According to MacMillan Dictionary; 1. Democracy is a system of government in which people choose their representatives in elections. 2. A Country that has Democracy. 3. A way of Running an organization in which everyone can share in making decisions.

In layman's terms, democracy is a form of government that belongs to the people by the people and to the people.
Democracy as the name implies is a form of government that is composed of ideals and principles. These ideals are the very Ingredients that makes it different from other forms of government. Some of these principles are:

1. Freedom of Speech.
2. Freedom of Association.
3. Equality before the law.

These are the very principles that makes up the Soul and Heart of democracy. Take them away and democracy ceases to exist.
Democracy is different from other forms of government because every individual is guaranteed to right to air his/her views regarding matters that affects him/her and the society at large. It is a form of government that guarantees Individual Freedom to Think, Worship, and Organise his/her lives the way he/she wants it without any provocation and limitations. These and more are the beauties that separates democracy and other forms of government as the Best System Of Government.

Despite the fact that Nigeria operates a democratic form of government since 1999, events lately puts shadows on my mind on whether all Nigerians, after 16 years of democratic rule fully understood the grip and principles of democracy. If we do, then I see no reason why AIT should be attacked for airing a sponsored program on its station, which by the way is one of the Cardinal principles of democracy; Freedom of Speech and Expression. Why will anyone attack a media house for airing a sponsored program? Don't individuals have right to air their views through TV stations? Aren't we all using the media to air our political agenda? Is it because the information therein was false or is it because we choose to be intolerant? Is our definition of democracy about freedom of individuals to think and air their views or simply about forcing our own will on others who have contrary views? If the latter is the case, then am right. Nigerians don't yet fully understand the meaning of democracy.

If we define democracy based on our selfish aim because it suits us but castigate others because it puts a dent on our image then we do not understand democracy. If we try to force our will on others because of their contrary opinion, then we still don't understand democracy. If some will go out of their way to spread information through mass media about a particular candidate and be happy about it but will raise Tantrums and Brimstone when others do same against their preferred candidate then am afraid we're very far from practicing true ideals of democracy. If we define democracy to be government for the few who are seen to be Untouchable and Above the Law in the society then we have no idea what democracy is all about. Because if we do, then we will realize that in the eyes of the law as far as True Democratic Principles is Concerned, We are all Equal People and Citizens below the Law with Equal Rights For Association and Expression We mustn't forget that in practical principles of democracy; What is good for the goose is also good for the gander.
There's a big difference between democracy and military rule. In democracy, all individuals are allowed to express themselves through whatever media possible devoid of harassment and intimidation.


Note: My Opinion.