Skeptics Wait for Deeds After Words of Democracy in Nigeria

Government critics said Tuesday that the nation’s president must turn encouraging promises of a transition to democracy into action.

In a televised address, Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar pledged Monday to end military rule in Africa’s most populous nation and announced presidential elections for early next year. He promised a return to civilian government in May.

“We need to match these words with action,” said human rights lawyer Clement Nwankwo.

Others were even more skeptical.

“This new transition program will fail; it will not lead anywhere,” said Gani Fawehinmi, a Lagos lawyer and a leader of the Joint Action Committee on Nigeria. He noted that Abubakar did not repeal a law that gives the government the right to arrest people without charge.

Abubakar, who came to power six weeks ago after the death of Gen. Sani Abacha, said he will lay the foundation of a truly representative government.

The military leader disbanded the national electoral commission, canceled the results of elections conducted during the Abacha years, dissolved all five government-sanctioned political parties and said he will give independence to the judiciary.

A former presidential candidate took advantage of Abubakar’s announcement and said Tuesday that he is forming a new political party. Tunji Braithwaite said the Democratic Advanced Movement will focus on ensuring that the rule of law is upheld and will push for better housing and improved schools.

Braithwaite withdrew as a possible presidential contender earlier this year, saying the process was rigged in Abacha’s favor. All five parties, including his, eventually nominated Abacha.

Nigeria became all but unlivable during Abacha’s five-year dictatorship, when the country crumbled under the weight of rampant corruption and neglect.

“Let them actually privatize telephone and electricity” service, said Titus Onye, who sells bread in Lagos. “If they can do that, life will be better for all.”

Then he added, “Especially if they keep the promise to hand over power next year.”