Former Vice President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has reiterated his belief in democracy as the most effective form of governance, despite its inherent flaws.
Speaking in Nigeria on Monday, January 27, 2025, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the enduring value of democracy in guaranteeing individual liberties and rights. He quoted Winston S. Churchill’s famous observation: “Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others.”
“It’s not a perfect system, but it’s the best we’ve got,” Dr. Bawumia added, highlighting democracy’s role in safeguarding freedoms and fostering checks and balances within governance structures.
Citing the 2023 Open Society Barometer report, Dr. Bawumia noted that 92% of Nigerians consider living in a democratically governed country important, while 69% prefer democracy over other forms of governance.
“This should leave no doubt that democracy has been embraced by the Nigerian people,” Dr. Bawumia stated, praising Nigeria’s commitment to democratic ideals despite existing challenges.
He urged Nigerians to strengthen their democratic institutions and practices, emphasizing that robust democratic systems are key to achieving greater prosperity and political stability.
“Let us strengthen democracy, for it is through robust democratic systems that we can achieve greater prosperity and political stability,” he remarked.