their history, culture and developmental realities rather than relying solely on the Western liberal system.
Obasanjo made the call on Tuesday in Bauchi at the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) Democracy Dialogue.
It was themed: “Beyond Elections: Can Political Parties and the Judiciary Alone Save African Democracy?”
He said the democratic model adopted by African countries lacked sufficient African context and often failed to meet the needs of the continent.
“The democracy we practise has no African context. If you try to use what is not meant for you to serve your purpose, it’s like a dress for which you are not measured,” he said.
Obasanjo also questioned the growing role of the judiciary in determining electoral outcomes, saying it could undermine the mandate expressed by voters.
He wondered why the votes of millions of citizens could be overturned or upheld by a small number of judges through electoral litigation.
He also faulted the concept of “loyal opposition” associated with Western democracy, saying the term was poorly understood in many African societies where political opposition was often treated as enmity.
The former president called on African scholars, policymakers and political leaders to develop an inclusive, Afro-centric democratic model that prioritised good governance, equity, public welfare and community representation.
Earlier, former Vice-President Namadi Sambo called for collective commitment to democracy as a means of promoting justice, inclusion, development and dignity.
Sambo said democracy in Africa faced challenges including electoral disputes, political intolerance, weak institutions, corruption, youth unemployment and declining public confidence in governance.
He, however, said the challenges should encourage African countries to improve democratic practice rather than abandon the system.
He called for stronger institutions capable of delivering credible elections, protecting citizens’ rights and ensuring accountable governance.
Sambo also urged political parties to strengthen internal democracy, transparency and accountability, while becoming more focused on policies and programmes that address citizens’ concerns.
He said the selection of candidates should be credible and inclusive, with party members given meaningful opportunities to participate in decision-making.
The former vice-president also urged political parties to move away from personality-driven politics and promote peaceful competition based on ideas and policies.
He said political opponents should not be treated as enemies, adding that democratic differences should be resolved through dialogue and constitutional processes.
Sambo urged political leaders to protect democratic institutions by accepting electoral victories with humility and defeats with dignity, while using lawful channels to challenge disputed outcomes.
He also said the judiciary was a critical pillar of democratic governance, stressing that an independent and impartial judiciary was essential for resolving disputes and protecting citizens’ rights.
According to him, judges must be able to perform their duties without political interference, intimidation or undue pressure.
He, however, said the judiciary must maintain high standards of integrity, professionalism and accountability to sustain public confidence.
Sambo stressed the need for timely resolution of cases, especially electoral disputes, saying delayed justice could undermine confidence in democratic institutions.
He also called for greater participation of young people and women in political processes, noting their significant population across Africa.