Of Dancing Python And Smiling Crocodile

The struggle against military rule was sustained by the hope of democracy, bringing peace and security to the people and sending the soldiers back to the barracks where they belonged. However, two decades into the democratic order, the Nigerian people continually witness military boots around them, coming under different operational names in 30 out of the 36 states of the country. The massive deployment of the military in a country under democratic rule presents a paradox that warrants interrogation. The study identifies the reasons and consequences of such deployment on the citizens and the practice of democracy in the country.