Challenges and Prospects of Liberal Democracy in West Africa: A Comparative Assessment of Benin, Ghana and Nigeria

The bitter lessons of history have taught West Africa that there are no longer respectable alternatives to democracy after the collapse of communism. Nonetheless, governance in West Africa in the 21st century remains the greatest problem there because illiberal democracies seem to be gaining legitimacy because they are reasonably democratic. Such illiberal democratic governments, if not exposed, will continue to plunge the subregion into a vicious cycle of semi-authoritarian rule that does not promote economic prosperity. This thesis examines the challenges and prospects of a liberal democratic system of governance in West Africa through a comparative assessment of Benin, Ghana, and Nigeria. The thesis argues that although other attributes of liberal democracies are important, the environment in West Africa calls for a political system marked by guaranteed safety and security, respect for the rule of law and human rights, free and fair elections, a vibrant civil society, and a system of transparency and accountability within the subregion. This is the best way to ensure a reversal to the cycle of political instability and poverty that has characterized West Africa for decades.