“Nigeria’s Problem Is Beyond Politicians: Most Citizens Are Not Qualified to Vote” — Oyeleye Solomon

 Oriontimes Newsroom| August 12, 2026

Comrade Oyeleye Solomon has argued that Nigeria’s democratic challenges cannot be blamed solely on politicians, insisting that the quality of citizens participating in the democratic process is equally critical to the success or failure of the system.

Solomon made the remarks during a conversation with Oriontimes at the organisation’s studio, where he reflected on the history, purpose and performance of democracy and its challenges in Nigeria.

According to him, democracy, like every other system of government, is capable of delivering positive results when operated by people with the knowledge, discipline and sense of responsibility required to make it work.

He, however, maintained that the fundamental weakness of many political systems lies not necessarily in the structure itself, but in human conduct.

“There is no system of government that cannot work. The reason any system fails is because of the human being himself,” Solomon said.

He questioned whether citizens fully understand the responsibility that comes with democratic participation, particularly the power to vote and determine who governs them.

Solomon argued that while democracy gives every citizen an equal voice and the opportunity to influence the direction of society, such equality also presents a challenge when voters do not possess the knowledge or capacity to make informed choices.

He said the question Nigerians should ask is not only whether politicians are performing, but also whether citizens are making responsible decisions with their own lives and contributing meaningfully to society.

“Look at parenting, relationships, careers and businesses. Are people becoming productive? What are they able to do with their own lives?” he asked.

Using Osun State as an example, Solomon questioned the preparedness of citizens to use their voting power strategically to advance their communities rather than allowing personal interests, sentiments or unhealthy competition to influence their choices.

He suggested that democracy would function more effectively when citizens possess a reasonable level of knowledge, understanding and commitment to societal development.

“Democracy will thrive when everyone makes equal efforts and has knowledge and understanding,” he said.

Solomon also drew attention to the contrast in priorities among citizens, noting that while one individual may be focused on building a career or creating a sustainable future, another may be preoccupied with pursuits that contribute little to personal or societal development.

He linked this disparity to what he described as one of the contradictions within capitalism: the tendency for people with greater knowledge, resources or influence to exploit rather than empower those who are less privileged.

According to him, the responsibility of the more enlightened members of society should not be to “colonise” the less informed, but to improve their orientation and create opportunities for them to become productive participants in society.

His position therefore places the responsibility for democratic development beyond the political class, arguing that good governance requires not only accountable leaders but also informed, responsible and productive citizens.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with political, economic and social challenges, Solomon’s argument raises a fundamental question: Can democracy deliver its promises when citizens are given equal political power but do not possess equal levels of knowledge, responsibility and commitment to societal progress?

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