The building of the Second Republic required a military government, which had been deeply engaged in shaping the Federation over almost fifteen years, performing as an impartial umpire in the electoral choice of its successors. This complex process is dissected in this article together with an analysis of the relative...
The building of a trans-ethnic political space, and a nation that commands the loyalty of the country’s citizens, have been persistent aspirations of Nigerian governments. The 1979 elections demonstrated that, however much political party leaders may seek to build a national following, they are “trapped” by ethnic and other sectional...
The 1979 Nigerian elections reflected the dedication of Nigerians to pursue democratic governance and the severe challenges to be overcome. The sweeping victory of the NPN, and the election of Alhaji Shehu Shagari as president, required a last-minute manipulation of the formula for achieving victory in the first round. After...
In the years preceding the 1979 national elections, ideology featured prominently in political debates and consultations regarding the new constitutional order. Proponents of a social democratic system were particularly prominent. However, the actual formation of political parties, governed by the new requirements for national representation, and the resurgence of veteran...
A half-century of high revenues from petroleum export has failed to elevate more than a small percentage of Nigerians above the poverty level. The failure to manage the vicissitudes of global oil markets, and to grow other sectors of the economy, has led to constant budget deficits and unsustainable national...
The issues discussed in this essay - the fundamental objectives of the Nigerian state, public accountability, and a code of conduct for state officials - have been central concerns throughout its post- colonial history. Underlying these debates have been differing views about the best political economy model for Nigeria. The...
Contents:
Volume 1, Number 1;
Volume 1, Number 2;
Volume 1, Number 3;
Volume 1, Number 4;
Volume 1, Number 5;
Volume 2, Number 1;
Volume 2, Number 2;
Volume 2, Number 3;
Volume 3, Number 1;
Volume 3, Number 2;
Volume 3, Number 3;
Volume 3, Number 4;
Volume...
A qualitative evaluation of the Africa Demos forum from a small group of African scholars and one journalist writing on various topics related to Africa.