The Grace Uzoma Okonkwo Foundation (GUOF) says liberal democracy as practised in Africa has some defects because respect for the rule of law is not given priority.
Prof Florence Orabueze, the Founder of GUOF, said this at Nsukka on Thursday while briefing newsmen on the forthcoming 4th international conference of the foundation.
Orabueze, the former Director, Institute of African Studies (IAS), University of Nigeria, Nsukka, established the foundation in memory of her late mother, Mrs Grace Uzoma Okonkwo, a lover of peace and education.
The title of this year’s conference is “Democracy and the Rule of Law in 21st Century Africa: A Multidisciplinary Reflection.”
Orabueze said scholars from different universities across the country would interrogate and find out if what is practised in Africa is really liberal democracy.
“Respect for the Rule of law is the backbone of liberal democracy in developed countries, but the critical question is why democracy practised in Africa does not respect the rule of law.
“These scholars from different universities and disciplines will interrogate and provide answers why democracy practised in Africa is not the same with that of developed countries of the world,” she said.
She said the event was organised by GUOF in collaboration with the department of English, Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Anambra State.
According to Orabueze, Prof Aloysius Okolie, the Vice-Chancellor, Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), would be the keynote speaker.
The former Director, IAS, said that Prof. Gaji Dantata of the Faculty of Education, Bayero University, Kano, would be among lead paper presenters.
She disclosed that the opening ceremony of the three-day conference would be on May 11 at Jerry Marriott Hotel, Nsukka, and would be chaired by Dr Nnia Nwodo, former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
The founder of GUOK also disclosed that, Prof Greg Nwakoby, Vice-Chancellor, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Anambra State, would be the Chief Host.
While UNN Emeritus Professor, Prof El Anatusi would be Special Guest of Honour and Igwe George Asadu, Traditional Ruler of Ihe-Owerre Nsukka community, would be royal father of the day.
Orabueze said that some distinguished Nigerians, who have done much to ensure peace and unity in the country, would be conferred with Pillar of Peace award during the conference.
Speaking, the Secretary, Local Organising Committee (LOC), Dr Uche Okonkwo, said the committee was working round the clock to ensure that scholars and dignitaries expected were present during the event.
Okonkwo said the outcome of the conference would make the public to know what is really wrong with democratic governments in Africa and how to change the narrative (NAN)
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