In the annals of democracy, the principle of separation of powers stands as a cornerstone, designed to ensure that the three arms of government—executive, legislative, and judiciary—operate independently to maintain a system of checks and balances. However, in Nigeria, this vital framework has been severely compromised. What was once a robust democracy has increasingly devolved into an executive-dominated state, with the judiciary and legislature reduced to mere extensions of the executive branch.
The erosion of the judiciary’s independence is particularly concerning. Once a bastion of justice, the judiciary now often finds itself bending to the whims of the executive. Political pressures, intimidation, and a lack of resources have rendered many judges reluctant to challenge executive overreach. This complicity undermines the rule of law, making the judiciary a willing tool in the hands of an executive that operates with increasing impunity.
Similarly, the legislature, which should serve as the voice of the people and a counterbalance to executive power, has become an echo chamber for the ruling party. Many legislators prioritize loyalty to the executive over their constitutional duties, enabling a governance model where laws and policies are pushed through without proper scrutiny or debate. This has led to a legislative body that acts more like an errand boy, rubber-stamping decisions rather than critically engaging with the issues that affect the populace.
The implications of this shift are dire. Without a strong and independent judiciary, citizens have little recourse to challenge abuses of power or seek justice. When the legislature fails to perform its oversight function, accountability diminishes, allowing corruption and malfeasance to flourish unchecked. The Nigerian people, who look to these institutions for protection and representation, are left disillusioned and disenfranchised.
This alarming trend highlights a critical need for civic engagement and reform. Citizens must demand a return to a truly independent judiciary and a robust legislature that acts in the best interests of the nation. Civil society organizations, legal professionals, and engaged citizens must unite to advocate for the restoration of these institutions’ integrity and independence.
Nigeria’s future depends on a reinvigorated commitment to the principles of democracy and the rule of law. It is imperative that the judiciary and legislature reclaim their roles as bastions of democracy rather than puppets of the executive. Only then can Nigeria hope to realize its potential as a vibrant and equitable democracy, truly representative of its people’s will.
