The Nature of Democratic Governance and Socio-Economic Development in Plateau State From 1999-2023

Nwanan Mundi Shikle Ph.D

doi:10.56201/jpslr.vol.12.no7.2026.pg37.42

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The Nature of Democratic Governance and Socio-Economic Development in Plateau State From 1999-2023

Nwanan Mundi Shikle Ph.D

Abstract

Since the return to democratic rule in Nigeria in 1999, Plateau state has practiced democratic governance through periodic elections, separation of powers, rule of law and civil liberties. However, despite 24 years of democratic practice, Plateau State continues to experience high poverty, unemployment, poor infrastructure, weak healthcare, education deficits and persistence insecurity. This contradiction raises question of why democratic governance has fail to deliver development in the state. This article therefore examined the nature of democratic governance and socio-economic development in Plateau State from 1999-2023.The study adopted elite theory as its theoretical framework. Descriptive survey research design was used. Data were obtained from both primary and secondary sources. The study found that democratic governance in Plateau State is characterized by formal institutions but weak in practice. The nature of democratic governance in Plateau State comprising a weak PLASIEC and executive dominance of the House of Assembly corruption and elite capture. The article conclude that the problem is not the absent of democratic governance but the nature of challenges that have made democracy in effective in delivery development. The article recommends strengthening PLASIEC and legislative oversight, addressing insecurity through peace building, fighting corruption through transparency promoting inclusive politics, improving IGR and investing in human capital and infrastructures. Key Words: Democracy, Governance, Socio-Economic, Elite Theory.

Keywords

DemocracyGovernanceSocio-EconomicElite Theory.

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The Nature of Democratic Governance and Socio-Economic Development in Plateau State From 1999-2023

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