By Oyewale Bukunmi John
The experience of Nigerians under political leaders is disheartening. It has become a persistent issue, akin to a pandemic, with a lack of political understanding exacerbating the problem. During elections, leaders parade promises that, like carnivores, prey on the doubts of the innocent but ignorant masses. Uncovering the depths of corruption and lies proves challenging, dating back to Nigeria’s independence in 1960, where nightmares persist in the shadows, concealed by plagiarized party manifestos.
The decline in the chemical and petroleum products sub-sector from 65.7 percent in 1993 to 29.4 percent in 1995 mirrors the broader decay in the Nigerian manufacturing sector. This decline, coupled with insecurity, forms a trial balance tipping toward instability. Notably, the Chibok girls’ abduction underscores the failure of leaders to address insecurity effectively, as the rule of law transforms into a room of political lust.
Before the discovery of oil, Nigeria’s income stemmed from agriculture. However, the sudden focus on fuel neglected the agricultural sector. Despite claims of discovering and establishing projects, leaders turn into preachers of truth after their tenure, attending seminars and writing books to salvage their public image, conveniently forgetting their power to correct issues while in office.
In the past 63 years, Nigeria has not only disappointed as the “Giant of Africa” but has also fallen short globally. The shadows of past leaders, like General Sani Abacha, accused of human rights abuses, continue to loom. The dark episode involving Ken Saro-Wiwa’s death in 1995 persists as a haunting reminder of government tyranny.
The era of military wealth accumulation may be gone, but civilian democracy still grapples with corruption shadows, fostering inequality before injustice rather than law. The writer’s tone reflects a somber acknowledgment of Nigeria’s failure to live up to expectations, both regionally and globally.
