Democracy from Below: The CDD and Civil Oversight Practices in Nigeria’s Political System

Abstract

This paper examines the role of the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) as a non -state actor performing a civil co-oversight function over the Nigerian government, and its relevance within the context of international relations. CDD is a civil society organization focused on strengthening democracy, governance, and sustainable development. Through policy research, advocacy, anticorruption campaigns, and election monitoring, CDD seeks to expand public participation and enhance state accountability. From an international relations perspective, CDD’s role reflects the involvement of non-state actors in global efforts to promote democracy and public oversight in the fulfillment of civil rights. This study also explores the dynamics of civil participation in Nigeria, which faces serious challenges, particularly in the security sector marked by internal conflict and terrorism. Using a qualitative approach based on literature review and secondary data analysis, this paper aims to assess the effectiveness of CDD as a civil co-oversight mechanism in governance and its implications for domestic stability and regional security. The analysis suggests that while CDD plays a significant role in promoting transparency, political and security constraints within Nigeria continue to limit its impact. These findings open up broader discussions about the contribution of civil society in the international system and how local democratic practices are closely linked to global governance structures.