Challenges of Shrinking Civic Space and the Path towards Sustainable Democracy in Nigeria: Lessons from the President Muhammadu Buhari Administration

Abstract

This paper examines the experienced challenges of shrinking civic space and the path towards sustainable democracy in Nigeria during the President Muhammadu Buhari administration. It discusses the etymology and problems of shrinking civic space in Nigeria under democratic dispensation. The paper also highlights the potential consequences and some practical instances of shrunk civic spaces during Buhari’s administration. It goes further to link the concept, roles, setbacks and examples of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)and how they attempted to promote and safeguard civil space. The paper identifies the connectivity between Marxism and Liberalism theory in the Nigerian civic space and highlights the efforts made by these theories to address the shrinking of civil space. Furthermore, it presents a comprehensive analysis of the prospects and challenges of the civic space in Nigeria and provides steps for policy reforms as a roadmap towards achieving sustainable democracy. The researchers recommend amongst others that the government should prioritize transparency and accountability in its actions and policies. This could be done by promoting access to information and ensuring that public officials are held accountable for their actions and combating corruption. By promoting transparency and accountability, the government is most likely to build trust with citizens, strengthen democratic institutions, and create an environment conducive to sustainable democracy in Nigeria.