Nigeria achieved independence on October 1st 1960. It became a republic in 1963. The Biafran war took place in the 1970's and their has been relative peace since then.
Nigeria celebrated it's independence earlier this year. As a Nigerian my self I took part in the recent celebration. it was bitter-sweet because of the #ENDSARS protest that took place in the same period of time. I couldn't help wonder "After about 60 years of independence, what have we to show for it-NOTHING". Nigeria is in a the worst economic state it has ever been. Infact, there are more people living below a dollar a day because of the terrible economy and things look like its getting worse.
CHANGE! CHANGE! CHANGE! Has been our motor for quite sometime now. I just wonder why no one sees that truly Nigeria is not ready for civilian rule. Every major county had a form of autocratic rule at some point in it's life cycle.
Using the Asian tigers as a case sturdy, one can see that autocratic government was a backbone to the growth and development of these countries. Ghana is also a good representative of the power of autocratic government.
Democracy can't even work in Nigeria now. Corruption has made this very clear. No matter how much we stand in line to vote, we will never see the electorate of our choice sitting on the hot seat. Due to many factors such as-Bribery, cultural superiority complex and many other factors, Nigeria will never be able to practice free and fair elections.
Most Nigerians frown at autocratic rule but it may be the only thing that might save us. I hope some one with the right mind, ideals, beliefs can lead us and help us realize the great people we are. Maybe after a decade or two we can practice civilian rule again and this time get it right.