Former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has stressed the importance of respecting the will of the people as a fundamental pillar of democracy.

Speaking as the keynote speaker at Nigeria's National Conference on Strengthening Democracy on Monday, January 27, Dr Bawumia lamented the "increasing fragility" of democracy in parts of Africa.

He cited the occurrence of eight coup d’états in Africa between 2020 and 2023 and constitutional changes by some leaders to extend their terms as major concerns.

"In democratic countries, the will of the people is expressed through elections, and leaders, especially incumbents, must trust the electoral process and accept the will of the people for the survival of democracy," he stated.

Institutions

Dr Bawumia highlighted the need to strengthen institutions such as election management bodies, the judiciary and law enforcement agencies to ensure a flourishing democracy.

"One of the most important determinants of a flourishing democracy is the quality of institutions; institutions capable of guaranteeing rights, including property rights, and checking wanton abuse of power," he noted.

He urged citizens to play their part by holding leaders accountable in a responsible manner, devoid of misinformation, fake news and partisan narratives.

"Strengthening democracy is not an event. It will require sustained efforts collectively applied to multiple sectors, institutions and structures.

Citizens need to bring relevant facts and ideas to the forefront of national discourse," he said.

Dr Bawumia concluded by affirming that, despite its imperfections, democracy remained the best form of governance to guarantee individual liberties.

Quoting Winston Churchill, he added: “Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others.”