2025-03-26https://repository.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/handle/123456789/30831This article presents a synergy between democracy and development in Nigeria with specific reference to Oyo State between 2003 and 2010 using leadership as a connecting factor. The main purpose is to interrogate the role of leadership in bringing about development in democratic governance. The article argues that, although development is often linked with democratic governance, however, the reverse is the case in Oyo state because of leadership corruption. It therefore, suggests the need to overhaul the entire electoral process so as to provide convenient platform for the emergence of visionary, effective, selfless, dynamic and people-oriented leaders to take over power.application/pdfJA Political science (General), JZ International relationsArticle