An interesting trend is going on in Nigeria in the name of democracy. Many observers have noticed it, but analysts and activists have either dismissed it or have not taken sufficient notice of it. It is pervasive, progressive, and at times subtle. The outcome of the 2027 elections has been taken as a fait accompli. Almost all government agencies are acting as if they are under instructions to protect the ruling party’s interests and clamp down on the opposition. This is why a section of the citizenry is said to be quickly resorting to hopelessness and losing faith in their democracy. Almost everyone believes that their votes will not count. They have lost complete trust and confidence in their institutions – be they police, electoral institutions, anti-corruption agencies, and even the judiciary. The phenomenon is akin to what is known as state capture.
Nigeria, state capture and the implications on 2027 elections, By Uche Igwe
