In a country where corruption is a culture, the citizens are bound to endless cries, confusions, complications, controversies, and conflicts. Beloved, beware of vultures. Since gaining independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, Nigeria has struggled with leadership challenges that have significantly impacted its development. Over the decades, the nation has experienced military coups, civil unrest, economic downturns, and corruption scandals, all of which have been linked to poor leadership. 

This article examines the historical trajectory of Nigeria's glittering failure of leadership from 1960 to the present, highlighting key events and their consequences. Too much may not be enough, but it’s high time we put an end to this jungle leadership, where politicians are predators and people are preys. Despite mythical claims of having nine lives, cats still die.

The Early Years: 1960-1966

Nigeria's initial years of independence were marked by high hopes and expectations. The first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, led a coalition government with Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe as the first President. However, regional tensions and ethnic divisions, particularly between the Hausa-Fulani in the north, the Yoruba in the west, and the Igbo in the east, began to surface. The inability to manage these divisions led to political instability. In January 1966, the first military coup occurred, resulting in the assassination of Balewa and other political leaders.

The Military Era: 1966-1979

The military era began with Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, who was soon overthrown and killed in a counter-coup led by General Yakubu Gowon. Gowon's tenure was marked by the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), also known as the Biafran War, which resulted in significant loss of life and economic disruption. Despite attempts at reconciliation post-war, corruption and mismanagement continued.

In 1975, another coup brought General Murtala Mohammed to power, whose promising reforms were cut short by his assassination. His successor, General Olusegun Obasanjo, eventually handed over power to a civilian government in 1979, marking a brief return to democracy.

The Second Republic and Further Military Rule: 1979-1999

The Second Republic, led by President Shehu Shagari, was short-lived due to economic mismanagement and corruption. In 1983, another military coup brought General Muhammadu Buhari to power. His regime, known for its strict anti-corruption stance, was itself overthrown in 1985 by General Ibrahim Babangida.

Babangida's tenure was characterized by economic reforms under the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP), which had mixed results. His annulment of the 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as fair and won by Moshood Abiola, led to political unrest and his eventual resignation.

General Sani Abacha's subsequent regime (1993-1998) was marked by human rights abuses and severe corruption. Abacha's sudden death in 1998 paved the way for a transition to democracy.

The Fourth Republic: 1999-Present

The Fourth Republic began in 1999 with the election of Olusegun Obasanjo as president. Obasanjo's administration made some progress in economic reforms and anti-corruption efforts, yet corruption remained pervasive. His attempt to extend his tenure beyond the constitutional limit was met with public resistance.

His successor, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, took office in 2007 but his tenure was cut short by illness and his eventual death in 2010. Vice President Goodluck Jonathan assumed the presidency, winning the 2011 election. Jonathan's administration faced significant challenges, including the Boko Haram insurgency and widespread corruption scandals.

In 2015, Muhammadu Buhari, a former military ruler, was elected president, marking the first time an incumbent president was defeated in Nigeria. Buhari's administration has been focused on anti-corruption, economic diversification, and combating insurgency. However, issues like economic recession, insecurity, and accusations of human rights violations have persisted.

Currently, we are in the second year in office of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who took over power in 2023. Everyone and Everything are in difficulty, both the rich and the poor are in sufferable situation. From bad to worse, now we in the worst.

The Glittering Failure of Leadership and Challenges Facing Citizens: 1960 - 2024

Corruption: Corruption has been a pervasive issue, with numerous scandals involving high-ranking officials. The lack of accountability has undermined public trust and hindered economic development.

Ethnic and Regional Divisions: Nigeria's diversity has often been a source of division rather than strength. Leaders have struggled to manage ethnic and regional tensions, which have sometimes escalated into violence.

Economic Mismanagement: Despite being rich in natural resources, Nigeria's economy has suffered from poor management. Policies have often been inconsistent, and there has been a failure to invest adequately in infrastructure and human capital.

Security Issues: Insurgency, banditry, and other forms of violence have plagued the nation. The inability to provide security has affected economic activities and the overall quality of life.

Governance and Rule of Law: Weak institutions and the lack of adherence to the rule of law have undermined governance. Efforts to strengthen democratic institutions have often been half-hearted and poorly implemented.

Corrupt Citizens in a Corrupt Country: Complicated Complications

Corruption remains one of the most critical issues facing Nigeria today. It is deeply ingrained in various sectors of society and has far-reaching consequences for the nation's development and governance. Addressing corruption in Nigeria requires a comprehensive understanding of its problems, consequences, and potential solutions.

Problems of Corruption in Nigeria and the Fear of the Future: 2024 – When?

Political Corruption: Political corruption is prevalent in Nigeria, with politicians and public officials often engaging in bribery, embezzlement, and nepotism. This undermines the democratic process, as elections can be influenced by corrupt practices, leading to the election of leaders who do not represent the people's will.

Economic Corruption: Economic corruption involves the misappropriation of public funds and resources. It results in the diversion of funds meant for development projects into private accounts, leading to inadequate infrastructure, poor public services, and stunted economic growth.

Judicial Corruption: Corruption within the judiciary compromises the rule of law and justice. Bribery and manipulation of legal processes result in biased judgments, undermining public trust in the legal system and allowing criminals to escape justice.

Institutional Corruption: Corruption is rampant in many Nigerian institutions, including law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. This erodes the efficiency and effectiveness of these institutions, affecting service delivery and public welfare.

THE CONSEQUENCES OF CORRUPTION AND THE FATE OF THE COUNTRY AND HER CITIZENS 

Economic Consequences: Corruption hampers economic development by deterring investment, increasing the cost of doing business, and reducing the efficiency of public spending. It leads to a lack of infrastructure, poor healthcare, and inadequate education systems, perpetuating poverty and inequality.

Social Consequences: Corruption breeds social discontent and distrust in the government. It exacerbates social inequalities, as resources meant for public welfare are siphoned off by a few individuals. This can lead to increased crime rates and social unrest.

Political Consequences: Corruption weakens democratic institutions and processes. It undermines the legitimacy of the government, leading to political instability and reducing citizen participation in governance. It also fosters a culture of impunity, where public officials act without fear of repercussions.

Environmental Consequences: Corruption can lead to environmental degradation, as regulatory agencies may turn a blind eye to illegal activities like deforestation, mining, and pollution in exchange for bribes. This has long-term impacts on the environment and public health.

Corruption is a significant barrier to Nigeria's development, affecting all aspects of society. Addressing corruption requires a multifaceted approach involving legal, institutional, and societal reforms. By promoting transparency, accountability, and public awareness, Nigeria can combat corruption and foster a more just and prosperous society.

Who will Bell the Cat?

This is Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country and largest economy, this country has immense potential. However, she has faced significant leadership challenges since gaining independence in 1960. Issues such as corruption, lack of accountability, ethnic tensions, and economic mismanagement have hindered its development. Addressing these leadership problems is crucial for Nigeria's progress. We have retrogressed. Now, who will bell the cat? Nigeria needs a leader who is worthy of leadership, because a lot of these politicians are predators while the people are their preys. Here are possible solutions:

1. Strengthening Institutions: Robust institutions are the backbone of good governance. Strengthening institutions like the judiciary, anti-corruption bodies, and law enforcement agencies can ensure that they operate independently and effectively. Ensuring the autonomy and capacity of these institutions to hold leaders accountable can deter corrupt practices and abuse of power.

2. Promoting Transparency and Accountability: Transparency in governance can significantly reduce corruption. Implementing policies that mandate open government data, transparent budgeting processes, and public procurement can help. Additionally, establishing independent bodies to audit and oversee government activities ensures that leaders are held accountable for their actions.

3. Encouraging Civic Engagement: Active civic participation is vital for a healthy democracy. Empowering citizens through education about their rights and responsibilities can lead to greater involvement in governance. Civil society organizations and the media play critical roles in this regard, acting as watchdogs and advocating for the public’s interest.

4. Electoral Reforms: Reforming the electoral process to ensure free, fair, and credible elections is essential. This includes strengthening the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), implementing measures to prevent electoral fraud, and ensuring that elections are conducted transparently. Encouraging a competitive political environment where leaders are chosen based on merit rather than ethnicity or patronage is crucial.

5. Leadership Development Programs: Investing in leadership development programs can cultivate a new generation of leaders with integrity, vision, and competence. These programs should focus on ethical leadership, public administration, and policy-making skills. Partnering with educational institutions and international organizations can enhance the quality and reach of these programs.

6. Decentralization of Power: Decentralizing power from the federal to state and local governments can improve governance. Local leaders are often more attuned to the specific needs and challenges of their communities. Empowering local governments can lead to more efficient and responsive governance, fostering development at the grassroots level.

7. Strengthening the Rule of Law: Ensuring that laws are applied equally to all citizens, regardless of their status, is fundamental. Strengthening the rule of law requires reforming the judicial system to make it more efficient and accessible. It also involves training law enforcement officers to uphold justice impartially.

8. Economic Diversification and Development: Economic mismanagement and reliance on oil revenue have stunted Nigeria’s growth. Diversifying the economy through investments in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and services can create jobs and reduce poverty. Economic stability can reduce social tensions and create an environment conducive to good governance.

9. Addressing Ethnic and Regional Tensions: Nigeria’s ethnic and regional diversity is both a strength and a challenge. Promoting national unity while respecting diversity is essential. Implementing policies that ensure fair representation of all groups in government and addressing grievances through dialogue and inclusive development can mitigate tensions.

10. Ethical Leadership: Ultimately, ethical leadership is crucial. Leaders must prioritize the welfare of the citizens over personal or group interests. Cultivating a culture of integrity, humility, and service among leaders can inspire trust and confidence in the government.

Between You and I:

Nigeria's journey since independence has been marred by leadership failures that have stunted its growth and development. While there have been moments of progress and hope, they have often been overshadowed by periods of instability and mismanagement. For Nigeria to realize its potential, it needs visionary and accountable leadership that can effectively manage its diversity, harness its resources, and build robust institutions. “Non pes antea – No foot backward.” Worrying without work is worthlessness. “Laborare est orare – to work is to pray.”

Leadership problems in Nigeria are multifaceted and deeply rooted, but they are not insurmountable. By implementing these solutions, Nigeria can overcome its challenges and unlock its vast potential. Strong institutions, transparency, civic engagement, electoral reforms, leadership development, decentralization, rule of law, economic diversification, addressing ethnic tensions, and ethical leadership are all critical components of this transformation. 

With committed efforts from both the government and the citizens, Nigeria can achieve sustainable development and become a model for good governance in Africa. Contemporarily, this country is cooking rebellion. When the food is ready, we may not be able to finish it. We need to adhere to these solutions to end our sufferings, for one who is sane cannot be safe in an unsafe environment. While we pray, we must be prepared too; for revolution may be the only solution. Till we get it right, our human rights are neither protected nor projected in this country.

EMEKA CHIBUIKEM V. ⭐

GLOBAL SCHOOLS ADVOCATE 🌐 

X: @VICTORVIRI