Nartey, E.K (2025) 'From colonialism to citizen engagement: reforming legislative processes in Nigeria and Ghana.' The Loophole. (Forthcoming)
Abstract
This article offers a critical and philosophical exploration of the legislative processes in Nigeria and Ghana, focusing on the enduring imprint of colonialism on their political and legal architectures. It examines the ways in which colonial frameworks shaped governance structures, fostering centralised, hierarchical systems that have alienated citizens and disrupted indigenous mechanisms of self-rule. This colonial legacy has not only severed the connection between legislators and the communities they represent, but it has also undermined the inclusivity and efficacy of the law-making process in both nations. By imposing foreign legislative systems, colonial rule marginalised traditional governance practices, many of which were rooted in consensus-building and communal engagement. The result is a legal order that prioritises top-down governance, often at the expense of local realities and the aspirations of the broader populace. This disconnect continues to manifest in the rigidity of modern legislative frameworks, which struggle to respond to the complex socio-political dynamics of post-colonial societies. The article argues that to overcome these limitations, substantive reforms are necessary. These should include a reintegration of pre-colonial governance systems that were attuned to local needs and priorities, alongside a renewed focus on community participation in the legislative process. This would involve not only increasing the capacity of legislators through development programmes, but also leveraging modern technologies to foster transparency, enhance citizen engagement, and bridge the gap between lawmakers and the public. Furthermore, the article calls for a comprehensive review of outdated legislative frameworks, which remain entrenched in colonial-era structures that no longer reflect contemporary socio-political realities. Such reforms would seek to promote inclusivity, ensuring that law-making processes are more representative of and responsive to the communities they serve. In this light, the article offers a re-imagining of governance that moves beyond the constraints of colonial legacies, advocating for systems that are rooted in ethical principles, local traditions, and the democratic aspirations of the people.
| Item Type: | Article |
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| Divisions: | Bath Business School |
| Related URLs: | |
| Date Deposited: | 19 Dec 2024 10:58 |
| Last Modified: | 19 Dec 2024 10:58 |
| URI / Page ID: | https://researchspace.bathspa.ac.uk/id/eprint/16763 |
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