Democracy and Conflicts: Lessons from Nigeria’s Fourth Republic

Abstract

In recent years democracy’s fortunes were tested globally.  In many new democracies  of Africa and beyond there has been increasing conflicts. Political tension and  economic unrest in African democracies is another danger facing the continent.  Nigeria is one of the countries facing democratic setback and high political drama.  Though previous studies compared the nexus between democracy and conflicts, this  study discerns on whether or not democracy has impact on resurgence of conflicts in  Nigeria between 1999 and 2021. Secondary source of data was used to examine  whether the current conflicts in Nigeria are as a result of democracy. Results indicate  that though conflict is on the increase in Nigeria under the present democratic  dispensation, however developing economies and culturally diverse democracies are  likely to be confronted with numerous conflicts in a short run due to its weak  democratic institutions capable of consolidating the system. The paper maintained  that democracy will continue to be a better alternative for resolving conflicts in  Nigeria despite its challenges. We suggest that democratic values such as rule of law,  accountability, justice and fairness should be improved.