The recent spate of power tussles across Nigeria’s political landscape has revealed troubling cracks in the nation’s democratic framework. From Lagos to Rivers and Osun states, the integrity of governance is being tested, raising concerns about the future of democracy in the country. These political battles, often characterized by manipulation, imposition, and blatant disregard for majority consensus, are setting a dangerous precedent that threatens to undermine the foundations of democratic governance.
The political drama in the Lagos State House of Assembly, involving Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda, highlights a growing trend of internal legislative conflicts. Obasa’s impeachment by an overwhelming majority of lawmakers, followed by his controversial return to power, has not only disrupted legislative functions but also raised questions about the role of party influence in undermining democratic norms.
Similarly, Rivers State has been embroiled in a bitter confrontation between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. The disagreement over control of the state’s political machinery has spilled into public view, with implications for governance and stability in the state.
In Osun State, the protracted battle between Governor Ademola Adeleke and his predecessor, Gboyega Oyetola, has further highlighted how politics is often weaponized for personal or partisan gains. The constant legal wrangling and political posturing have created uncertainty and distracted from governance, leaving the people of the state to bear the brunt.
Politics in Nigeria has increasingly become synonymous with power struggles, coercion, and underhanded tactics. Instead of serving as a platform for public service and societal development, it is often reduced to a stage for personal ambition and desperation. The Houses of Assembly, which should represent the voice of the people and act as a check on executive power, are being undermined by the very individuals tasked with safeguarding democracy.
This disturbing trend is not just an assault on the principle of majority rule; it also reflects a deepening crisis of leadership. When rejected candidates or factions find ways to maneuver into power through questionable means, the legitimacy of the entire system is called into question. These actions send a clear message to the youth and future leaders of Nigeria: that merit, popular support, and democratic norms are secondary to manipulation and imposition.
The ripple effects of these power tussles are far-reaching. First, they erode public confidence in democratic institutions and processes. When leaders emerge through controversial or undemocratic means, citizens are left disillusioned, and the trust deficit between the government and the governed widens.
Second, the ongoing conflicts discourage meaningful youth participation in politics. For a nation where over 60% of the population is under the age of 25, this is a significant concern. The youth, disillusioned by the constant bickering and lack of accountability, may either opt out of politics entirely or embrace the same dirty tactics they see as a pathway to power.
Lastly, these power struggles distract from the critical task of governance. While politicians focus on consolidating their positions, pressing issues such as poverty alleviation, unemployment, infrastructure development, and security are often sidelined.
It is imperative for elder statesmen, political leaders, and other stakeholders in the Nigerian project to step up and address these issues. The political arena must be sanitized to ensure that it reflects the principles of service, accountability, and integrity. Reforms must be introduced to strengthen legislative independence, protect the democratic process, and promote transparency in governance.
Politics should not be a do-or-die affair. It should be a dignified calling aimed at serving humanity and advancing societal progress. Leaders must set an example by prioritizing the nation’s interest over personal ambition and fostering a political culture that inspires hope and trust.
Nigeria remains the only home we have. While many have chosen to leave the country in search of better opportunities, there are still those committed to staying and fixing the systemic challenges we face. To succeed, however, we must address the rot in our political system.
The time for change is now. Nigerians must collectively reject dirty politics and work towards a new era of governance defined by integrity, purpose, and accountability. By doing so, we can rebuild public trust in our institutions, empower the youth to engage in meaningful politics, and set the nation on the path to greatness.
Nigeria’s democracy must not be allowed to fail. Our future depends on it. Let us save our political space and ensure it becomes a model for service, not selfishness.
It is time for Nigeria’s elder statesmen, traditional leaders, and spiritual leaders to rise to the occasion and play their part in restoring the nation’s integrity. The current state of affairs is a disheartening precedent for the coming generation, threatening to undo the dreams of a prosperous and united Nigeria.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must urgently convene a forum of elder statesmen—a gathering of experienced, patriotic minds dedicated to addressing the systemic failures in our political and governance structures. This forum should serve as a platform for honest dialogue, strategic planning, and decisive action to fix Nigeria. Our elder statesmen must use their wisdom and influence to reshape the country’s political landscape into one of fairness, transparency, and service to humanity.
The state of politics today is a discouraging reality for many of us who have spent years working tirelessly to make a positive impact. For people like me, who are genuinely striving to create change, witnessing the rise of individuals who manipulate the system through thuggery and other underhanded means is deeply frustrating. It feels as though our efforts are in vain, as the political system seems to reward impunity while sidelining merit and integrity.
This system is pushing many of us to the brink of despair, forcing some to consider leaving the country entirely. But Nigeria is our home—we cannot abandon it to those who have no regard for its future. It is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain hope, as we continue to struggle to survive and thrive in a system that appears determined to stifle progress.
To the elder statesmen and leaders of thought in this nation: you bear a duty to clean up this mess and ensure that Nigeria does not lose its brightest minds to frustration or disillusionment. Your intervention is crucial to save politics from descending into chaos and to give the youth a reason to believe in the future of this country.
This is the time to act. Let us not allow history to remember us as the generation that let Nigeria slip into ruin. Together, we can build a nation where merit, hard work, and patriotism are rewarded, and where politics is not a dirty game but a noble endeavor to serve humanity. Let us save Nigeria for the sake of the generations to come.
By Dr. Tofunmi Ogunronbi (DTO) : a former gubernatorial candidate.
