The National Association of Liberated Tigers (NALT) has cautioned that the holding of periodic elections alone does not amount to genuine democracy, urging African nations to strengthen institutions and practices that safeguard social justice and the rule of law.
The warning came during the 2025 International Convention and Conference of NALT, held in Enugu, Nigeria, under the theme “Social Movement, Social Justice, and the Future of Democracy.” The event brought together NALT leaders, international partners, and advocates of political reform to address the continent’s democratic challenges.
NALT International President, Mr. Obinna Amoke, described Nigeria as “one of the most politically challenged nations in the world,” citing corruption, poverty, rising religiosity, and abuse of incumbency as key obstacles.
“In many countries, especially in Africa, politicians have used the holding of regular elections to claim the existence of democracy, whereas in reality, these countries can be best described as elected autocracies,” Amoke said, stressing that true democracy requires competitive polls, fundamental liberties, and respect for the rule of law.
Dr. Chukwuemeka Eze, Director of Democratic Futures in Africa at Open Society Foundations, underscored the role of social justice as the “lifeblood of democracy.” Warning against Nigeria’s drift toward a one-party system, he urged the National Assembly to adopt deeper reforms to widen political participation.
“While I congratulate the National Assembly for passing the #NotTooYoungToRun bill, I urge them to consider another—#TooOldToRun. This will help open the space for vibrant and intelligent young people to serve the nation at the highest level,” Eze said.
He also raised concerns over dwindling voter turnout, declining party membership, and eroding trust in politicians—challenges he noted are affecting democracies worldwide.
Dr. Obi Nweze, one of NALT’s founding fathers, called on members to uphold the group’s values of truth, peace, and diligence. He announced internal reforms, including the scrapping of zonal representatives and mandatory bi-monthly financial disclosures by all chapters.
The convention also featured a community outreach programme where NALT distributed medical supplies, food, and cash to widows, widowers, and other vulnerable groups.
Hon. Chimaobi Atu, who represents Enugu North/South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, commended the initiative, saying it demonstrated NALT’s mission of “supporting the needy and fostering peace.”
With more than 10,000 members across Nigeria and international chapters spanning America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Canada, NALT reaffirmed its commitment to advancing democratic reforms across Africa.
Chief Cassidy Madueke, the association’s Director of Media and Strategic Communication, said the gathering was a reminder that democracy cannot be reduced to elections alone.
“We are here to deliberate on practical ways of ensuring social justice in the country. This programme is aimed at the downtrodden, widows, widowers, and indigent youths who need the assistance of clubs like NALT to have a better life,” he said.
The Enugu meeting concluded with a rallying call for African nations to look beyond superficial democratic practices and embrace reforms that strengthen accountability, equity, and the rule of law.
