No democracy without criticism – says Activist

​From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

​Civic advocate Yusuf Ishyaku Goje has warned that Nigeria’s democracy will remain hollow unless citizens embrace constructive criticism, protect dissent, and ensure that the power of the people outweighs the power of those in office.
​In a signed statement made available to the media, Goje argued that a political environment where citizens are intimidated into “falling in line” mimics a military dictatorship rather than a democratic society.
He said:​“There is no democracy without critics,” Goje stated. “If all of us must be intimidated into falling in line, then we might as well accept that we have civilians in power with a military mentality. The difference being the attire.”
​Goje outlined several fundamental principles that must be upheld for Nigerian democracy to yield actual dividends.
According to him, true democracy only exists where the authority of voters, communities, and civil society sets the limits of governance.
“The power of the people must be more powerful than the people in power,” he noted.
Continuing he said leadership must close the gap between constitutional promises and the everyday realities of ordinary Nigerians.
“Institutional decisions must supersede the whims of powerful individuals. Goje warned that selective application of the law erodes public trust and invites systemic abuse.
“Fundamental rights belong to everyone, not just political allies or those who align with the ruling class,” he stated.
​Drawing a line between political propaganda and genuine governance, Goje emphasized that true democratic credentials are proven through conduct, policy, and a respect for dissent rather than lofty rhetoric.
​He issued a stern reminder to public officials about the fleeting nature of political authority.
​“Power intoxicates, but it is transient and humbles you when you are without it,”
“What you do with power when in office always catches up with you when you’re out of office. May we reap afterward what we sow when we are in a position of power,” Goje cautioned.
​The activist urged Nigerians to transition from passive observers to active participants by continuously tracking budgets, monitoring public policies, and demanding accountability.
He maintained that questioning the government is not an act of hostility, but a vital safeguard for democracy.
​The statement comes amid ongoing national debates regarding civic space, media freedom, and the treatment of dissenting voices in Nigeria.
Goje concluded that Nigeria’s democratic future will ultimately be shaped by the daily choices of both its leaders and its citizens, rather than political slogans.