Nigeria’s democratic governance is on track, according to Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD. Abbas expressed optimism about the country’s progress in democratic governance, acknowledging significant challenges, but emphasizing that Nigeria is making steady progress. The Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu made these remarks while representing the Speaker Tajudeen Abbas at the 60th birthday colloquium of former Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha.
Abbas noted that Nigeria’s democratic system has come to stay, with periodic elections being a basic feature of democratic practice. He emphasized that democracy guarantees the right for divergent views and has immensely benefited the people of Nigeria, particularly through legislative engagements of the 10th House. Abbas highlighted some key legislations, including the Minimum Wage Amendment Bill, Students Loan Act, and Cybercrimes Act, which have positively impacted the lives of Nigerians.
The Speaker also acknowledged that democracy is not without its challenges, but emphasized that it is a learning process. He stressed the importance of interrogating the process of democratic governance, including the conduct of elections, substance of governance, and upholding of the rule of law. Abbas described democracy as a journey, noting that Nigeria is yet to arrive at its destination point.
In his tribute to Ihedioha, Abbas described him as an astute lawmaker who has shown capacity in leadership. He praised Ihedioha’s contributions to the House of Representatives, where he served in various capacities, including as Deputy Speaker and briefly as Speaker. Abbas expressed gratitude to God for blessing Ihedioha with good health and youthful looks at 60.
The colloquium, which featured a lecture by Rt. Rev. Dr. Matthew Hassan Kukah, aimed to explore the topic “Is democracy failing in Africa?” Abbas’s remarks emphasized the importance of reflecting on the progress of democracy in Nigeria and Africa, rather than simply asking if it is failing.
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