National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Senator Seriake Dickson, on Friday warned against the rise of what he described as “civilian dictatorship” in democratic governments, saying elected leaders who undermine the Constitution and democratic institutions pose a threat similar to military rulers.

The former Bayelsa State governor spoke in Abuja after receiving the Pillar of Nigeria Democracy Award at the Diplomatic Digest 6th Anniversary Lecture, organised in collaboration with the Diplomatic Correspondence Chapel.

The event, attended by diplomats and other distinguished guests, drew representatives of the Ghanaian High Commission, the Burkina Faso High Commission and the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Dickson reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey since the country’s return to civil rule in 1999, noting that he had been actively involved in the democratic process from its formative years.

The senator stressed that democracy remains the surest path to national development but requires sustained commitment to the rule of law, credible elections and strong institutions.

He said, “There are twists and turns, as well as ups and downs. What is important is a commitment to democratic governance, observance of the rule of law, democratic principles, a free and independent media, an impartial judiciary, and an electoral body that is truly independent and enjoys the confidence and trust of the people.

“Without these essential elements, there is little difference between a civilian dictator and a military dictator.”

While acknowledging that Nigeria has left behind military rule, Dickson cautioned that elected officials must not weaken democratic institutions under the guise of constitutional governance.

He said the shrinking democratic space across Africa, particularly within the ECOWAS sub-region, should concern Nigeria, which has traditionally played a leading role in promoting regional integration and democratic governance.

According to him, Nigeria’s influence within the regional bloc has diminished under the current administration.

“Considerable effort and sacrifice have gone into building and sustaining the regional body. It is therefore unfortunate that, under the APC government and its dysfunctional foreign policy, ECOWAS has weakened before our very eyes.

“The emergence of breakaway blocs, such as the Alliance of Sahel States, does not speak well of Nigerian leadership,” he stated, adding that Nigeria’s leadership remains central to the stability and success of both ECOWAS and the African Union.

Dickson also urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure that democratic institutions are not used to advance partisan interests, saying governments across Africa must respect constitutional provisions, including term limits and the conduct of free and credible elections.

“When a government is perceived as oppressive, dictatorial, and above the Constitution and the institutions of the state, it inevitably loses the confidence and support of its citizens,” he said.

“When a government or political party begins to see itself as bigger than the nation, the Constitution, the judiciary, and other democratic institutions, it loses legitimate and popular support. This remains one of the greatest threats to democracy in the ECOWAS sub-region and in Africa in general.”

The former Senate Committee Chairman on Ecology further urged ministers, governors and other public office holders to uphold the rule of law and strengthen democratic institutions through responsible leadership.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Dickson called for firm guarantees of the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission, the judiciary and security agencies, arguing that public confidence in the electoral process depends on institutions that are impartial and free from political interference.

He said only elections that genuinely reflect the will of the electorate would deepen Nigeria’s democracy and strengthen constitutional governance.

Dickson dedicated his award to Nigerians, especially members, officials and candidates of the NDC, saying the party remained committed to protecting Nigeria’s multi-party democracy and advancing democratic ideals.