An Investigation into Factors Militating Against the Practice of Democratic Governance in Nigeria (A Case Study of Logo Local Government

Abstract

This study sought to find out the factors that are militating against democratic governance in Nigeria, with Logo Local Government as case study. The aim is to find out a way of evolving democratic governance in the Local Government for better development. This study was conducted among 50 participants from different groups, who were sampled randomly. Both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collections were used. The documentary review method was also used to provide information on the concept of democratic governance, argument for and against democratic governance, factors militating against democratic governance, effects of nondemocratic governance and how to evolve democratic governance.. Findings from the research reveals factors militating against democratic governance in Logo Local Government as, lack of knowledge, use of thugs, monetary politics, people’s interests above that of the society, non independence of the judiciary, lack of true representation, lack of rule of law, female marginalization and political god-fatherism. The research has also revealed the effects of this undemocratic governance of Logo as poor governance; lack of infrastructure; lack of faith in leadership of the Local Government; deprivations of human rights; irregular payment of salaries; increase in criminal activities; political violence; rise in position of god-fatherism; and lack of unity. Recommendation for evolving democratic governance include, citizens’ education, eradication of the use of thugs, discouragement of monetary politics elimination of corruption, political violence, and god-fatherism; women empowerment, leadership trainings, enforcement of rule of law and true representation, as well as electoral reforms.