The Political Landscape in Nigeria: A Call for Accountability
Ahead of the 2023 elections, I expressed a strong opinion that voting for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was an act of self-betrayal. My reasoning was clear: "Unless you truly hate yourself or you are a masochist, it is obvious that the same treatment that was applied to PDP in 2015 must now apply to APC," I stated. I described both parties as "cynical, conniving, political parties that lack honor, patriotism, or value."
"Clearly, who you vote for is your business," I wrote. "But unless you wish yourself at least another generation of swimming in sewage, neither APC nor PDP can be your option in 2023. Instead, use them as a cudgel or a curse. Save yourself."
I urged people to reject the APC and PDP, stating that the only destination for these parties should be powerlessness, not more power. "Because unless your prayer for your future is hopelessness, endless pain and desperation, you must reject APC like an affliction, which it has proved to be. Anyone who objects to this is either part of the affliction or needs treatment… Unless you curse yourself, you must hold them accountable. Or hold yourself responsible."
Unfortunately, the APC used its incumbency advantage to retain power, fulfilling my fears about Nigeria descending into misery and strife. Since then, the party has worked to ensure the country decays thoroughly beyond recognition.
Recent Events Highlighting the Crisis
How is this working out for Nigerians? Let's look at some recent events:
- Massacres in Plateau State: Members of the Angwan Rukuba community were massacred on Palm Sunday.
- New $6bn Loan: The government quickly approved a new $6bn loan, elevating Nigeria’s total debt stock to N155.1 trillion.
- Political Maneuvers: The APC tried to decapitate the ADC, with concerns emerging that the INEC Chairman may have been compromised.
- Resignation Letter Controversy: Professor Chidi Odinkalu revealed the existence of a pre-signed resignation letter by Amupitan, suggesting he might have been coerced.
Despite my reservations about David Mark, no Nigerian deserves such treatment just because they are not aligned with the APC. It is important to note that Amupitan had not denied signing the letter, which damages his credibility and that of the 2027 elections.
The Role of the Electoral Commission
The electoral commission, INEC, has faced scrutiny after its decision to delist the ADC leadership. This raises questions about the integrity of the electoral process. When Amupitan talks about "free, fair and credible elections," it seems like speaking in tongues. To play the spectator is to be complicit.
The $6bn Loan: A Concerning Trend
In less than four hours on Wednesday, President Tinubu received Senate approval for a $6bn loan, despite previous caution from the Minister of Finance. This behavior exemplifies what I have called Nigeria’s circular games, where promises are made but not kept. Every time Tinubu wants to make a move, the Senate appears ready to support him.
The Plateau State Terrorist Attacks
President Tinubu's visit to Jos, the capital of Plateau State, was marked by controversy. He visited the bereaved families rather than going to them, highlighting a lack of empathy. His statement about the airport lacking electricity was met with skepticism, especially given his history of making similar promises that never materialized.
Tinubu's oratory lacked substance, and his lack of commitment to addressing insecurity was evident. Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser, attempted to justify the unjustifiable, further damaging the president's credibility.
A Missed Opportunity for Leadership
Tinubu's visit to Jos was an insult to the grieving families and to Nigerians dealing with insecurity nationwide. There was no explanation for a 10-minute, at-the-airport reception for a community he should have been visiting. Similarly, his trip to the United Kingdom during a time of crisis in Maiduguri was seen as inappropriate.
Tinubu could have spent time in Jos, but instead, he chose to participate in a Christian holiday in Lagos. This raised questions about his priorities and commitment to the people of Nigeria.
The Temptations of Deformed Democracy
The temptations of this deformed democracy are evident. Will Tinubu look, or look away? The actions of the APC and its leaders continue to raise concerns about the future of Nigerian democracy. As the nation grapples with these challenges, the need for accountability and genuine leadership becomes increasingly urgent.