Former Nigeria President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has advocated for a new democratic model built for Africa, that he called ‘African democracy’ saying, the Western liberal version imposed across the continent does not fit its history, culture and values.
Speaking at the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Democracy Dialogue in Bauchi, Obasanjo described Africa’s adoption of the Western system as wearing “a dress that was not made to fit.”
He chaired the dialogue, which drew former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Namadi Sambo, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, constitutional experts and civil society leaders from across Africa.
According to Obasanjo, the Western model has produced a “winner-takes-all” political culture. Once in power, he said, winners ignore opponents and other sections of society. He also faulted the concept of “loyal opposition,” noting that in many African societies opposition is often viewed as enmity, not a legitimate role in governance.
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“The democracy we practice has no African context, no African content,” he said. “Call it what you like, just make sure it has history, culture and values that are African.”
He urged African countries to design systems rooted in their own realities rather than copying foreign political parties and judicial structures.
Obasanjo warned that Nigeria’s unity depends on protecting its diversity. “Nigeria is what it is because of our diversity. Remove diversity out of Nigeria, you will probably have Republic of Oduduwa or Republic of Danfodio. That will not be Nigeria,” he said.
He also criticized the growing influence of money in politics, saying inducements and vote-buying are increasing “by leaps and bounds.” On inclusion, he expressed concern that Nigeria has not elected a female governor since the Fourth Republic began more than two decades ago.
Obasanjo concluded that democratic reform must evolve with a society’s values if it is to deliver representation and stability.
