RULE OF LAW AND GOOD GOVERNANCE IN NIGERIA: MYTH OR REALITY

Abstract

Nigeria has suffered a governance crisis in recent times. Inflation is on the high side and the provision of adequate infrastructure and public utilities is in a state of near collapse. The constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 makes provisions for good governance in sections 4, 5, 6, and Chapter II, IV, in terms of separation of powers, fundamental principles of state objectives, and entrenched inalienable human rights. Nigeria has a plethora of good laws at both Federal and State levels of government. These provisions in the laws barely reflect the quality and standard of living of its citizens. This paper examines the rationale for the failure of rule of law in giving Nigerian citizens good governance. The problem question is how can constitutionalism birth better governance in Nigeria and what factors inhibit the rule of law vis-à-vis constitutionalism toward good governance in Nigeria. The paper adopts the doctrinal methodology by examining statutory provisions, case laws and the opinion of other authors on the subject of discourse. The paper ends with recommendations on how to ensure good governance do not remain a myth but a reality in Nigeria.