Executive-legislative relations and its impacts on democratic governance in Nigeria's Fourth Republic (1999-2019)

Government institutions, like the legislature and the executive in a presidential democracy, stand as pillars for good governance and service delivery. Following the long period of military rule in West Africa and Nigeria in particular, scholarly studies on the pattern of relations between these pillars of democracy and their impact on democratic governance, are limited. Even in the 1990s when democracy resurfaced and renewed interest in studying the pattern of relations between the institutions and its impact on governance, few empirical studies were done in Nigeria in this regard. Therefore, this study examined the pattern of relations between the legislature and the executive in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and its impact on democratic governance between 1999-2019. It relied on qualitative research methods to generate and analyze data. A purposive sampling technique was adopted, and primary data were generated through a semistructured in-depth face-to-face interview. Secondary data were gathered from archival sources, textbooks, and journal articles. In gathering the primary data, 15 respondents from the legislature, executive, civil society organizations, media and academics were interviewed. The theory of separation of powers founded by Montesquieu (1748) was adopted to examine the pattern of relations. Interpretivist research instrument was adopted for a better explanation of the situation. The study found that the pattern of relations between the institutions was not cordial as they were often enmeshed in various crisis. This arises from the executive attempts to dominate and interfere in the leadership of the legislature as well as disregard for the institution and its constitutional roles. Consequently, it negatively impacted the delivery of democratic dividends and good governance to the people. It also revealed significant corruption and selfish interest on the part of the institutions. Nevertheless, the institutions may be consolidated under a democratic rule, through enlightening the institutions on their jurisdictions. Implementing democracy in the system involves a continuous learning process. The study suggests adherence to their institutional jurisdictions which is achievable through the genuine practice of separation of power which provides for checks and balances. The promotion of lobby, tolerance, informal interaction, and the consideration of national interest should be prioritized. This will engender better relations and the delivery of democratic dividends to the average Nigerians