The Disturbing Reality of Politics in Nigeria
The article reflects the author’s disillusionment with Nigerian politics, where politicians prioritize personal gain over public service. They identify four motivations driving political participation: wealth, power, popularity, and prestige. The narrative encourages citizens to focus on policies rather than personalities, advocating for a more informed and involved electorate.
The author reflects upon a profound personal journey in politics, recounting a time when their passion for political discourse had been unwavering. They attended rallies and loyally supported candidates, often at the cost of personal relationships due to ideological differences. The writer initially viewed politics as a noble endeavor driven by ideas, commitment, and patriotism.
However, a revelation occurred when they observed that victorious politicians transformed their lives dramatically, prioritizing personal wealth and power over the people. Spouses became “Her Excellency” with attendant pomp, and their children entered a realm of luxury far removed from ordinary citizens. This new lifestyle created an exclusive circle, rendering access to these politicians challenging for ordinary supporters.
After reflecing on these changes, the author identified four primary motivations driving political engagement in Nigeria: wealth acquisition, the pursuit of power, the quest for popularity, and the allure of prestige. The author asserts that for many politicians, service to the community is secondary to personal interests.
As the author reminisced over the politicians they had ardently supported, a disillusioning realization emerged: those in power quickly forgot their loyal supporters upon achieving success. This led to a critical decision to distance emotional attachment from politics, focusing instead on candidates’ track records and community impact.
The author observes a prevailing trait among many African politicians, namely extreme selfishness, viewing politics as a lucrative business rather than a public service. This exploitation leaves loyal supporters, the ‘street soldiers,’ disillusioned and marginalized. In Nigeria, politics is increasingly perceived as a familial endeavor rather than a communal service, perpetuating a cycle of disappointment.
To combat this trend, the author urges the public to prioritize ideas and principles over individual politicians, advocating for a collective awakening among citizens to their intrinsic worth. Only by fostering an informed electorate can the nation rise above current challenges.
Ultimately, the author expresses hope, urging fellow Nigerians to maintain their belief in a better future and encouraging politicians to dedicate themselves to genuine public service.
Mogaji Wole Arisekola advocates for a shift in perspective: followers should embrace wisdom, celebrate principles over personalities, and realize their potential to demand accountability from their leaders.
In summary, the author provides a candid critique of political engagement within Nigeria, emphasizing that profound disillusionment stems from the self-serving nature of many politicians. By reflecting on past experiences, they conclude that citizens must evolve to prioritize policies and principles over personalities, transforming their relationship with politics. The inclusion of hope for a brighter future serves as a reminder for both politicians and constituents alike to strive for genuine public service and accountability.
Original Source: guardian.ng
