A SOCIETY comprises a mix of good, bad, and everything in between. Even in religious gatherings, there’s no guarantee all congregants are virtuous. As Jesus noted: “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.” No religious group claims its members are all saints.
Every gathering of people in any political sphere is a blend of the good, bad, and everything in between. This diverse mix is reflected in bourgeois political formations, as well as in socialist, welfare, monarchical, and even theocratic systems.
The defection of several state governors to APC and the recent endorsement of Tinubu by former legislators for 2027 have further constrained the political space. Opposition parties have faced significant challenges, with PDP’s decline, Labour Party’s struggles, and NNPP’s fragmentation. This lack of competition threatens the very essence of democracy. Without robust opposition, democracy loses its flavour and vitality.
We must learn to interact with all kinds of people. When a society produces undesirable elements, our response should differ from when it produces good ones. The fact remains that an ecosystem dominated by predators will inevitably collapse.
ALSO READ: Bursting Nigeria’s 60-Year Coup Myths With Nuclear-Headed Missiles; By Owei Lakemfa
The impact of a good person is always more lasting. Consider the contrasting mindsets of two Nigerian leaders. Former President Goodluck Jonathan once said his ambition wasn’t worth the blood of anyone. In contrast, Muhammadu Buhari, then an opposition leader, made a provocative statement in 2012 regarding the 2015 election, suggesting violence if his concerns weren’t addressed. These two leaders exemplify different approaches to politics and leadership.
President Olusegun Obasanjo’s leadership exemplified national unity and inclusivity. Despite the crucial role Yorubas played in his 1999 presidency, particularly due to the perceived injustice against Chief MKO Abiola, the June 12th election winner, Obasanjo prioritised national healing and cohesion. His appointments and projects allocation reflected a national character, free from bias.
In contrast, the same cannot be said about Tinubu whose approach has been different, prioritising Yoruba interests and appointing largely from his own group. These two leaders from similar economic backgrounds demonstrate distinct approaches: one driven by nationalism, the other by tribalism.
ALSO READ: Iran, Beware The Fangs Of January, The Scourge Of February, The Ides Of March; By Hassan Gimba (1)
The importance of a good leader, one who has verifiable records, cannot be overstated in any polity. In Nigeria’s current situation, the ideological background of such a leader may be secondary to their ability to positively impact the nation.
What we need is a statesman who can organically mend our fractured relationships and foster national cohesion and integration. This leader should view himself as a custodian of the state and its institutions, prioritising the duty to serve all citizens, rather than exploiting their position for personal or ethnic gain.
Leadership is about guiding people in the right direction for the greater good. A true leader serves as a positive influence, transcending personal biases, ethnicities, and individual followers. The United States, a benchmark for democracy, has had its share of exemplary leaders. Despite facing challenges and imperfect leadership, America’s commitment to democratic values has given rise to iconic figures like Abraham Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, George Washington, and Theodore Roosevelt. These leaders have left an indelible mark on American politics, navigating the nation through crises, redefining the presidency, and establishing lasting precedents that continue to shape the country’s democratic, economic, and social landscape.
ALSO READ: Framing A Political Philosophy For Nigeria; By Jibrin Ibrahim
Nigeria’s path to freedom seems increasingly distant as the political landscape shrinks alarmingly. The current administration appears dominated by individuals from the president’s ethnic group, holding key positions.
Given the current National Assembly’s track record of blind loyalty to the president since 2023, coupled with the defections and endorsements from various groups, including the latest from associations of former legislators, Tinubu could potentially secure a third term after 2031 if he wishes. History would then record him as the president who prioritised power over the people’s welfare, leaving them in hardship.
The defection of several state governors to APC and the recent endorsement of Tinubu by former legislators for 2027 have further constrained the political space. Opposition parties have faced significant challenges, with PDP’s decline, Labour Party’s struggles, and NNPP’s fragmentation. This lack of competition threatens the very essence of democracy. Without robust opposition, democracy loses its flavour and vitality.
ALSO READ: 15th January And The Gamjiphobia Of Northern Political Elites; By Aminu Habibu Jahun
How Nigeria’s Political Class Enriched Themselves While The Masses Starved; By Lawan Musa Danlami
Declaring support for a political candidate based on their performance is a legitimate stance. However, the old politics of pecuniary influence still dominates. Given the current economic hardship, it’s understandable that financial incentives might be the only currency that can secure access to power for APC in 2027. The current administration’s economic policies have exacerbated the nation’s suffering, leaving little reason for enthusiasm or support.
Peter Obi represents a glimmer of hope for Nigeria’s struggling masses in 2027. Despite attempts to undermine him through artificial crises in the Labour Party, his organic influence continues to grow.
Obi’s clear vision for addressing the nation’s problems, commitment to due process, and impeccable track record on corruption set him apart. As someone who has built his wealth through honest labour and has no history of personal corruption, he embodies the change Nigeria needs.
His welfare-oriented approach and detribalised leadership style make a strong case for his potential to drive meaningful reform.
If APC and Tinubu return to power in 2027, Nigeria risks sliding into a one-party state, paving the way for dictatorship. This could lead to a sit-tight situation or worse, with Tinubu calling the shots.
Given the current National Assembly’s track record of blind loyalty to the president since 2023, coupled with the defections and endorsements from various groups, including the latest from associations of former legislators, Tinubu could potentially secure a third term after 2031 if he wishes. History would then record him as the president who prioritised power over the people’s welfare, leaving them in hardship.
Comrade Amechi is a Lagos-based trade union activist and pro-democracy advocate.
