Editorial
Nigeria At 55: Of Wasted Years, The Way Forward
Development process. It requires patience, steadfastness, integrity and indeed unrelenting resolve to get things done.
Upon independence in 1960, the founding fathers of the nation grappled with the currents of divides that highlighted our diversity. It was indeed a competition of sorts among the three regions: the Northern, Western and Eastern regions which also typified the three largest ethnic groups of Hausa/Fulani, Yoruba and Igbo.
Each of these regions pursued development programmes, economic integration endeavours and indeed political cohesion. Those were years, when, the regions were viable and indeed wielded stronger influence more than the centre, as would a confederation.
In 1963, Nigeria became a Republic and later adopted Presidential democracy, in place of the parliamentary system that was. During these years, Nigeria was self-sufficient in food production as each region developed its resource base and enjoyed bountiful derivation from its hardwork.
More than any thing else, the founding fathers laid the necessary foundation for infrastructural development, economic growth, political cohesion and indeed inter-ethnic and religious harmony. However, the military incursions of 1966, leading to a Civil War in 1967 and protracted military rule till 1979, in many ways, hampered the sustenance of development efforts and the required actualisation of other set goals.
The infrastructural development programme was abandoned. Agriculture too took a back seat in preference for easy petro-dollars that the nation earned from crude oil sourced predominantly from the Niger Delta.
By the emergence of the Second Republic in 1979, Nigeria’s consumption pattern had changed drastically with the ruling class importing even tooth-pick from other nations. Those years of oil boom also encouraged so much corruption among the ruling class with little or no attention given to basic infrastructure development, investments in education and health, electricity power generation and distribution and indeed human capacity building, resulting in a brain drain.
Little wonder, the military struck barely four years later in December, 1983 and ruled Nigeria for another 16 years. With the three arms of government rolled into one and constitutional powers thereof, exercised by a military council, Nigerians suffered the ripple effects of absolute power, which many know, corrupts absolutely.
Within those years, very little or no meaningful investments were made in the power sector, very little on improving the nation’s education and health profile among many other emergencies, while military officers amassed so much wealth that naturally fashioned the lifestyle of great number of those who made the political ruling class. Therefore, when democracy was reinstated in 1999, most politicians had imbibed so much flamboyant military culture laced with impunity so much that they got farther and farther away, from the electorate, they were supposed to serve.
In the 16 years that followed, successive governments spent N2.740 trillion on electricity, yet power supply remains a problem. There was very little or no consideration for aggressive investment in petroleum by-products development, manufacturing for local consumption and the necessity to open up the country through road infrastructure. Federal roads became death traps, States were created out of exigency and political gratification without commiserate economic independence prior to those 16 years, had become not only a burden to themselves but also to the nation.
Today, many States can hardly pay workers’ salaries, because, unlike the original regions, they lack the necessary economic foundation to be called federating units. Because they lack the foresight to create the necessary investment climate to attract, manufacturing, agricultural and tourism related concerns among several others, their internally generated revenue is almost zero.
It is for that reason that they monthly rush to the centre for hand-outs sourced mainly from oil export, which proceeds have dwindled beyond imaginable ends, thus, raising the urgent need for Nigeria to look elsewhere. This is where we are as a nation. One that cannot harness its enormous resources for the growth and survival of its peoples and instead imports virtually everything the people need.
At 55, a nation-state ought think like a retiring public servant and plans well for family and children. We must together build upon the enviable political legacy bequeathed by the last administration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, if we are to deepen democracy.
In years before the last elections, there were predictions by agencies of developed nations that Nigeria would disintegrate by the year 2015. And judging from the nature of intolerance, hatred, desperation, violent vituperations and arms accumulation, that attended the electioneering campaigns, everything pointed to the actualisation of that prediction.
That is why President Jonathan’s rare statesmanly response to the electoral outcome even as an incumbent on the African Continent should not only be hailed but be built-upon by beneficiaries of his political maturity and help deepen democratic culture in the land. All public officers must respect the dictates of separation of powers as a necessary tool to ensure checks and balances.
Surely, the days are gone when the executive arm determined the type of leadership it needs for both the judiciary and the legislature. Happily, the leadership of the two-chambers of the 8th National Assembly have assured that nothing short of separation of powers and necessary oversight of executive activities will be carried out.
In this regard therefore, we expect the Gen Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government to hasten the formation of a federal cabinet to address the many national concerns begging for attention. Nigerians expect an economic team that would help avert an impending economic recession as warned by the Central Bank of Nigeria, recover stolen funds, revamp the petroleum sector, make our refineries work and establish new ones and above all create jobs for the teeming productive youth of the country.
Even so, government must not relent in encouraging the military to bring to a positive end, the protracted insurgency and terrorist activities in the North Eastern part of the country. It should also increase the momentum of the war against oil theft even as government invests in other substitutes to oil, especially agriculture and tourism.
All these would not succeed unless the peoples of the Niger Delta, direct victims of years of oil prospection and production, with their attendant environment problems and despoliation of lauds, swamps and rivers are economically integrated. With the amnesty programme terminating soon, and rebuilding of the Niger Delta yet to gather full steam, now is the time to pursue an oil-bearing areas’ re-integration project to avert another round of violent agitations by the youth.
The insurgency in the North has taken so much toll, Nigeria cannot afford waging two wars, one in the North and another in the South, at the same time. The fatality rate will be huge and loss of capital most devastating.
While The Tide wishes all Nigerians happy independence, we do condole with Muslim families who lost loved ones to the Haji stampede in Sandi Arabia, in which 64 Nigerians have been confirmed killed, 71 wounded and 144 still missing. Happy Independence.
The delay in implementing President Bola Tinubu’s directive for zero customs duty and value added tax on food imports is unacceptable and highlights a concerning lack of urgency within the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Nigerian Customs Service. Over two months after the announcement, the policy remains stalled, despite the President’s clear intention for immediate enforcement. This prolonged delay, especially given the policy’s temporary nature (July – December), is inexplicable and detrimental to a hoi polloi already grappling with a severe economic crisis.
While the Comptroller-General of Customs attributes the delay to the Ministry of Finance finalising details, this explanation is insufficient. The dire need for food relief demands swift action, especially in the face of soaring fuel prices, rampant inflation, and skyrocketing food costs. The President’s promise of subsidised rice at N40,000 per 50kg bag remains elusive as well, pushing many Nigerians further into hardship. Accusations of deliberate slowdowns motivated by the government’s revenue goals are alarming and warrant serious investigation.
A circular from the Presidency has clarified the approved food items eligible for duty exemption, specifically maize, millet, rice, wheat, husked brown rice, grain sorghum, and beans. This strategic move aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers and enhance food security. Previously subjected to import duties between five and 30 per cent, these commodities will now be more accessible, potentially stabilising prices in the local market.
It seems the execution of the policy is encountering obstacles due to bureaucratic processes. If the government fails to address this crisis with comprehensive and effective measures, the consequences could be catastrophic. The simmering discontent amongst Nigerians could easily boil over into widespread protests and social unrest, further destabilising an already fragile nation. Ignoring the cries of its citizens and the looming threat of social upheaval would be a grave mistake with potentially devastating ramifications.
Public officials insulated by privilege and detached from the everyday struggles of the people, have fostered a dangerous disconnect. For too long, they have failed to truly understand the harsh realities faced by the majority of Nigerians, the daily grind of poverty, the constant battle for survival, and the crushing weight of economic hardship. However, the current multifaceted crisis, with its clear manifestation of suffering, should serve as a jarring wake-up call, even to the most arrogant and out-of-touch.
The government’s ill-conceived and draconian policies, implemented without adequate consideration for the people, have created an intolerable situation that can no longer be swept under the rug or dismissed with platitudes. The widespread suffering is a stark indictment of their negligence, demanding a fundamental shift in perspective and a renewed commitment to the welfare of the Nigerian people.
The recent #EndBadGovernance protests serve as an obvious reminder that disregarding the plight of the people is a dangerous gamble. When basic needs like food and security are unmet, and the cries for change are silenced, the simmering discontent inevitably boils over. Escalating hunger and desperation create a fertile ground for unrest, a truth tragically illustrated by the protests. If the government continues to turn a blind eye to the suffering of its citizens, more widespread and possibly violent demonstrations are not only likely, but inevitable.
Furthermore, attempting to quell dissent through intimidation and persecution of protesters is a recipe for disaster, as it only serves to further inflame tensions and breed resentment. The path to stability lies not in suppression, but in genuine engagement with the concerns of the people and a commitment to addressing the root causes of their suffering.
The Federal Ministry of Finance, led by Olawale Edun, has a crucial role to play in improving the image of this government. Minister Edun and Customs Comptroller-General, Wale Adeniyi, must prioritise the fight against hunger by expediting the zero duty policy. This policy will allow the importation of food at a reduced cost and ease the burden on struggling families.
Officials must accord precedence to the well-being of citizens over bureaucratic processes. The current economic hardship is undeniable, and the callous indifference displayed by those in power, who seem shielded from the harsh realities ordinary Nigerians face, is deeply troubling. The government must act decisively to expedite this critical policy and provide the much-needed relief to a population struggling with hunger, poverty, and misery. Continued delay is a betrayal of Tinubu’s promise and a grim reminder of the disconnect between those in power and the suffering Nigerians.
The delay in implementing President Bola Tinubu’s directive for zero customs duty and value added tax on food imports is unacceptable and highlights a concerning lack of urgency within the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Nigerian Customs Service. Over two months after the announcement, the policy remains stalled, despite the President’s clear intention for immediate enforcement. This prolonged delay, especially given the policy’s temporary nature (July – December), is inexplicable and detrimental to a hoi polloi already grappling with a severe economic crisis.
While the Comptroller-General of Customs attributes the delay to the Ministry of Finance finalising details, this explanation is insufficient. The dire need for food relief demands swift action, especially in the face of soaring fuel prices, rampant inflation, and skyrocketing food costs. The President’s promise of subsidised rice at N40,000 per 50kg bag remains elusive as well, pushing many Nigerians further into hardship. Accusations of deliberate slowdowns motivated by the government’s revenue goals are alarming and warrant serious investigation.
A circular from the Presidency has clarified the approved food items eligible for duty exemption, specifically maize, millet, rice, wheat, husked brown rice, grain sorghum, and beans. This strategic move aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers and enhance food security. Previously subjected to import duties between five and 30 per cent, these commodities will now be more accessible, potentially stabilising prices in the local market.
It seems the execution of the policy is encountering obstacles due to bureaucratic processes. If the government fails to address this crisis with comprehensive and effective measures, the consequences could be catastrophic. The simmering discontent amongst Nigerians could easily boil over into widespread protests and social unrest, further destabilising an already fragile nation. Ignoring the cries of its citizens and the looming threat of social upheaval would be a grave mistake with potentially devastating ramifications.
Public officials insulated by privilege and detached from the everyday struggles of the people, have fostered a dangerous disconnect. For too long, they have failed to truly understand the harsh realities faced by the majority of Nigerians, the daily grind of poverty, the constant battle for survival, and the crushing weight of economic hardship. However, the current multifaceted crisis, with its clear manifestation of suffering, should serve as a jarring wake-up call, even to the most arrogant and out-of-touch.
The government’s ill-conceived and draconian policies, implemented without adequate consideration for the people, have created an intolerable situation that can no longer be swept under the rug or dismissed with platitudes. The widespread suffering is a stark indictment of their negligence, demanding a fundamental shift in perspective and a renewed commitment to the welfare of the Nigerian people.
The recent #EndBadGovernance protests serve as an obvious reminder that disregarding the plight of the people is a dangerous gamble. When basic needs like food and security are unmet, and the cries for change are silenced, the simmering discontent inevitably boils over. Escalating hunger and desperation create a fertile ground for unrest, a truth tragically illustrated by the protests. If the government continues to turn a blind eye to the suffering of its citizens, more widespread and possibly violent demonstrations are not only likely, but inevitable.
Furthermore, attempting to quell dissent through intimidation and persecution of protesters is a recipe for disaster, as it only serves to further inflame tensions and breed resentment. The path to stability lies not in suppression, but in genuine engagement with the concerns of the people and a commitment to addressing the root causes of their suffering.
The Federal Ministry of Finance, led by Olawale Edun, has a crucial role to play in improving the image of this government. Minister Edun and Customs Comptroller-General, Wale Adeniyi, must prioritise the fight against hunger by expediting the zero duty policy. This policy will allow the importation of food at a reduced cost and ease the burden on struggling families.
Officials must accord precedence to the well-being of citizens over bureaucratic processes. The current economic hardship is undeniable, and the callous indifference displayed by those in power, who seem shielded from the harsh realities ordinary Nigerians face, is deeply troubling. The government must act decisively to expedite this critical policy and provide the much-needed relief to a population struggling with hunger, poverty, and misery. Continued delay is a betrayal of Tinubu’s promise and a grim reminder of the disconnect between those in power and the suffering Nigerians.
All looks set for the conduct of the Rivers State local government election scheduled to take place tomorrow in the 23 local government areas of the state. A total of 18 political parties will vie for various council positions in the polls to be conducted on Saturday. The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) had initially listed 19 political parties for the election, but the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) discontinued the contest. Chief Emeka Beke’s faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said that it will participate in the ballot.
Ahead of tomorrow’s council election, various lawsuits have resulted in conflicting rulings about how the election should be conducted. A recent judgment by a Federal High Court in Abuja has prohibited the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from providing the voters register to RSIEC and instructed the police to withdraw security for the ballot. Similarly, the court has barred RSIEC from getting the voters register from INEC. However, in a counter ruling, a High Court in Port Harcourt has mandated that the state electoral commission continues with the election, requiring INEC to hand over the voters register and ordering police protection for the event.
As voters in the state prepare to head to the polls tomorrow, the conflicting rulings and legal battles have cast a shadow of uncertainty over the election process. With INEC and RSIEC at odds over claims regarding the issuance of the voters register by the former and security arrangements for the ballot, there is a need for clarity and resolution to ensure a free and fair election. The conflicting court rulings have added further complications to an already challenging situation, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. As all stakeholders navigate these legal challenges, the focus remains on upholding the democratic principles and ensuring that voters are able to cast their ballots without interference.
Intense preparations have characterised Saturday’s polls. The election is expected to be conducted in line with the provisions of the Rivers State electoral laws. Speaking at a meeting with stakeholders, the RSIEC chairman, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (Rtd), hinted that the commission had complied with relevant sections of the law in all its preparations for the task. He implored political parties and politicians to ignore acts that could jeopardise the electoral process.
While we wholeheartedly endorse the move to ensure that democratic practice, norms and values always prevail at the local government level, we are truly elated by the level of earnestness and commitment exhibited so far by the Justice Enebeli-led commission to conduct credible, free and fair election in the 23 local government councils. Indeed, RSIEC can execute credible elections if it resists pressures from different quarters.
Despite the Federal High Court order, the state electoral commission’s parley with security agencies, especially with the police, and other stakeholders is, to say the least, heart-warming and reassuring. We expect this cooperation and partnership to continue even after the election. Going by Enebeli’s antecedents, we strongly believe that the commission will not fail to provide a level playing ground for political parties and politicians to test their popularity in a free, fair and tension-free contest.
The state electoral body must, therefore, strive to adopt an open-door policy where complaints would be entertained on their merit during and after the election. As anticipated, we hope the commission embarked on massive voter education and training of electoral and ad hoc staff that would man the 23 local government areas. It is advised that adequate preparations should be made for the security of sensitive and non-sensitive electoral materials, particularly given the tensed atmosphere in the state.
RSIEC is reminded that the success or otherwise of any election depends largely on the authenticity of the updated voter’s register which the commission has reportedly obtained ahead of the election from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The news that as many as 18 political parties in the state will participate in the council polls is cheering. The parties are urged to support and cooperate with the commission in ensuring a smooth and credible election.
It is expedient that Governor Siminalayi Fubara releases all the funds appropriated for the conduct of the local government election to the commission and ensure that he does not interfere in the workings of the RSIEC, or even influence the outcome one way or the other. Members of the commission should work harder to uphold the law without fear or favour; let or hindrance.
Incidents of missing ballot or result sheets, late arrival of materials and other logistics will only serve to discourage the electorate who already entertain a deep mistrust for the electoral process in the country. The lack of confidence in the system is largely responsible for the attitude of most Nigerians refraining from playing an active role of either voting for candidates of their choice or vying for political office. RSIEC must guard against those lapses.
Politicians, on their part, must understand that irrespective of their party affiliations, the common goal is the provision of good governance for the people. An election should never be a ‘‘do or die affair’’ and no aspirant is worth spilling blood for. Political positions are a call to service, not personal enterprises motivated by profits or bloody sports for which violent and fatal competitions are means. Experience has shown that arms provided for political thugs during elections, end up being tools for robberies and kidnappings after the election.
The idea of security agents acting the script of political actors should no longer amount to something in our polity. The nation currently faces perhaps its worst security challenges, and the police as well as other security agencies need the trust of Rivers people to enable them to carry out their duties effectively throughout the polls.
Law enforcement agents must protect both voters and election materials because it is their constitutional role to do so. The recent #Endbadgovernance protest, along with the violence that ensued, is a manifestation of the dissatisfaction of Nigerians with police operations. These security agencies must learn to commit themselves to their constitutional obligation and oath in the sustenance of democracy, rather than to any government official.
We must realise that ultimate power rests with the people, and the best way to exercise this power is through the electoral process. Hence, Rivers people must own the electoral operation, first by acquiring their permanent voters’ card, turn out en masse tomorrow to vote for candidates of their choice, and guarantee that their votes count. They have to elect responsible and responsive persons whose utmost interest will be the security and welfare of the people.
