CONSOLIDATING NIGERIAN DEMOCRACY THROUGH EQUITY AND INCLUSION

Abstract

In 1999, Nigeria embraced democracy as a form of government and governance. This development came with lots of expectations and anticipation from many if not all Nigerians. ‘All’ wanted to be heard, to participate in the decision making, at least in things that affect them. Democracy being a politics of number and participation of all (even if it is representative) is expected to be inclusive and equitable in distribution of its dividends. However, one may not be wrong to state that democracy in Nigeria is everything but inclusive and equitable. Many groups, sexes and classes have been made spectators in what they are expected to be ‘active participants’. Consequently, this write-up looks at equity and inclusion in consolidating democracy in Nigeria. We looked at the different ways that equity and inclusion is not practiced in Nigerian democracy. Mention will also be made of different groups that are not included in decision making process. Conflict theory was adopted as our tool for analysis. Secondary sources of data collection were used and we proffered possible solution to the identified problem of inequity and exclusion at the end.