Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu, describing Nigeria’s democracy as a system that benefits the elite while leaving ordinary citizens behind.
In a statement released on Thursday, June 12, to mark the country’s annual Democracy Day, Adeyanju said the celebration had become largely symbolic for most Nigerians, amid deepening poverty and governance failures.
“As Nigeria marks another Democracy Day, we are reminded once again that democracy in this country serves the powerful, not the people,” Adeyanju said.
He singled out the removal of fuel subsidy as one of the most damaging policies of the current government.
“Perhaps the most consequential and regrettable decision of the current administration has been the abrupt removal of the fuel subsidy,” he stated.
Adeyanju noted that while the subsidy removal was presented as a strategic move to redirect national resources, its outcome has been increased inflation, economic hardship, and greater inequality.
“What was promised as a path to national rebirth has instead become a gateway to unchecked looting at the subnational level,” he said.
He accused state governments of failing to use increased allocations from the policy to improve public services. “There is little, if any, evidence to suggest that the increased funds have translated into better lives for citizens. No new roads, no improved schools, no functional hospitals,” he said.
He added that the policy had instead led to “expanding convoys, lavish spending, and political realignments as governors defect to the ruling party to secure continued access to power and privilege.”
Adeyanju also raised concerns over stalled reforms on local government autonomy. While acknowledging efforts by the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to address the issue, he accused governors of continuing to divert local government funds.
“Despite the financial benefits states now enjoy, they continue to cripple the tier of government closest to the people,” he said.
“Our democracy, instead of empowering citizens, has become a tool for entrenching elite control,” he said.
Reflecting on 26 years of uninterrupted civil rule since 1999, Adeyanju questioned the beneficiaries of Nigeria’s democratic journey. “Who truly benefits from this democracy?” he asked.
He called for a shift toward leadership built on integrity and accountability. “Until leadership is redefined by service, transparency, and genuine commitment to national development, Nigeria’s democracy will remain a celebration for the few, while the majority continue to suffer in silence,” he said.
