A Call for Accountability in Nigerian Politics
Ahead of the 2023 elections, I expressed a strong stance against voting for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as an act of self-betrayal. My argument was that unless one truly despises themselves or is a masochist, the same treatment that was inflicted on the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in 2015 should now be applied to the APC.
Both parties were characterized as “cynical, conniving, political parties that lack honor, patriotism, or value.” While I acknowledged that who one votes for is their personal choice, I emphasized that neither APC nor PDP can be a viable option for Nigerians seeking a better future. Instead, they should be treated as tools of resistance, a means to bring about change and hold them accountable.
I urged voters to reject the APC as an affliction, highlighting that anyone opposing this view is either part of the problem or in need of intervention. The message was clear: if you do not wish for your future to be filled with hopelessness, endless pain, and desperation, then you must reject the APC and demand accountability from its leaders.
Unfortunately, the APC managed to retain power through the use of incumbency, fulfilling my fears of Nigeria descending into misery and strife. Since then, the party has focused on ensuring that the country’s decline continues unchecked.
Recent Events Highlighting Governance Failures
The recent events in Nigeria have only reinforced these concerns. Last week alone, several alarming incidents occurred:
- Massacres in Plateau State: Members of the Angwan Rukuba community were brutally killed on Palm Sunday.
- New $6bn Loan: Within a few hours, the government approved a new $6bn loan, significantly increasing Nigeria’s total debt stock to N155.1 trillion.
- Political Turmoil: The APC attempted to undermine the Action Democratic Party (ADC). Following the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s decision to delist the ADC leadership, concerns emerged about the potential compromise of INEC Chairman Joash.
Professor Chidi Odinkalu, a respected legal expert, revealed the existence of a pre-signed resignation letter by Amupitan, which may be used against him by the presidency. This revelation raises serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process.
Despite my reservations about David Mark’s leadership, no Nigerian deserves such treatment simply because they are not aligned with the APC. It is important to note that Amupitan had not denied signing the letter, which severely damages his credibility and the prospects for the 2027 elections.
The $6bn Loan Controversy
The approval of the $6bn loan highlights the deepening issues within the Nigerian government. Despite the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, previously expressing caution about borrowing, the Senate quickly approved the request. This behavior exemplifies what I have termed Nigeria’s “circular games,” where the government continues to engage in questionable financial practices without regard for the long-term consequences.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, appears to be complicit in this process, allowing the president to push forward his agenda without challenge. This dynamic underscores the lack of accountability and transparency in the current administration.
The Plateau State Terrorist Attacks
The terrorist attacks in Plateau State further illustrate the government’s failure to address the growing security crisis. President Tinubu’s visit to Jos, the state capital, was met with criticism for being insincere and dismissive of the grieving families. Instead of visiting the affected communities, he had the bereaved families brought to him at the airport.
Tinubu’s remarks about the lack of electricity at the airport were met with skepticism, especially given his previous promises to improve infrastructure. His brief visit did little to address the real concerns of the people, and his subsequent statements about finding the killers were seen as hollow and unconvincing.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser, attempted to justify Tinubu’s actions, but his explanation failed to resonate with the public. The visit to Jos was widely perceived as a political maneuver rather than a genuine effort to support the victims.
A Question of Priorities
Tinubu’s decision to attend a Christian holiday event in Lagos while neglecting the needs of the people in Plateau State raised further questions about his priorities. As a Muslim leader, his presence at a Christian event highlighted the disconnect between his actions and the realities faced by many Nigerians.
The lack of meaningful engagement with the communities affected by terrorism and insecurity has led to widespread disillusionment. Many Nigerians feel that their government is more concerned with political optics than with addressing the pressing issues facing the nation.
The Need for Change
As the temptations of this deformed democracy become increasingly evident, the question remains: will Tinubu look, or look away? The current trajectory of the APC government suggests that without significant changes, the challenges facing Nigeria will only continue to grow.
