Political stakeholders and citizens have examined the dynamics of power struggles between citizens and ruling elites in Nigeria’s democratic landscape at the 5th Frontier Discourse Annual Public Lecture Series and Awards, organized by Pacesetter Frontier Magazine.
The event, held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the Nigerian National Merit Award House, Abuja, focused on the theme, “Politics of Convergence and Collisions: Navigating Power Struggles in Shaping Democracy.”
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Udenta O. Udenta, Founding National Secretary of the Alliance for Democracy, argued that the state often represents an ideology rather than the people themselves.
“It’s impossible to represent everyone. You represent your policies, your government, and the segment of people who buy into your ideology”, Udenta said.
He said collisions are inevitable when the interests of different groups and classes clash, emphasizing the need for dialogue and inclusion in resolving societal conflicts.
Also speaking, Dr. Ahmed Sajoh, Executive Director, FutureNow Initiative, and the second keynote speaker, lamented that democracy in Nigeria had become synonymous with elections rather than governance.
“Our political parties have become revolving doors. People move from one party to another. How, then, do we hold them accountable?”
He stressed the importance of mentoring young people before transferring power to them, warning that leadership without guidance could be disastrous.
Chairman of the occasion and senator representing Abia South district, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe, expressed concern over the erosion of moral values in governance, criticizing leaders who prioritize appeasement over justice.
“You do not reward those who thrive on ransom and blood. A government that chooses appeasement over justice signs the death warrant of its citizens.”
During the panel session, Journalist, Laolu Akande, urged citizens outside the political system to “invade” it, warning that complacency equated complicity.
Activist, Aisha Yesufu, highlighted how poverty has been weaponized to suppress dissent in Nigeria. She emphasized education as a critical foundation for sustaining democracy.
“We cannot fully access democracy without education. Children must be taught early about good governance and the power they hold to demand accountability.”
Catholic priest and social commentator, Rev. Fr. John Chinyere Oluoma, condemned what he described as Nigeria’s “politics of convenience,” insisting that true change must come through civil action. Echoing Udenta’s call for ideology-driven politics, he said:
“Let political parties be founded on ideology. State clearly what system of government you represent in your manifesto, so voters know they’re choosing ideas, not tribes, religions, or personalities.”
Mr. Ademola Oshodi, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs, reminded citizens of the importance of institutions that hold the government accountable. He urged Nigerians to focus less on complaints and more on understanding the slow but steady evolution of governance, encouraging active engagement in the electoral process.
Speaking to newsmen on the choice of the theme, the Founder of Pacesetter Frontier Magazine, Onochie Igwesi, noted that the idea behind the initiative was in line with the duties of the press as the fourth estate of the realm. He stressed that conversations geared towards the 2027 elections had begun and it was necessary for citizens to make their decisions in 2027 based on data, not sentiments.
The event also featured awards recognizing outstanding individuals and institutions. Honorees included:
Good Governance (Governor of the Year): H.E. Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah
Public Sector Person of the Year: Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu
Humanitarian Service Award: Mary Dinah Foundation
Media Person of the Year (TV): Aaron Atsahyel
Media Person of the Year (Radio): Maryann Okon
Brand of the Year: Centre for Memories
Promising Entertainer (Music): Ugochukwu Uneabunso (Une 50)
Business Person of the Year: Chief Chukwudi Nnaji
Frontier Person Award: Prof. Udenta O. Udenta, Dr. Ahmad Sajoh
Literary Icon Award: Abuja Literary Society
Tech Person of the Year: Gbenga Sesan
Sports Icon of the Year: Barr. Amobi Ezeaku
Lifetime Achievement Award: H.E. Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo
Other highlights were a saxophone performance and live musical entertainment.