According to a report by The Nation, Sule Lamido, former governor of Jigawa State and presidential aspirant, warned that Nigeria’s democratic foundations are under strain. At a political event in Abuja, he argued that the independence of key institutions is being steadily eroded. Lamido said the changes unfolding under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership threaten the balance that underpins free governance in the country.
In his remarks, Lamido pointed to five bodies that once acted as checks and balances. He listed the judiciary, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the executive branch, the legislature and political parties. According to Lamido, each of these organs now faces pressure to align with the president’s agenda rather than serve the public interest.
Lamido criticised a trend he described as the personalisation of national agencies. He noted that offices and programmes that once bore neutral titles now carry the president’s name or the names of his closest allies. This practice, he said, undermines the sense of collective ownership that is essential in a republic.
He expressed concern that elevating one individual in this way risks hollowing out institutional culture. Lamido argued that when state institutions serve as mere extensions of a leader’s persona, their staff become reliant on patronage rather than merit. He warned that talent and professionalism will decline if careers hinge on loyalty rather than competence.
Looking ahead, Lamido suggested the need for reforms to restore autonomy to these bodies. He urged party leaders, lawmakers and civic groups to push for legislative safeguards that protect appointments and budgets from executive overreach. Restoring transparent procedures, he said, will help recover public trust and prevent further weakening of the system.
Lamido concluded by calling on citizens to demand accountability. He insisted that a vibrant democracy requires institutions able to act independently of any single individual. By reinforcing clear rules and resisting personalisation, he said Nigeria can reaffirm the principles of its republican constitution and safeguard its democratic future.
Lamido said, “How can one man’s name be stamped on everything in Nigeria? We are becoming a Republic of Tinubu. When you play God, and you have sycophants around you, you end up dancing naked.
Find Verified News At Your fingertips Click The Button Below
