Call for Democracy that Ensures Security and Prosperity

During the 18th Wole Soyinka Centre Media Lecture held in Lagos, Funmi Ogundar, former Vice Chancellor of Federal University Kashere, called for a democracy in Nigeria that delivers security and economic prosperity. She stated that democracy should extend beyond electoral processes to improve citizens' lives, emphasizing the need for social justice and accountable governance.

Ogundar referenced a nationwide survey conducted ahead of the 2015 general elections, which identified security as the foremost concern among Nigerians, followed by economic issues, corruption, and infrastructure. Umar Pate, a professor at Bayero University Kano, noted that while there is overwhelming support for democracy, public satisfaction with its functioning remains low.

He pointed out that two-thirds of Africans prefer democracy, yet many young Africans consider emigration due to corruption and limited opportunities. The discussion highlighted the challenges of misinformation, social tension, and the need for stronger institutions to address the root causes of insecurity and economic hardship in Nigeria.