Nigeria’s Democracy Has Overcome Threats – Ex-Head of State Abubakar

Former military Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, has stated that Nigeria’s democracy has withstood attempts by forces seeking to destabilize it.

Speaking at the public presentation of the book Celebrating 100 Years of Political Party Evolution in Nigeria — The Imperatives of Nigeria’s Political Stability: Issues and Solutions, organized by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) on Thursday in Abuja, Abubakar emphasized the resilience of Nigeria’s democratic system.

Represented by retired General Abdulrasheed Aliyu, the ex-Head of State affirmed that democracy in Nigeria is firmly established.

“There is no substitute for the government of the people, by the people, and for the people, which democracy represents, as sovereignty resides with the people.

“I am proud that my administration, as the then military Head of State, ushered in this democratic era by handing over power to an elected president on May 29, 1999.

“My government laid a solid foundation for democratic governance. It proves that when leaders are patriotic, passionate, and committed to building strong democratic institutions, democracy can flourish and deliver its dividends to the people.

“We must continue to nurture and strengthen our democracy, as there is no alternative to civil rule. Our democracy has been tested and shaken by reactionary forces, yet it has survived—demonstrating the resilience and commitment of Nigerians to representative governance,” he said.

Abubakar, who assumed leadership after the passing of General Sani Abacha in June 1998, was Nigeria’s last military ruler. He fulfilled his promise of transitioning the country to civilian rule by handing over power to Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999.

He commended IPAC for its initiative in documenting the nation’s political history, describing the book as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey.