

































 

 

IMPERATIVES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE AND DEMOCRATIC RULE IN THE NIGERIAN FOURTH 

REPUBLIC. 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 35

MUSTAPHA AYODELE HARUNA, Ph.D.

Department of Social Sciences,

  Rufus Giwa Polytechnics,

  Owo, Ondo State,Nigeria.

Akinrolabu Dare Raphael

Department of Public Administration,

Rufus Giwa Polytechnic,

Owo Ondo State.

INTRODUCTION

  Contemporary  ideas  of  democratic  rule  were  designed  majorly  by  nations  and 

institutions across the world which aim to define the limits of public power and the relationship 

between the rulers and the ruled (Kuna, 2005:26). The task of consolidating democratic rule is 

deepening,  and  sustaining  it  against  the  flow  of  instability  in  Nigeria  requires  change  or 

restructuring of both democratic institutions and attitudinal behaviours (Umar, 2002:120). The 

general acceptance of democracy (democratic rule) as the preferred form of good governance 

is incontestable. This is based on the participatory advantage democracy affords the people in 

the selection and election of their leaders and representatives. They guaranteed some recipes 

for  good  governance  and  the  fundamental  human  rights  of  all  abiding  citizens  (Oke,  2010:32)

Though  democracy  has  a  long  tradition,  the  notions  regarding  its  essence  and  grounds  of  its 

justification  have  been  revised  over  time.  Nevertheless,  Bryce  (1921)  cited  in  Gauba  (2003)

finds  the  justification  for  democracy  in  the  concept  of  relativity,  by  comparing  its  advantages 

and disadvantages with other forms of government, which is the welfare of the people (Gauba,

2003:423).

Corresponding email:dareakin2014@gmail.com



 

 

In Nigeria, sustaining the gains of development through consistent democratic rule and 

good governance remain huge challenges that have brought the nation into a coma ( Ozohu – 

Sulaiman, 2016:81). The contradictions which have arisen from the democratic transition and 

the stages of democratization have brought about much inquiry of the importance in the 

existing models and institutions of democracy to the reality of contemporary African socio-

political developments (Jega, 2005:2).  

According to Ozohu – Sulaiman (2016) that: 

The third wave of democratization of the late 1980s has ignited an 

irreversibleprocess of profound social transformation in Africa. 

Hitherto, described as a continent of mindless and despotic 

political leadership, the current socio-political realities of Africa 

suggest that authoritarian rule can no longer be tolerated (Ozohu – 

Sulaiman, 2016:80) 

Democracy (democratic rule) means a representative form of government with a 

participatory decision–making system (being collective), accountability, transparency, and the 

guarantee of human and civil rights entrenchment if observed adequately. It is a consensual 

system as its legitimacy emerges from an acceptance of the fairness and transparency of its 

processes for elections into democratic institutions and the policy-making circle (Agagu, 

2011:74) The issue of democracy and its institutions as indicators of good governance and 

development in any nation are so vital and makes for continuous reform in the electoral system 

in any country very imperative (Gberevbie, 2014:148). 

Imperatives for good governance and democratic rule are incentives by which 

democracy becomes more broadly and profoundly legitimize before the people and they 

however are likely to break down or collapse its structures. They normalize the expansion of 

citizens’ access, development of democratic citizenship culture, broadening of leadership 

entries, training, and other civil society functions (Ojo, 2006:8). Nigeria runs a democratic 

system of government that is expected to promote all democratic values including fiscal 

discipline, due process, freedom for mass media, civil societies amongst others (Odo, 2015:7).  

According to Umar (2009): 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 36



 

 

Democratic consolidation (rule) is not just about how democratic 

institutions, structures, and procedures are established and 

nurtured. It is as well and perhaps, more importantly, about how 

these democratic values and processes get embedded in the 

psyche of individuals or groups in society (Umar, 2009: 18; Umar, 

2009:19) 

In 2004, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution that, figures out the 

essential elements of democracy, which include: 

 Separation and balance of powers; 

 Independence of the judiciary; 

 A pluralistic system of political parties and organizations; 

 Respect for the rule of law 

 Accountability and transparency 

 Free, independent, and pluralistic media 

 Respect for human and political rights (Meyer – Resende, 2007:2) 

Democracy can therefore not be attained without a system of democratic rule which divides 

power among three co-equal branches, each with certain prerogatives of power, and where the 

functions of the courts are to channel power–related conflicts through legal processes which 

use agreed legal reasoning to interpret and apply pre-existing law (Bassiouni, 1998:4) 

CONCEPTUALISING GOOD GOVERNANCE AND DEMOCRATIC RULE. 

There are enormous pieces of literature on the concepts of Good governance and 

democratic rule offered by theorists, writers policymakers, and analysts of both concepts to 

their understanding. To Ogundiya (2010), Good governance can be analyzed as the process that 

is employed to achieve the noble end of the state. This simply means the art of governing a 

people within a given territory or a state. It consists of two essential elements of the state and 

the procedures of the legislative, judicial, and executive and administrative bodies at all the 

tiers of government (Ogundiya, 2010:203). 

In a similar view, Arowolo & Aluko (2012) noted that: 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 37



 

 

Good governance includes the capacity to formulate and 

implement sound policies and the respect of citizens and the state 

for the institutions that govern economic and social interaction. It 

has been closely linked to the extent to which a government is 

perceived and accepted as legitimate, committed to improving 

the public welfare and responsive to the needs of its citizens, 

competent to assure law and order and deliver public services, 

able to create an enabling policy environment for productive 

activities and equitable in its conducts (Arowolo & Aluko, 

2012:798) 

Corresponding to the above assertions, Asobie (2012) noted that:  

Government is the process of organizing and mobilizing people and 

resources to achieve a common goal. It is the process of motivating 

and enrolling people to participate actively in dreaming dreams and 

seeing the vision of a people's future and then encouraging them to 

own the vision and use their energies, resources, and contacts to 

work cooperatively together to realise the visions, dreams, and 

possibilities… There is good governance that embodies certain 

standard principles; transparency, accountability, civic participation, 

achievement of results, and impact (Asobie, 2012:7) 

Ladan (2002) noted that good governance is the responsible use of political authority to 

manage a nation’s affairs (Ladan, 2002): 141) while Saliu (2012) noted that governance is 

perceived to be a series of public activities which means the making of choices in the public 

interest for the betterment of a nation. It has to do with democratic institutions or structures 

mandatory on decisions, participation, coordination, and the service delivery of efficient needs 

of the people (Saliu, 2012:115). It refers to the process of decision-making and the methods 

whereby decisions are implemented with the following characteristics: 

 Participating – encouraging wide citizens' participation in the decision-making process; 

 Consensus–oriented –attempting to get decisions based on general agreement;  

 Transparent – being open to criticism/questions in decision-making processes;  

 Responsive –listening and responding to the demands of its people;  

 Effective and efficient –providing social services; and  

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 38



 

 

 Equitable and inclusive –not excluding any sectors of the population, most importantly 

the vulnerable and challenged ones. (Pawley & Anderlini, 2004:36)  

To Adetoye & Omilusi, (2016), Good governance is the process whereby public 

institutions perform general affairs in public dimensions and oversee publicresources, and 

safeguards the entrenchment of human right in the domain of the rule of law (Adetoye & 

Omilusi, 2016:574) while Omotoso views it as the use of Political Powers to manage a nation’s 

public affairs and to shape its economic and process in line with the public interest (Omotosho 

2010:146)Democratic rule is the practice whereby the ideas of democratic principles are 

entrenched in manifestation and implementation through people-centered apparatus. They are 

all based on the wills of the people as they are best suitable for permitting people to have 

access to governance, freedom, participation, and choice (Asaju, 2014:1). To Abdullahi (2014), 

democratic rule is a process to the institutionalization of democracy for the attainment of 

political and economic development of the country as from transforming an authoritarian 

system into a democratic type especially in the exercise of civilian administration (Abdullahi, 

2014:17). According to Ozohu-Sulaiman (2016) that: 

…in democratizing societies, the conceptual vehicle that connects 

the elements of social change is democratic rule and practices 

which the political leadership must spread across the institutional 

landscape of governance. Democratic (rule) governance would 

mean building institutions and rule that are not just efficient but 

also fair, and that are developed through political voice. Foremost 

among these institutions are: an independentbut dependable 

electoral system to superintend democratic transition, and the 

institutionalization of an enduring legislative system to provide 

the legal framework for democratic good governance capacity 

building and institutional renewal referring to the comprehensive 

reform of the public service to provide the required institutional 

support for democratic (rule)… (Ozohu – Suleiman, 2016:81) 

Lawal & Olukayode (2012) noted that democratic rule entails the presence of civilian 

authorities where political actors and democratic institutions are sustained views of regular 

elections, freedom of speech, the entrenchment and observance of the rule of law (Lawal & 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 39



 

 

Olukayode, 2012: 449), while Okoroafor (2010) viewed the democratic rule as the type that is 

rooted in the consent of the citizens in the belief that people have the right to choose and run 

their government. It connotes rules regarding principles of open, free, and fair elections, the 

acceptance of majority decisions while respecting minority’s rights as guaranteed by their 

constitutions (Okoroafor, 2010:174; Okeke, 2014: 232) Democratic rule is the actual exercise of 

the principles of democracy, its elements and subsidiaries which are needed towards achieving 

the goal of democratic ideas (Adejumobi & Kehinde, 2007:98) 

IMPORTANCE OF GOOD GOVERNANCE 

I. Efficient processes – due to their routine repeats in the process and consistency of 

tasks, it has brought huge attachment to its relevance to the public sector. 

II. Visibility of errors – the routines of events and the consistency as it quickens and 

highlights nonconformities in the process. 

III. Reduction in costs – It eliminates wastages from scrap, rework, and other non-value-

added processes. 

IV. Smooth running process  

V. Financial sustainability 

VI. Clarity 

VII. Reputation 

VIII. Culture (Parker, 2017:2) 

Rule of law, institutional and democracy dimension – the rule of law principles are 

IX. Properness and human rights, the democracy-related principle is transparency and 

participation and the modern value-related principles are effectiveness and 

accountability (Addink, 2017:3). 

ELEMENTS OF DEMOCRATIC RULE. 

I. Choice of people – It allows citizens to choose their representatives through periodic 

elections. The free choice in picking observed from time to time – The popular 

sovereignty. 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 40



 

 

II. Participation of people – They engaged in public affairs, jobs, and politics as the bases 

for democratic rule where preference is usually given to collective rule and participation 

either through representative or direct democracy. 

III. Fundamental Human Rights– Democratic rule is a basic ingredient for the observance of 

human dignity and the preservation of human honours. Rights that are inviolable and 

inseparable should not be suspended. The rights are incorporated in the supreme law of 

the state. The liberalism of freedom, equality, and dignity of the individual. 

IV. Rule of law – It refers to the strict adherence to the fundamental workings of the law as 

stipulated in the constitution. The use of constitutions to limit government by law. 

V. The organs of Government – Their strict adherence to the principles of separation of 

powers among the legislature, executive, and judiciary in the discharge of their 

constitutional roles in the democratic rule as contained in any federal system of 

government like Nigeria (Democracy nd :1; Nowak, nd : 3) 

VI. Civil society organization in the strengthening of elements of democratic rule as a new 

approach. The inclusion of civil societies as another sphere of politics is highly relevant 

and essential for proving knowledge of democratic performance (Castano, 2010:3) 

VII. Democratic political institutions – These are institutions designed to ensure the 

legitimate or popular authorization of public officials, their steady accountability, and 

responsiveness to the people. This is usually achieved through regular competitive 

elections and public opinion (Beetham, 1998: 24) 

VIII. The emergence of national democratic conscience that is opposed to anti-democratic 

nationalism in the area of identity politics and minority political rights of decisions 

(Touraine, 1998:93; Halperin, 1993:527) 

IX. Investigative Agencies – They must inspire great confidence on the view of the people to 

instill confidence, quality manpower and the absence of taint in the investigations 

apparatus. As they should not be tools in the hands of the Government in power against 

her opposition outside power. 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 41



 

 

X. Spineless bureaucracy committed to their own advancement and impartiality, and focus 

on a robust based economy of merit, arms–length lending capacities to economic 

freedom (Sibal, 2017:3) 

XI. Political Tolerance – Democratic societies are politically tolerant of democratic rule. As 

such, majority and minority existence must be upheld to safeguard their identities, 

cultures, and political expressions (Meher, nd:1) 

XII. Sustainable Electoral System – It affects the number of political organisations and 

parties in the democratic country. The more electoral space, the more it accommodates 

more representations and many political parties emerge (Khalil – Zadeh, 2016:3). 

Pluralism which democratic rule values finds expression in elections as an ingredient of 

popular choice (Agbu, 2016:4) 

XIII. Media Pluralism – It guarantees the citizens’ fundamental rights to freedom of 

expression and information. Media freedom is a veritable tool in any democratic rule 

(European Federation of Journalists, 2017:2) 

XIV. Consensus building and social inclusion. They require wide consultations among all 

stakeholders. The system must cater to all citizens to improve their general well-being 

(Cunningham, 1987:96) 

NEXUS BETWEEN GOOD GOVERNANCE AND DEMOCRATIC RULE (SYMMETRICAL 

RELATIONSHIP) 

The arguments center on theconnection between Good governance and democratic rule 

which represent the availability and sustainability of social structures like participation, 

responsibility transparency, accountability, effective and efficient social services, equitability, 

and efficient social services, equitability and all-inclusive sectors side of good governance and 

the provisions of all elements of democratic rule like rule of law, civil society engagement, the 

fundamental human rights, political pluralism, periodic elections, people’s choices democratic 

institutions, political tolerance minority and voting rights, separation of power and sustainable 

electoral reform/systemon the other hand. It stands as the synergy between the state and the 

wish of the people. To Agara & Okonkwo (2019), this nexus representsaffirmation that 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 42



 

 

democratic consolidation breeds citizens’ participation, public trust, and confidence which 

resultsinthe political, social, and economic development of the political system (Agara & 

Okonkwo, 2019:3) As such, there is a strong correlation and affinity between good governance 

and democratic rule. 

 

According toLissac (nd) that;  

A peacefuland productive society is based on effective state 

institutions. Good governance in this sense means effective and 

efficient structures which provide optimal support to citizens in 

leading a safe and productive life in line with their desires and 

opportunities. Essentially, this involves a combination of 

democracy, the social welfare state, and the rule of law. The 

promotion of good governance goes beyond the government 

sector and includes all irrelevant actors from the private sector 

and society. The aim is to balance interests and focus on common 

goals, particularly reducing poverty and providing access to state 

services for all to make administrative structures participative, 

effective, and solution-oriented (Lissac, nd: 2). 

Udeh (2017) noted that good governance thrives better where there are democratic 

rulesand no exceptions.The success of democratic rule is contingent on strong democratic 

institutions that produce good governance in any system, especially in Nigeria (Udeh, 

2017:148). The conditions for good governance depend on the availability and consolidation of 

democratic attributes/elements, it entails the respect and protection of fundamental human 

rights, abiding by the rule of law, running an inclusive governmentof transparent effective, and 

efficient service delivery with periodic accountability process or platform before the people 

(Gberevbie, 2014:137).  

The development of effective democratic and public sector institutions are two-

dimensional components of any politics. It is through an improved level of good governance 

that the benefits of democratic rule can have direct impacts on the lives of citizens. In a growing 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 43



 

 

world, democratic rule should become more innovative in adapting to new technology and 

evolving citizens' aspirations and expectations (NDI, nd:1) since accountability cannot 

beenforced without transparency and the rule of law, accountability is a key instrument of good 

governance for democratic rule, to the private sector and civil society organisations, as the 

society’s well-being rests on ensuring that every citizenfeels that they have a stake in the 

common project. Institutional building and the promotion of good governance demand 

simultaneous commitment to democratic rule (Sharma, 2007:33; Adeosun, 2012:6) To 

Ogunniya (2010) good governance forms the philosophical foundation upon which democratic 

rule and its elements are rested. Democratic rule dictates who constitutes the legitimacy from 

the people and wields power in the state and how they are to exercise such while good 

governance views or upholds harmony with public good as a democratic rule is subject to moral 

judgments and moral questioning on public interest (Ogunniya 2010:205; Omotosho, 2008:6) 

The presence of good governance depends on the suitability and workability of democratic rule 

in a country.  

EVOLUTION OF DEMOCRATIC RULE IN THE NIGERIAN FOURTH REPUBLIC 

Notwithstanding the focus and emphasis of this study which is on the fourth republic of Nigeria 

concerning imperatives of good governance and democratic rule, it is also appropriate to x-ray 

the historical political system of Nigeria in the first republic (1960-1966), second republic (1979-

1983) and the third abortive republic (1991-1998). Nigeria had one form of political system to 

another other over the decades (Parliamentary/cabinet and presidential systems of 

government) in our political journey. Various political parties emerged in those republics with 

ethnic and tribal colouration or sentiments. The collapse of those democratic rules could mainly 

be traceable to the incursion of the military into power as it was the emergent trend in the 

1960s – Late 1990s in Latin America, Asia, Middle-Eastand Africa due to the contagious effects 

of military adventurism then with short or few years of democratic rule but longer years or 

reign of interrupted military regimes during those periods. The fourth republic has been an 

exception due to many factors that have kept the military from governance from 1999 to date. 

The enduring democracy with good governance has metamorphosed into sustainable 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 44



 

 

democracy through its dividends to the people through the key implementation of sustainable 

development goals, ingredients of good governance, and the observance of elements of 

democratic rule, the democracy has now been consolidated, however, with some challenges 

inherent in social and political change and civilization for human and state developments. 

Aluaigba(2009) noted that the demise of the first, second, and third abortiverepublicswas 

majorly due to substantial attempts by the political class to prevent their opponents from 

meaningful political participation on one side, and the refusal of the military to give Nigerian a 

model of freedom of choice of government, democratic taste and consolidation of the existing 

civilian government to survive and grow (Aluaigba, 2009:56)  

DEMOCRATIC RULE IN THE NIGERIAN FOURTH REPUBLIC  

According to Nyewusira & Nweke (2012) that;  

In appraising democratization in Nigeria, it is imperative to 

examine the structural conditions catalyzing or limiting the 

phenomenon. It is an incontrovertible fact that the military played 

the role of architects and building blocks of the Fourth Republic. 

The Military government of General Abdulsalami Abubakar 

promulgated Decree No. 24, 1999 known as the 1999 

Constitution. This decree was published less than one month after 

the inauguration of the civilian government on 29th May. The 

implication was that the transition from military to civil rule was 

not based on any democratic constitution (Nyewusira & Nweke, 

2012:4. 

The above quote implies that the military midwived democracy reluctantly and dio it in 

a militarized manner. The fourth democratic rule culminated in the nation’s political landscape 

which started amidst expectations and hope. It has witnessed six (6) general elections: 1999, 

2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2019) with many mixed feelings, and marked with controversies 

related to electoral violence, political instability,etc. (Yagboyaju, 2011:93) It is generally 

expected that such elections to enhance good governance with the ultimate goal of ensuring 

the legitimacy of the people and the welfare of Nigerians (Agbu, 2016:6). Despite the stability in 

the nation and the system, the citizens, are working under severe stains and stresses to 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 45



 

 

adequately and effectively democratize good governance and political participation but being 

dissected by greed, godfatherism corruption electoral malpractices and other variables 

(Omotoso & Kehinde, 2016:14) 

Elections play vital roles in deepening democratic rule as they enable the governed to 

decide who governs them. Credible elections remain a critical indicator of democratic 

consolidation, peaceful power change and the rule engagement of a multi-party system are all 

hallmarks in the fourth republic (Osaghe, & Adamu, nd:50). 

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK 

The study adopted a pluralist theory of democracy as its theoretical framework. The theory 

believes in the system of political participation of citizens and parties. It recognizes the 

existence of varied interests of the people and their groups formed for the sake of protesting 

and promoting their interests as all groups are allowed to take part in the political process. It is 

a theory in which political power is fragmented among the branches of government, sharing 

powers between states and a multitude of private and individuals. It ensures more politicization 

of the people in all spheresand more politicization of the people in all spheres of life under 

mass participation in political decisions (Jahari, 2009:392). It represents a social system that 

provides for the co-existence of a variety of social customs, cultural traits, and others as they 

participate in the political process under uniform democratic institutions. Attempts to maintain 

stability and peace in conflict-ridden societies as it emphasizes power, interests of state, 

leadership, and political culture (Gauba, 2003: 265; Cunningham, 2002:82) Proponents writers, 

and theorists of the theory include James Madison, Robert Dahl, Charles Lindblom, David 

Truman, Seymour Martins Lepset, Arthur Betley, James Burnham, H. d. Lasswell, Harry Eckstein, 

S.T. Beer, Myron Weiner, Earl Ltham, and others.  They agreed in their philosophical thoughts 

that in the political system, policies are made by mutual consultation and exchange of opinions 

between variousgroups. The sovereign power of the state should be distributed in a way that 

the various constituent groups have a share in it.  

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 46



 

 

The linkage of the theory to the study lies in the fact that good governance and its output are to 

be derived from the democratic rule where pluralism variations in interests and 

multidimensional decisions can flourish and hold sway. That is, citizens have varied interests in 

the state project. The theory however suffers some defects like: 

i. It undermines the sovereign position of the state by laying much emphasis on social 

groups, as it ignores the importance of statehood.  

ii. Despite the theory being masses oriented, the elites still have their ways as political 

leaders and stakeholders in the scheme of things.  

iii. Critics point out that the pluralist theory of democracy only focuses on the decision-

making process. It overlooks those issues on which no decision could be taken though 

might be crucial.  

iv. It doesn’t guarantee internal democracy amongst the various interest or social groups.  

IMPERATIVES OF GOOD GOVERNANCE AND DEMOCRATIC RULE 

 Genuine democracy should be divided and consolidated across the politicalbased on the 

rule of law and citizens oriented electoral system.  

 Issue-based governance where the attributes and characteristics of it are entrenched- 

accountability and transparency.  

 Focused leadership – Political leadership of the political system should ensure dividends 

of democracy are delivered to the people in terms of the provision of social 

infrastructures with visionary value.  

 Proper utilisation of human and natural resources for the good of all should be 

advocated by all well-meaning citizens throughfar-reaching economic policies drive. 

 Government providing enabling polities environment for credible elections to earn a 

national and international image of good reputation.  

 Imperative that promotes constitutionalism.  

 Imperative for sustainable development that will enhance socio, political and economic 

investment.  

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 47



 

 

 Imperative of the cooperation of arms of government in a democratic dispensation. It is 

to be focused on collaborative efforts within their constitutional responsibilities to 

formulate and implement effective governance laws and policies.  

 Tackling corruption as it remains a big stumbling block to good governance and 

democratic ride. From party finance, and vote buying to political corruption of the 

electoral system need to be tackled appropriately.  

 Tackling poverty remains a serious problem for any system. It affects one fundamental 

human right as one’s vote is being bought over on account of what to eat, and drink” by 

desperate politicians and political parties.  

 Availability and sustenance of basic democratic institutions, the tendencies in 

institutions building and strengthening internal democracy 

 Reconstituting and reforming the military. There was a clear consensus that if the 

constitution is not to live under constant threat then, the capacity of the military to 

seize power at will had to be removed so as not to endanger the early sustenance of 

democracy. The military must learn how to be structured under democratic rule.  

 Imperative in decentralization and devolution of powers. This will allow the various 

leaders of thoughts, opinions, and interest groups in greater public participation in 

governance and public affair.  

 Imperative of federalism as the best mode of representation based on something more 

than territorial constituencies.  

 Imperative for civil society organisations to play a vital role in democratic purposes and 

consolidation of good governance. They are to havea positive impact on governance as 

they will have the capacity to act as watchdogs to ensure that democratic rule is 

effective and serves the needs of the public (Ogunbiyi, 2020:3; kpundeh, 1992:33; 

Mbaku, 2020: Mlambo, Zubane & Mlambo, 2019:5; Rossouw, 2019:2 Osaghae & Adamu, 

nd; 4; Osinbayo, 2018: 11; Kolawole, 2013:131; Omotoso, 2010:146; omoworere, 

2010:6). 

 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 48



 

 

CONCLUSION 

According to Aluaigba (2009) that;  

To say that the institutionalization and sustenance of democracy 

in Nigeria (Fourth Republic) are less significant is to underestimate 

the best pathway to development given the complex political 

terrainin Nigeria as a country exists. The only sure approach to 

overcoming the myriad of obstacles confronting Nigeria’s efforts 

at advancement is to ensure that democracy finds a permanent 

abode in the country (Aluagba, 2009:75). 

The study has been able to establish the efficacy of democratic rule when it utilizes the 

embodiments of good governance by exhibiting accountability, transparency, participation in 

service delivery, rule of law, separation of powers, efficient and effective services, equitable 

and inclusive system, etc. The above rest on sustainability and consolidation of democratic rule 

where it must allow pluralism, the institutionalisation of democratic processes from a multi-

party system, independence of electoral agency, periodicelections, equal participation presence 

of civil society organizations free media political tolerance, to consensus building, and free and 

fair elections with the citizens’ free choice of who governs them at one point in time to the 

other. The sustenance of democratic rule through good governance is one of the pathways to 

democratic consolidation with its imperatives for good governance in the symmetrical order of 

power to the people. 

REFERENCES 

Abdullahi, M. (2014) An overview of Democratic Rule and Democratisation Process in 

Nigeria: 1999-2013. Review of Public Administration and Management, 3(5):176-

186 

Addink, G.H.(2017) Good Governance: Importance in Practice, Theories and Definitions, 

Halu Oleo Law Review, 1(1): 1-32. 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 49



 

 

Adejumobi, S. & Kehinde, M. (2007) Building Democracy without Democrat? Political parties 

and Threat of Democratic Reversal in Nigeria. Journal of African Elections 6(2) 95-

113. 

 Adeosun, A.B(2012) Nigeria@ 50: The Role of Good Governance and Effective Public 

Administration Towards Achieving Fledgling Democracy. International Journal of 

Politics and Good governance, 3(3):1-17 

Adetoye.D, & Omilusi, M.O (2016) The symmetrical Relationship Between Good Governance 

and Development. International journal of Economics. Commerce and 

Management, IV (3):572-581. 

Agagu.A.A (2011) “The Nigerian State, Democracy and Development: A Hope Betrayed?” In 

Agagu A.A & Ola R.F (eds) Development Agenda of the Nigerian State, Akure: Lord 

Kenynes Publishing. 

Agara. T. & Okonkwo. C (2019) Democracy, Good Governance and National Development: A 

critical Examination of the Nexus. Retrieved from 

https://www.researchgate.net/publication>23... Accessed online November 8, 

2020. 

Agbu, O. (2016) “The Nigerian State a Politics in the fourth Republic” in Agbu . O (ed) 

Elections and Governance in Nigeria Fourth Republic, Dakar: Council for the 

Development of Social Science Research Africa. (CODESRIA). 

Akindele, S.T., Adeyemi.O.O. & Aluko O.A (2012) Democracy, Governance, Legislative 

challenges and Impediments in Nigeria, 1999-2011. Journal of Politics and Law 5(2) 

:175-186. 

Aluaigba M.T. (2009) “The strangled Route to Democratic consolidation in Nigeria” in 

Jega.A.M, Wakili, H & Zango I.M (eds) Consolidation of Democracy in Nigeria. 

Challenges and Prospects. Kano: Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Research and 

Training Mambayya House, Bayero University. 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 50

https://www.researchgate.net/publication%3e23


 

 

Arowolo D.E & Aluko, O.A. (2012) Democracy, Political Participation and Good Governance 

in Nigeria. International Journal of Development and Sustainability 1(3):797-809. 

Asaju, K. (2014) Sustaining Democratic Rule in Nigeria: The corruption Tide. Advances in 

Social Sciences Research Journal, 1(2):1-12. 

Asobie, H.A. (2012) “Conceptual, Theoretical and Empirical Issues on the interface between 

corruption, Governance and Development” in Mohamed H., Aluaigba, M.T. & Kabir. 

A(eds) Corruption, Governance and Development in Nigeria: Perspective and 

Remedies, Kano: Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Research and Training 

Mambayya House, Bayero University. 

Bassioun, C. (1998) “Towards A Universe Declaration on the Basic Principles of Democracy: 

from Priciples to Realization” In Inter-Parliamentary Union (ed), Democracy: 

Principle and Achievement, Geneva: The inter-Parliamentary union. 

Beetham, D. (1998) “Democracy: Key Principles institutions and Problems” In Inter-

Parliamentary Union(ed), Democracy: Principles and Achievement, Geneva: The 

inter-parliamentary Union. 

Castano, G.M (2010) citizenship and civil society as key elements for Democratic 

Strengthening: A new Approach to Regional Cooperation between the European 

Union Latin America, Stockholm: international institute for Democracy and 

Electoral Assistance. 

Cunningham, F. (1987) Democratic Theory and Socialism, Cambridge: Cambridge University 

Press 

Cunningham, F. (2002) Theories of Democracy: A critical introduction London: Routledge 

Danladi, A. & Tanko, A (nd) Civil Society and Democratic Governance in Nigeria’s Fourth 

Republic: A Historical Reflection. 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 51



 

 

Democracy (nd) Elements of Democracy with Definition. Retrieved from www.basic-

concept.com/c/elements-of-d... Accessed online November 10, 2020. 

European Federation of Journalists (2017) EP hearing: “Media Pluralism essential element 

for democracy”. Retrieved from europeanjournalists.org>2017/07/137e… 

Accessed online November 10, 2020. 

Gauba, O.P. (2003) An introduction to Political Theory, Delhi: Macmillan India Ltd. Powley. E 

& Anderlini. S.N. (2004) Democracy and Governance, London: The International alert 

etc. Retrieved from http://www.international-

alert.org/sites/default/files/library/TKDemocracyGovernance.pdf Accessed online 

November 7, 2020. 

Gberevbie, D.E (2014) Democracy, Democratic institutions and Good Governance in Nigeria. 

Eastern Africa Social Research Review, xxx (1):133-154 

Halperin, M. (1993) Limited Constitutional Democracy: lessons from the American 

Experience American University International Law Review, 8(2/3):523-529. 

Jega, A.M (2005) “The Evolution for the concept and institutions of Democracy: A 

preliminary survey” in Jega, AM & Wakil, H(eds) The Question of Democracy: Direct 

or Representative, Buk, Kano: centre for Democratic Research and Training, 

Mambayya House. 

Johari, J.C. (2009) Principles of Modern Political Science. New Delhi: Sterling Publishers 

Private Limited. 

Khalil-Zadeh, F. (2016) Political Elections as an Element of Democracy. Journal of Political 

sciences & Public Affairs, 4(4):1-3 

Kolawole, A.K (2013) Good Governance constitutionalism and the Rule of Law: Imperative 

for sustainable Development in Nigeria OIDA International journal of sustainable 

Development, 6(6): 129-142 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 52

http://www.basic-concept.com/c/elements-of-d
http://www.basic-concept.com/c/elements-of-d
http://www.international-alert.org/sites/default/files/library/TKDemocracyGovernance.pdf Accessed online November 7
http://www.international-alert.org/sites/default/files/library/TKDemocracyGovernance.pdf Accessed online November 7
http://www.international-alert.org/sites/default/files/library/TKDemocracyGovernance.pdf Accessed online November 7


 

 

Kpundeh, S.J (ed) (1992) Democratization in Africa: Africa: African views, African voices. 

National Research Council. Washington: National Academy Press. 

Kuna, M.J. (2005) ”Direct and Representative Democracy: Implications for Political 

Participation and Accountability in Nigeria” In Jega A.M. & Wakili, H(eds) The 

Question of Democracy: Direct or Representative? Kano: Centre for Democratic 

Research and Training, Mambayya House, Bayero University. 

Ladan, M.T. (2002) “Good Governance and Human Rights Protection in Nigeria” in Jega, 

A.M, Wakili, H. & Ahmad M. (eds) Democracy and Democratisation Research and 

Training, Mambayya House Bayero University. 

Lawal, T. & Olukayode. O.V. (2012) Democracy and Development in Nigeria International 

Journal of Development and Sustainability 1(2):L448-455. 

Lissac, P. (nd) Government and Democracy. Retrieved form 

https://www://giz.de>ourselves>governance-... Accessed online November 6, 2020. 

Mbaku, J.M. (2020) Good and inclusive governance is imperative for African’s future. 

Retrieved from www.brookings.edu/research/good-a... Accessed November 15, 

2020. 

Meher, P. (nd) Top 12 Vital Elements of Democracy – Explained. Retrieved from 

www.shareyouressays.com>knowledge. Accessed online November 10, 2020. 

Meyer-Resende, M. (2007) international consensus: Essential Elements of International. 

Retrieved from www.concernedhistorians.org>file. Accessed online November 10, 

2020. 

Mlambo, V.H, Zubane, S.P & Mlambo, D.N. (2019) Promoting Good Governance in Africa: 

The role of the civil society as a watching Journal of Public Affairs, 20(1). 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 53

https://www//giz.de%3eourselves%3egovernance-
http://www.brookings.edu/research/good-a


 

 

Mohammed, A & Fadeyi T.J (2017) Media and Democratic imperatives in Nigeria’s fourth 

Republic. Journal of African Studies and Development:7-14 

National Democratic Institute (nd) Democratic Governance. Retrieved from 

https://www.ndl.org/what-we-do>democratic... Accessed online November 12, 2020. 

Nowak, M. (nd) Strengthening international law to support Democratic Governance and 

Genuine Elections. Berlin: Democracy Reporting international. Retrieved from 

www.eods.eu>library strengthen… Accessed online November 8, 2020. 

Nyewusira, V. & Nweke. K (2012) An Appraisal of Nigeria’s Democratization in the fourth 

Republic (1999-2010). International Affairs and Global Strategy, 6:1-10. 

Odo L.U. (2015) Democracy and Good Governance in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects 

Global Journal of Human Social Science, XV(III): 1-9. 

Ogbonnaya, U.M, Omoju, O.E & Udefuna. N. (2012) The challenges of Democratic 

Governance in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, Mediterranean Journal of Social Science 

3(11):685-693. 

Ogunbiyi, T. (2020) Democracy and imperative of Enduring institutions. Retrieved from 

https://businessday.ng/opinion/ Accessed online November 15, 2020. 

Ogundiya, I.S. (2010) Democracy and Good Governance: Nigeria’s Dilemma. African, Journal 

of Political Science and International Relations, 4(6):201-208, 

Ojo, E.O (2006) “Imperatives as sustaining Democratic Values” in Ojo E.O (ed) Challenges of 

Sustainable Democracy in Nigeria, Ibadan: John Archers (Publishers) Limited. 

Oke, L. (2010) Democracy and Governance in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. African Research 

Review, 4(3):31-40. 

Okeke R.C (2014) Democracy AND Sustainable National Development in Nigeria: Reim 

Agining the Nexus European Scientific Journal, 10(1):229-248. 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 54



 

 

Okoroafor, E.C. (2010) Democracy AND Good Governance: Ingredients for Socio-Economic 

Development in Nigeria. International Journal of Development and Management 

Review, 5(1):171-184. 

Omotosho, O.F. (2008) Democracy A Necessary Element for Good Governance and Good 

Governance A necessary Element for Democracy: A symbiotic- Relational 

Assessment. Retrieved from www.stclements.edu>Articles>De... Accessed online 

November 1o, 2020. 

Omotoso, F. (2010) “Federalism, Politics and Governance in Nigeria” in Omotoso, F., Agagu, 

A.A & Abegunde, O (eds) Governance, Politics and polices in Nigeria: An Essay in 

honour of Professor Dipo Kolawole, Porto NOVO: CONOU d’ Afrique (ESAF) 

Omotoso, F. (2016) “Democratic Governance and Political Participation: Introduction to the 

issues” in Omotoso, F & Kehinde, M(eds) Democratic Governance and political 

participation in Nigeria 1999-2014. Baltimore (Maryland): African Books Collective, 

Muse. 

Omoworare, B. (2010) imperatives of Good Governance and Democracy. Retrieved from 

https://m.thenigerianvoice.com>news>impera... Accessed online November 12, 

2020. 

Osaghae, F.S.O. & Adamu, A. (nd) Democratization process and its challenges in Nigeria’s 

fourth republic: Election in perspective. Retrieved from oer.blu.ed.ng>WASMSRV7-4. 

Accessed online November 13, 2020. 

Osinbajo, Y. (2018) The Imperative of cooperation of Arms of Government in a Democratic 

Dispensation. Retrieved from hdnigeria.org/blog>2018/03/02>the… Accessed 

online November 15, 2020. 

Ozohu-Suleiman, A. (2016) Democracy, Good Governance and Development in Nigeria. 

Journal of Public Administration and Policy Research 8(7): 80-88 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 55



 

 

Parker, P. (2017) The importance of Good Governance. Retrieved from 

https://www.quality.org/knowlege>importa... Accessed Online November 8, 2020. 

Paul, S.O, Ogbole F.F.O & Ojo.A.A (2017) Leadership, Democratisation and  Good 

Governance in Nigeria: An interrogation International Journal of peace and conflict 

Studies, 4(2):103 117 

Rossouw, M. (2019) Public Participation: an imperative for Governance and Human 

Development. Retrieved from futureafricaforum.org>featured. Accessed online 

November 15, 2020. 

Saliu, H.A (2012) “Democratic Governance, Corruption and Underdevelopment in Nigeria, 

1990-201” in Mohammed, H., Aluaigba, M.T. & Kabir, A (eds) Corruption, 

Governance and Development in Nigeria: Perspectives and Remedies. Kano: 

Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Research and Training Mambayya House, 

Bayero University. 

Sharma, S.D. (2007) Democracy, Good Governance, and Economic Development Taiwan 

Journal of Democracy 3 (1):29-62. 

  

Sibal,K. (2017) Five Essential Elements to keep Democracy alive and kicking in India. 

Retrieved from https://m.hindustantimes.com>opinion>fire-e... Accessed online 

November 10, 2020. 

Touraine, A. (1998) “Democracy: Its Necessary conditions, its enemies and its opportunities” 

In inter-Parliamentary Union (ed), Democracy: Principles and Achievement, 

Geneva: The Inter-Parliamentary Union. 

Udeh, G.N. (2017) Democracy and Good Governance in Nigeria: The imperatives of 

supporting institutions. Asian Development Policy Review Asian Economic and 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 56



 

 

Social  

Survey. 5(3):148-158. 

Umar Z.M. (2002) “The Problems and Nigeria” in Jega AM., Wakili, H & Ahmad. M(eds) 

Democracy and Democratisation in Nigeria (1999-2001), Kano, Centre for Democratic 

Research and Training, Mambayya House, Bayero Univesity. 

Umar, M.Z (2009) “From Hope to Despair: Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and the challenges of 

Democratic consolidation. In Jega, A.M, Wakili, H & Zango, I.M. (eds) consolidation 

of Democracy in Nigeria: challenges and Prospects, Kano: Aminu Kano Centre for 

Democratic Research and Training, Mambayya House. 

Umar, M.Z. (2009) “From Hope to Despair: Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and the challenges of 

Democratic consolidation” in Jega, A.M, Wakili. H. & Zango I.M (eds) Consolidation of 

Democracy in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects, Kano: Aminu Kano Centre for 

Democratic and Research and Training, Mambayya House. Bayero University. 

Yagboyaju, D.D (2011) Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and the challenge of a Faltering 

Democratisation. African studies Quarterly 12(3):94-106 

Yakub N.O. (2009) “Corruption and its threat to the consolidation of Democracy in Nigeria” 

in Jega A.M. Wakili, H. & Zango I.M. (eds) consolidation of Democracy in Nigeria: 

Challenges and Prospects, Kano: Aminu Kano Centre for Democratic Research and 

Training, Mambayya, House, Bayero University. 

IJO- INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES RESEARCH ( ISSN 2811-2466 )

Volume 06 | Issue 08 | August 2023 | http://www.ijojournals.com/index.php/ssh/index 57


