A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dan Ulasi, has argued that Nigeria does not operate genuine democracy but rather a form of civil rule dominated by godfatherism, money politics, and weak institutions.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Friday, Ulasi described the country’s political structure as fundamentally flawed, stressing that very few politicians attain public office without the influence of benefactors.
“I have always said that we don’t operate democracy in this country. What we operate is civil rule. Tell me how many people have come out of their own desire, with their own financial support, and started as councillors, chairmen, governors, members of state or national assemblies, or even as president,” Ulasi said.
He explained that the culture of political sponsorship stifles independent thought and often leads to crises, as politicians tend to abandon their patrons once they secure power and resources.
Ulasi further noted that politics in Nigeria is largely treated as a business venture, with huge financial investments made to capture public office rather than to serve the people.
