Reflections on the Disturbing Side of Politics in Nigeria

The author shares a personal journey from passionate political loyalty to disillusionment, identifying the motivations behind political involvement in Nigeria as money, power, popularity, and prestige. They observe that many politicians prioritize personal gain over public service, leading to the exploitation of supporters. The article calls for a shift in mindset towards supporting principles and policies instead of individual politicians, advocating for a more discerning electorate.

In earlier years, the author was passionately involved in politics, attending rallies and staunchly supporting political figures. This fervent loyalty often led to discord with friends and family who held opposing views. The author’s enthusiasm for political ideals was unwavering until they observed a troubling transformation in politicians after elections that made them question the integrity of the political system.

After a period of reflection, the author identified four primary motivations for individuals joining politics in Nigeria: the pursuit of money, the desire for power, the quest for popularity, and the attainment of prestige. These motivations reveal a stark reality about the nature of many politicians, wherein the focus shifts from serving the public to self-interest and personal gain.

The author recalled past political champions who, upon achieving power, forgot their supporters altogether. This realization prompted a profound shift in perspective, leading them to abstain from emotional investment in political figures, opting instead to evaluate candidates based on their community impact and integrity.

Across Africa, a shared trait of selfishness among politicians has emerged, with many prioritizing personal advancement over public service. This has left devoted supporters disenfranchised and overlooked, highlighting a systemic issue within political dynamics. The author observed that Nigerian politics often resembles a family business, where loyalty is exploited and disappointment is frequent.

However, the author advocates for a shift in mindset among supporters. They urge individuals to stop venerating politicians and instead prioritize policies and principles. The call to action is for followers to become more discerning and to invest their loyalty in ideas rather than individuals, emphasizing that true change will arise when the electorate becomes wiser than their leaders.

In summary, the author reflects on the disillusionment with politics in Nigeria, highlighting self-interest over public service as a prevalent issue among politicians. By advocating for a renewed focus on principles and policies rather than personalities, the author encourages followers to become more discerning and disengaged from blind loyalty. Only through this shift can the cycle of disappointment in political leadership be broken, allowing for a more equitable and responsible political environment.

Original Source: guardian.ng