Ex-Governor Fayemi Says Nigeria’s Democracy Is Still ‘Semi-Democracy,’ Not Fully Matured
Former Ekiti State Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi has expressed disappointment over the exclusion of Radio Kudirat operators from the national honours list conferred by President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking on a special Channels Television programme, “Nigeria’s Democratic Journey: An Inter-Generational Conversation on Building a Better Nation,” Fayemi reflected on Nigeria’s ongoing democratic evolution. He pointed out that while the country returned to civilian rule in 1999, it has yet to achieve full democracy.
“What we mustn’t do is conflate elections with democracy,” Fayemi said. “What we got in 1999 was the restoration of the right to vote for our leaders. But in my view, we are still on the journey—we now have a semi-democracy, not full democracy.”
Acknowledging the contributions of past and present leaders, Fayemi emphasized the need to deepen democratic institutions and practices.
Fayemi, who also served as Minister of Mines and Steel Development and was a key figure in the pro-democracy struggle against military rule, recounted his role in operating Radio Kudirat—a secret radio station that broadcast anti-regime messages during General Sani Abacha’s oppressive era.
He described the grave risks faced by himself and colleagues, including smuggling transmitters and operating under constant threat of arrest or assassination.
“I carried the transmitters of Radio Kudirat on an Air France flight that was destined for Cotonou but diverted to Lagos during the height of the crisis,” he recalled. “I could have been picked up and become history—like many who never returned.”
Fayemi praised the courage of those involved, explaining their bravery was grounded in conviction rather than recklessness.
“It’s not that we were fearless or aimlessly bold—we just didn’t fully comprehend the enormity of what we were up against. Some of us are simply fortunate to be alive today. Those who lost their lives weren’t reckless; they followed their convictions,” he said.
