Connect with us

News

#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests: A Civil Call To Save Nigeria From Extinction

Published

on

#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria Protests: A Civil Call To Save Nigeria From Extinction

BY COMRADE PHILS

Nigeria, the most populous country on the African continent and a once-promising beacon of hope in the region, now teeters on the brink of collapse. The malaise affecting this vibrant nation isn’t due to a lack of resources or potential but rather a crisis of governance. As corruption, mismanagement, and systemic inefficiencies continue to plague the country, it becomes increasingly clear that Nigeria’s survival hinges on an urgent and uncompromising call for reform. The people, tired of the increasing hardship and the terrible inflation, are reacting with protests tagged #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria.

Nigeria’s Dilemma: The Cost of Corruption and Mismanagement

Nigeria’s troubles are not merely as a result of the offset of global economic downturns or external pressures. At the heart of its woes is a deep-seated corruption, what I often term “endemic corruption” that has seen the nation’s resources siphoned off into personal purses and stifled national progress. The oil wealth that should have been a blessing has instead become a curse, with billions of dollars disappearing into the pockets of corrupt officials. This mismanagement has crippled the infrastructure, crippled the health sector, left the education system in disrepair and is now biting hard on food prices, leaving the bulk of the people in starvation.

Public services have deteriorated dramatically. Roads are in disrepair, electricity supply is erratic yet quite expensive, and basic healthcare is often out of reach for many Nigerians, irrespective of class. The ripple effect of these failures is felt in every facet of society, from the rising unemployment rates to the ever-expanding gaps between the rich and the poor. The stark reality is that Nigeria’s governance issues are not just a political problem; they are an existential threat.

The Security Crisis

The security situation in Nigeria has reached alarming levels. Armed insurgencies, banditry, and ethnic violence have become commonplace. The government’s inability to provide safety and security has created an environment where lawlessness thrives. Citizens are left to fend for themselves, and the state’s inability to protect its people only exacerbates the crisis.

The Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast, the Fulani herdsmen clashes in the middle belt, and the various armed groups in the Niger Delta are just symptoms of a larger governance failure. Not forgetting the Unknown Gunmen siege of the South Eastern part of the nation, where criminals taking cover under the cloak of self-determination agents often sack police stations and military units. When the state loses control over its territory, it not only jeopardizes immediate security but also undermines the very foundation of the nation.

Economic Despair

Nigeria’s economic landscape is equally grim. The economy, once buoyed by oil revenues, now struggles under the weight of poor governance and economic mismanagement. Inflation rates soar, and the naira has depreciated significantly. The business climate is hostile to both local entrepreneurs and foreign investors due to unpredictable policies, the baseless value of the naira against the dollar and rampant corruption.

Unemployment rates continue to climb, particularly among the youth, leading to increased social unrest. Without a significant overhaul in governance, the economic prospects for Nigeria look bleak. The potential for economic growth is stifled by a lack of infrastructure, corruption, and an inefficient bureaucracy that discourages investment and innovation.

*A Government of Elitocracy*

The troubles of Nigeria got multiplied in days following the inauguration of the administration of the current president, Ahmed Bola Tinubu in May, 2023. Largely accused of forcing his way to power, his policies have been squarely elitist without recourse to the majority of the poor citizens in the nation.

He announced his entrance in 2023, by removing fuel subsidy, thereby causing a tripled hike in the cost of petroleum products, in his first day in office without providing cushioning steps for the suffering masses.


The call to #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria that is kick started by the ongoing nationwide protests is not just a slogan but a necessary demand for change. As citizens, leaders, and stakeholders come together to confront these challenges, Nigeria’s future can shift from one of impending extinction to one of renewal and prosperity. The time for reform is now, and the stakes have never been higher.

This unplanned policy and the inability to stabilize the naira rates against the US dollar, transcended into a sudden rise in food prices across the nation.
With a minimum wage of barely N30,000 (less than 20 US dollars) per month, which was recently increased to N70,000 per month, after a long struggle with the organized Labour Unions, Nigerians are expected to curb with, for example, the price of rice which went from N38,000 per bag to N85,000 per bag within the first three months of Tinubu’s regime. This inflation affects every aspect of life in Nigeria. Hence, the raging anger of the people, who have been civil enough to express it in the form of a peaceful nationwide protest.
The Path Forward: A Peaceful Call for Reform
To steer Nigeria away from the brink of extinction, a comprehensive approach to governance reform is essential. This reform must be holistic, targeting the root causes of corruption, inefficiency, and violence. It should include the following critical steps:
1. Anti-Corruption Measures: Enforcing stringent anti-corruption laws and ensuring accountability for those in power is crucial. Transparency in public spending and the prosecution of corrupt officials are non-negotiable steps toward rebuilding trust in governance.
2. Institutional Reforms: Strengthening institutions to function independently and effectively can help curb mismanagement and enhance service delivery. This includes reforming the judiciary, police, and other critical sectors to operate with integrity and efficiency.
3. Security Overhaul: A renewed focus on security sector reform is needed to address the root causes of violence and insurgency. Investing in intelligence, improving community policing, and fostering dialogue between conflicting groups can help restore peace.
4. Economic Diversification: Reducing dependency on oil by diversifying the economy is essential for long-term stability. Promoting agriculture, technology, and manufacturing sectors can create jobs and build a more resilient economic framework.
5. Public Engagement: Encouraging civic participation and engaging the populace in decision-making processes can lead to more accountable and responsive governance. Civil society organizations and media must play an active role in holding leaders accountable.
Conclusion
Nigeria stands at a crossroads. The path it takes now will determine whether it can overcome its governance crisis or succumb to further decay. The call to #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria that is kick started by the ongoing nationwide protests is not just a slogan but a necessary demand for change. As citizens, leaders, and stakeholders come together to confront these challenges, Nigeria’s future can shift from one of impending extinction to one of renewal and prosperity. The time for reform is now, and the stakes have never been higher.
Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Environment

UK Invests £180 Million In Solar Panels For Schools And Hospitals

Published

on

In a bid to reduce the country’s planet-warming emissions, the UK government has announced a £180 million investment in solar panels for hundreds of schools and hospitals across the country.

This move is part of the government’s efforts to achieve its long-term climate goals and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

The investment, which is the first major project from Great British Energy, the government’s new state owned energy company, is expected to provide solar panels for 200 schools and 200 hospitals.

This will not only help reduce energy bills but also cut carbon emissions and promote sustainability.

According to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, “Great British Energy’s first major project will be to help our vital public institutions save hundreds of millions on bills to reinvest on the frontline.”

 He added that the project will help reduce the financial pressure of energy bills on schools and hospitals.

The announcement has been welcomed by schools, unions, and NHS estate managers, who have long been advocating for measures to reduce energy costs.

Paul Whiteman, NAHT general secretary, said that the investment is a “step in the right direction” and will help schools manage energy bills, which have been a significant financial burden in recent years.

However, not everyone is optimistic about the investment.

Andrew Bowie, shadow energy secretary, argued that the government’s net zero plans will make the country “poorer.”

He claimed that the investment will lead to increased reliance on foreign powers like Russia.

In contrast, energy experts believe that investing in renewable energy will reduce the UK’s reliance on imports.

Jess Ralston, energy analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, said that the investment in solar panels will improve energy security and reduce the amount of gas imported from countries like Russia.

The first solar panels are expected to be installed by the end of the summer, with a focus on areas of “highest need.”

Continue Reading

Diaspora

Diaspora Watch – Vol. 39

Published

on

By

Diaspora Watch Newspaper - Vol. 39 - WN March 10 - 16, 2025

Get ready for the most explosive edition yet! Diaspora Watch 39th edition is packed with breaking news, shocking revelations, and heartwarming stories that will leave you breathless!

Print on Demand & FREE Digital View:
https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/3036398?__r=1069759

Diaspora Watch on Amazon:
https://shorturl.at/1ZlB6

SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch-newspaper/

DIASPORA WATCH 39TH EDITION: GLOBAL NEWS EXPLOSION!

Putin and Trump hold the fate of Ukraine in the balance as they engage in high-stakes talks! What will be the outcome? Find out inside!

Mark Carney sworn in as Canadian Prime Minister! A new era begins in Canadian politics, but what does the future hold?

Trump drops a bombshell, declaring Biden’s last-minute pardons “null and void”! The implications are staggering – get the full story inside!

Global growth set to slow down in 2025 and 2026, warns OECD report! What does this mean for the global economy?

SpaceX capsule delivers four astronauts to International Space Station! A historic achievement in space exploration that will leave you starstruck!

Your WhatsApp account can be compromised in minutes – find out how to stay safe online!

African Union rejects parallel government in Sudan, warns of country’s partition! The AU takes a firm stance on Sudan’s political crisis – get the latest inside!

Nigeria set to appoint new envoys as vetting process begins! Who will make the cut?

Nnamdi Kanu expresses gratitude as Chief Justice reassigned terrorism case! A significant development in the Nnamdi Kanu case – find out more!

ECOWAS Parliament intervenes in Guinea-Bissau, Liberia crises! Regional leaders work towards a peaceful resolution – get the full story!

And in a heartwarming turn of events, Asake reconciles with ailing father, promises new house and responsibility for 11-year-old daughter!

Continue Reading

Diaspora

Diaspora Watch – Vol. 38

Published

on

By

Diaspora Watch Unveils 38th Edition: Get ready for the most anticipated edition yet!

Print on Demand & FREE Digital View: https://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/3030359?__r=1069759

SUBSCRIBE TO DIASPORA WATCH NOW ON THE BELOW LINK !!!
https://diasporawatch.com/subscribe-to-diaspora-watch-newspaper/

Diaspora Watch is proud to present its 38th edition, packed with the latest news, trends, and analysis from around the world.

Our cover headlines are buzzing with hot topics: the mass trial of opposition figures in Tunisia, the UK government’s refusal to pay Rwanda over a canceled migrant deal, and Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress, outlining his vision for a second term.

But that’s not all – we’re also diving into the world of sports, with a special feature on Nigeria’s first Super Bowl winner, Moro Ojomo, who received a hero’s welcome at Aso Villa. And, meet the 35-year-old Nigerian man who’s making waves with his incredible talent for building helicopters and guns from rubber!

In our lifestyle section, we’re exploring the devastating consequences of procrastination and how to overcome it. Plus, find out why Nigerian celebrities are caught up in Lamborghini fever!

As always, Diaspora Watch is your premier source for compelling stories, analysis, and perspectives that matter to Africans everywhere.

So, grab your copy now and stay informed, inspired, and connected to the global African community!

Continue Reading

Trending