1. Presidential System:
Nigeria operates a presidential system of government, with an elected president serving as both head of state and government. The president is elected for a four-year term through a direct vote by citizens. The president appoints the ministers who head different government departments.
2. Legislature:
Nigeria has bicameral legislature consisting of the Senate and House of Representatives. Members of the Senate are elected by popular vote from each of the country's 36 states, and members of the House of Representatives are elected from their respective constituencies. The Senate has 109 members, while the House of Representatives has 360 members.
3. Elections:
Nigeria's elections are held periodically to elect the president, state governors, and members of the National Assembly and the State Houses of Assembly. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is responsible for conducting elections and overseeing the electoral process. However, the country's electoral system has faced challenges, including voter irregularities and allegations of fraud, though effort are being made to improve transparency.
4. Political Parties:
Nigeria has a multi-party system with several political parties competing for elections. The two dominant parties are the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). These parties have alternatingly controlled the federal government since 1999 when Nigeria transitioned from military to civilian rule.
5. Federal Structure:
Nigeria is a federal state comprising 36 states and a federal capital territory, Abuja. Each state has its own government, legislature, and judiciary, reflecting the country's diverse ethnic groups and regional interests. The federal government is responsible for issues such as foreign policy, defense, currency, and inter-state matters.
6. Rule of Law:
The Nigerian constitution provides for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary. However, there have been concerns about the impartiality of the judicial system, particularly in politically sensitive cases.
7. Civil Society and Media Participation:
Civil society organizations and the media play a vital role in promoting democracy and holding the government accountable. They serve as watchdogs, monitor elections ensure public interests are represented in decision making.
8. Challenges to Democracy:
Despite the progress made in democratic governance, Nigeria still faces several challenges. These include corruption, poverty, ethnic tension, and security issues. The country's democratic institutions continue to evolve and strengthen to effectively address these challenges and promote sustainable democratic growth.
