RULE OF LAW AND GOOD GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PRESIDENT OLUSEGUN OBASANJO AND JONATHAN ADMINISTRATIONS, (1999–2015)

Abstract

The administrations of Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Dr Good luck Jonathan in Nigeria marked significant strides towards the establishment of the rule of law and the promotion of good governance. One of the problems militating against good governance and rule of law in the Nigerian state is corruption, however, they also underscored the complexities of these tasks. The study therefore, analyses the initiatives undertaken by these two administrations to combat corruption, insecurity challenges, and policy reforms aimed at enhancing governance and the rule of law. For understanding the relationship between the rule of law and good governance Neo institutionalism was used as the theoretical framework. Furthermore, this study was underpinned by a qualitative research design, which is well-suited for exploring and understanding complex phenomena such as the interplay between the rule of law and good governance in Nigeria. The study revealed that Obasanjo's tenure marked the end of military rule and prioritized anti-corruption efforts with the creation of dedicated institutions such as the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corruption Practice Commission (ICPC). However, public trust was undermined due to allegations of selective enforcement. Meanwhile, Jonathan's administration saw the enactment of the Freedom of Information Act and a commitment to electoral reform, contributing to improved transparency and democratic consolidation, nonetheless, his era grappled with persistent corruption and security threats, which hampered governance efforts. Both administrations faced formidable security challenges, particularly the Boko Haram insurgency, herdsmen, kidnapping and illegal refineries perpetrated by the pockets of regional agitators in the Niger Delta areas. Despite efforts, they were unable to fully resolve the crisis, pointing to the inherent complexities of dealing with issues of social and economic disparity, and political disenfranchisement. The study highlights the necessity of an integrated approach to promote the rule of law and good governance, one that considers not just institutional and legal factors, but also the socio-economic and political dynamics underpinning these challenges. Furthermore, it underscores the need for strengthened anti-corruption means of neoinstitutionalism security responses, and a more holistic approach to governance reform in Nigeria. This approach should encompass increased government transparency, enhanced civic participation, economic diversification, and equitable resource distribution, among other things. Despite the significant strides made under these administrations, the pervading challenges require further research and effective policy development in this area.