As Nigeria marked its Independence Day, prominent activist and lawyer, Deji Adeyanju, has issued a sharp statement reflecting on the state of the nation, declaring that democracy “only exists in Abuja” and is “almost non-existent at the subnational levels.”
In his Independence Day address, Adeyanju warned that Nigeria is showing “No Visible Sign” of making progress, zeroing in on the unchecked power and lack of accountability wielded by state governors.
Adeyanju heavily criticised the governors, stating they “wield excessive power with little to no accountability” and are often “shielded from scrutiny” even as their emoluments continue to climb.
He cited a recent example where 19 state governors allegedly attempted to “cripple the EFCC,” arguing that only judicial intervention saved the nation’s anti-corruption fight from a “fatal blow.”
The activist also highlighted the widespread refusal by state leaders to enforce key judicial rulings, specifically pointing to the non-enforcement of the Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy.
“Leaders cannot pick and choose which laws to obey,” Adeyanju stated. “True democracy must be rooted in accountability at every level, not just in the Federal Capital Territory.”
Adeyanju’s critique extended to the Federal Cabinet, where he claimed the picture is “no better.” He alleged that only about four ministers are “visible and working,” with the rest being “missing in action” and acting as mere “ministers by portfolio.”
“A country of Nigeria’s magnitude and challenges cannot afford ghost ministers,” he asserted.
Furthermore, he stressed that Independence “means nothing without security,” urging the government to urgently strengthen internal and territorial security.
Adeyanju lamented the daily reports of “unknown gunmen” unleashing terror, which he said must not be allowed to continue if citizens are to feel safe in their homes and on the roads.
Adeyanju concluded his statement by emphasising that Independence Day should be more than “just a date on the calendar,” but rather “an ongoing work of building a nation where democracy, accountability, and security are real for every Nigerian, not just a privileged few.”
