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ABUJA – Political stakeholders, thought leaders and citizens on Tuesday examined the dynamics of power struggles between citizens and the ruling elite in Nigeria’s democratic landscape during the 5th Frontier Discourse Annual Public Lecture Series and Awards organised by Pacesetter Frontier Magazine.
The event, held at the Nigerian National Merit Award House, Abuja, focused on the theme “Politics of Convergence and Collisions: Navigating Power Struggles in Shaping Democracy.”
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Udenta O. Udenta, Founding National Secretary of the Alliance for Democracy, said the Nigerian state often represents an ideology rather than the people themselves.
“It’s impossible to represent everyone. You represent your policies, your government and the segment of people who buy into your ideology,” Udenta stated.
He noted that political collisions are inevitable when diverse interests and social classes clash, emphasizing the need for dialogue, inclusion and ideology-driven governance.
In his remarks, Dr. Ahmed Sajoh, Executive Director of the FutureNow Initiative and second keynote speaker, lamented that democracy in Nigeria had been reduced to elections rather than governance.
“Our political parties have become revolving doors. People move from one party to another. How then do we hold them accountable?” he queried.
Sajoh stressed the importance of mentoring the younger generation before transferring power to them, warning that leadership without proper guidance could be disastrous.
Chairman of the occasion and Senator representing Abia South, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe, decried the erosion of moral values in governance and criticised leaders who prioritise appeasement over justice.
“You do not reward those who thrive on ransom and blood. A government that chooses appeasement over justice signs the death warrant of its citizens,” Abaribe said.
During a panel session, journalist Laolu Akande urged citizens outside the political class to “invade” the system, warning that complacency amounts to complicity. Also speaking, activist Aisha Yesufu said poverty had been weaponised to suppress dissent, adding that education remains a critical foundation for sustaining democracy.
“We cannot fully access democracy without education. Children must be taught early about good governance and the power they hold to demand accountability,” she said.
Catholic priest and social commentator, Rev. Fr. John Chinyere Oluoma, condemned what he called Nigeria’s “politics of convenience,” insisting that genuine change must come through civic participation and ideological commitment.
“Let political parties be founded on ideology. State clearly what system of government you represent in your manifesto so voters know they’re choosing ideas, not tribes, religions or personalities,” he said.
Mr. Ademola Oshodi, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs, highlighted the importance of building institutions that hold the government accountable. He urged citizens to engage more actively in governance and the electoral process rather than focus solely on complaints.
Speaking with journalists, the founder of Pacesetter Frontier Magazine, Mr. Onochie Igwesi, said the initiative aligns with the role of the media as the fourth estate of the realm. He noted that conversations ahead of the 2027 general elections have begun, urging citizens to make decisions based on facts and data rather than sentiments.
The event also featured an award segment recognising outstanding individuals and institutions for excellence and impact.
Award recipients included:Good Governance (Governor of the Year): H.E. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Public Sector Person of the Year: Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu Humanitarian Service Award: Mary Dinah Foundation, Media Person of the Year (TV): Aaron Atsahyel
Media Person of the Year (Radio): Maryann Okon and Brand of the Year: Centre for Memories
Promising Entertainer (Music): Ugochukwu Uneabunso (Une 50).
Others are ; Business Person of the Year: Chief Chukwudi Nnaji, Frontier Person Award: Prof. Udenta O. Udenta and Dr. Ahmad Sajoh Literary Icon Award: Abuja Literary Society Tech Person of the Year: Gbenga Sesan Sports Icon of the Year: Barr. Amobi Ezeaku,Lifetime Achievement Award: H.E. Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo.
