*Relection*
By George Ozalla
Nigeria’s democratic journey has been marked by numerous challenges, but prospects for a better future exist if key actors resolve to turn a new leaf. June 12, a significant day in Nigeria’s democratic history, commemorates the struggles and sacrifices of democracy advocates. The annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the fairest and most credible election in Nigeria’s history, was a watershed moment. Its annulment led to widespread protests with painful costs, and its impact is still felt today.
Chief MKO Abiola, the presumed winner, became a symbol of democracy and justice. Today, Nigeria celebrates the June 12 commemoration, reflecting on the country’s chequered democratic journey. Nigeria’s democratic experience has been plagued by military interventions, electoral malpractices, and deep-rooted corruption. Despite these challenges, Nigerians hold on to the hope of a better future where democracy delivers its dividends to all.
Corruption and electoral malpractices have been major obstacles. Insecurity, including terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping, has also had a profound impact on the country’s economy and citizens’ well-being. However, growing awareness among Nigerians about the importance of democracy and good governance offers prospects for a better future.
For Nigeria’s democracy to thrive, both leadership and followership must play their roles effectively. Leaders must prioritize citizens’ welfare, manage public funds effectively, and demonstrate empathy. Citizens must hold leaders accountable, demand better governance, and participate in civic activities. Patriotic and altruistic idealism is essential, prioritizing the nation’s interests above individual or party interests.
Reflecting on Martin Luther King Jr’s., wise statement that, “An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concern of all humanity.” This goes a long way to show the importance of leaders looking beyond their individual interests and prioritizing the welfare of all citizens.
It is worrisome to note that one recurring phenomenon about leadership in Nigeria has always been the speed with which those occupying sensitive positions transform those positions and themselves into veritable tools of oppression, self-aggrandizement, and corruption, constantly seeking the satiation of parochial agendas to the detriment of broader goals.
Good governance is about character and moral values. Former US Supreme Court Judge Antonio Scalia aptly said, “Good societies are not achieved by good laws but are built upon the effect of one good person upon another, and to expect more from law than good behaviour demeans virtue.” This statement also emphasizes the importance of individual character and moral values in building a good society. Leaders and citizens must prioritize moral values like honesty, integrity, selflessness, altruism, and compassion.
Nigeria’s potential for economic growth and development is substantial. The creative industries and tourism sector have immense potential for growth, contributing significantly to the country’s economy. By working together and committing to moral values, Nigerians can build a brighter future.
It is an irony that in our clime, we tend to see no morality in playing politics, but if we throw away morality, we must at least embrace rationality and legality, which will certainly foster a culture of responsibility and ethical leadership for our democracy to thrive. A situation where we lose all three smacks of collective crass irresponsible action that may threaten our nascent democracy.”
Nigeria’s democratic journey is a work in progress. With collective effort and determination, Nigerians can build a just, equitable, and prosperous society, honoring the sacrifices of democracy of our heroes and heroines. Sustaining democratic ideals, we can contribute to a brighter future for generations to come.
*Ozalla is the Publisher & Editor-in-Chief of Newscount..
