The basic features of a democratic state include:
(i) A democratic state holds periodic elections to elect representatives into the various legislative houses.
(ii) It provides equal opportunity for citizens to participate in the decisions of the government.
(iii) Under democratic dispensation, fundamental human rights are guaranteed.
(iv) The rights of the minority are also guaranteed.
(v) Free and fair elections are conducted by creating an independent electoral commission which updates the electoral register, conducts election through secret ballot etc. In Nigeria, this is presently done by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
(vi) There is the formation of political parties in a democratic state.
(vii) There is the existence of opposition party to serve as a watchdog of the government.
(viii)There is an independent judiciary.
(ix)In a democratic state there is the rule of law.
(x)The franchise is open to all on the basis of universal adult suffrage.
(xi) There is provision of special procedures to amend parts of the constitution, e.g. creation of new states, impeachment of the president etc.
(xii) There is the supremacy of the constitution.
(xiii) There is the freedom of expression and the existence of a free press.