THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY AND SOCIAL MOVEMENTS IN PROMOTING DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS IN NIGERIA
Abstract
This study examines the role of civil society and social movements in promoting democracy and human rights in Nigeria. It argues that civil society and social movements have been instrumental in challenging authoritarianism, corruption, and violence, and in advancing democratic values and practices in Nigeria. The study draws on historical and contemporary examples of civil society and social movement activism, such as the anti-military campaigns in the 1990s, the #EndSARS protests in 2020, and the ongoing advocacy for transparency and accountability in governance. The study also identifies the opportunities and challenges that civil society and social movements face in their quest for democratic change and human rights protection in Nigeria. It concludes by offering some recommendations on how to strengthen civil society and social movement engagement and impact in Nigeria's democratic development.
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