Africa Practices Winner-Takes-All Democracy, Needs Rethink – Obasanjo
12th August, 2026 | News
Obasanjo Calls for African Rethink of Western-Style Democracy
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticised the model of democracy practised across much of Africa, arguing that the Western liberal democratic system inherited by many African countries lacks the context and values needed to address the continent’s realities.
Obasanjo made the remarks on Tuesday at the 2026 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation Democracy Dialogue in Bauchi, where he described the adoption of Western-style democracy in Africa as similar to wearing a dress that was not made to fit.
According to the former president, the system has encouraged a “winner-takes-all” political culture in which those who win elections often disregard their opponents and their supporters.
He argued that the concept of a loyal opposition does not always translate effectively into African societies because political opponents are often viewed as enemies rather than legitimate participants in the democratic process.
Obasanjo also raised concerns about Nigeria’s failure to properly manage its diversity, stressing that the country’s different ethnic, cultural and religious identities must be protected and nurtured.
He warned that democracy should not be reduced to elections alone, arguing that African countries need political systems that reflect their history, culture and values.
The former president further criticised the growing influence of money and inducements in Nigerian politics, saying the trend had increased significantly over the years.
He also expressed concern over the limited representation of women in Nigerian politics, noting that the country has not elected a female governor since the beginning of the Fourth Republic more than two decades ago.
Obasanjo maintained that African countries should be willing to reassess the democratic models they inherited from Western nations, particularly as those countries continue to debate and reform aspects of their own political systems.
He called for an African form of democracy rooted in the continent’s history, culture and values, saying it could still be called democracy but should have genuine African context and content.
The dialogue was chaired by Obasanjo and attended by former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former Vice President Namadi Sambo, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, constitutional experts and civil society representatives from across Africa.
News Source: Channels News