The role of opposition in Nigerian politics

Abstract

In a political and truly democratic endeavour, the foundational basis for balance leads to the horizontal
separation of powers rather than any vertical formulation of any kind of corruption of this pragmatic ethos.
Central to this balance in government is that of the expression of opposition on a parallel political level.
This paper delves into the nature, both legal and philosophical, of opposition in politics generally and in
Nigeria, in particular. This is written in a period of genuine befuddlement in Nigeria in view of the present
muffling of opposition. The paper concludes that the role of opposition is sacrosanct as it is essential to
the smooth running of any representative democracy. It has helped in galvanizing the citizenry to partake
in government’s activities; define issues in the psyche of the ruler and the ruled; present political
candidates whose candidature are founded more on issues and less on sex, tribe or religion; accept the
responsibility of governance on an agenda that is rate-based. Government must therefore, at all levels
strive to open the channels of expression and encourage individuality of opinions as this helps in opening
up debates for the polity, leading to better thought-out policies.