Former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, has argued that Nigeria has yet to achieve full democracy, despite 26 years of civilian rule. He voiced this opinion during a Channels Television programme marking this year’s Democracy Day.
Fayemi emphasized that although elections now feature regularly in Nigeria’s political process, the country still lacks the fundamental principles that define true democracy.
“We shouldn’t mistake elections for democracy,” he stated. “In 1999, we gained the right to vote for leaders, but that’s only one part of the democratic process. What we have is civilian rule—at best, a semi-democracy.”
While acknowledging the strides made by successive administrations, Fayemi pointed out that Nigeria still needs deeper democratic values and stronger institutional reforms.
He also reflected on his time as a pro-democracy activist during the military regime of the late General Sani Abacha. Fayemi recounted how he and others operated Radio Kudirat, a covert radio station that defied the military dictatorship.
“We weren’t fearless—we simply believed in our cause,” he recalled. “I once smuggled a Radio Kudirat transmitter into Lagos aboard an Air France flight during the struggle. That act alone could have cost me my life.”
Fayemi noted that many activists who died in the struggle didn’t act recklessly—they believed in freedom and paid the ultimate price. “Some of us survived by luck,” he said. “Those who died weren’t careless; they were committed.”
He recalled that, during the Oputa Panel hearings, some agents admitted receiving orders to eliminate resistance leaders.
Fayemi praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for honoring some pro-democracy heroes, calling the gesture commendable. However, he criticized the government for overlooking many unsung contributors who worked behind the scenes.
“Yes, I was the face of Radio Kudirat, but I didn’t work alone,” he said. “Many others risked their lives and deserve recognition. Celebrating only the visible figures falls short of true appreciation.”
Fayemi’s remarks have reignited public debate about how far Nigeria must go to become a genuine democracy.
