Ahead of the 2027 General Elections, a group under the aegis of the Nehemiah Movement has criticized the current state of Nigerian politics, saying it reflects a troubling disconnect between the political class and the people. The group emphasized the need for citizens to unite across ideological lines to demand accountability and transparency from their leaders.
The group also noted that the ongoing political rivalry ahead of the 2027 polls is marked by divisive rhetoric and a lack of constructive dialogue aimed at alleviating the suffering of the populace. Political actors, they said, seem more concerned with consolidating power and influence rather than proposing solutions to the country’s economic challenges.
In a statement titled “The State of Nigerian Politics: A Call for People-Oriented Politicking,” signed by its coordinator, Dr. Olusanya Awosan, the group lamented that the focus on power struggles and partisan bickering undermines meaningful progress. The collective consciousness of the people, they said, can serve as a powerful force for change, compelling politicians to prioritize the welfare of the people over personal ambitions.
Recalling that Nigeria has faced significant economic challenges in recent years, with a majority of its citizens struggling with hardship and uncertainty, Dr. Awosan, former Senior Special Adviser (SSA) on Public Relations to former President Goodluck Jonathan, lamented that despite these pressing issues, the political class remains largely detached from the struggles of the populace. Instead, they continue to engage in partisan bickering and power struggles, prioritizing their ambitions over the needs of the citizens they are meant to serve.
“In recent years, Nigeria has faced significant economic challenges, with a majority of its citizens grappling with hardship and uncertainty. Despite these pressing issues, the political class appears largely detached from the struggles of the populace. Instead of demonstrating empathy and concern for the welfare of the people, politicians engage in partisan bickering and power struggles, prioritizing their ambitions over the needs of the citizens they are meant to serve. This situation raises critical questions about the role of the political class in nation-building and the welfare of the people,” he said.
“The current political landscape in Nigeria is characterized by a troubling trend: politicians seem to unite only when it comes to sharing the nation’s resources among themselves. In the corridors of power, there is palpable camaraderie, but this unity dissipates when the focus shifts to the welfare of citizens. The ongoing political rivalry, especially leading up to the 2027 elections, is marked by divisive rhetoric and a lack of constructive dialogue aimed at alleviating the suffering of the populace.”
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“Instead of proposing solutions to the economic challenges facing the nation, political actors seem more concerned with consolidating their power and influence,” he stated.
Awosan acknowledged that this self-serving behavior was not unique to Nigeria, but a phenomenon seen in many nations where political elites prioritize their interests over those of the people. However, he pointed out that there are countries where political classes, despite ideological differences, have demonstrated a commitment to the common good.
One such example, he said, is the Scandinavian countries, where political parties across the spectrum engage in constructive dialogue and collaboration to address social welfare issues. In these countries, the political class is largely focused on policies that promote equality, healthcare, education, and social security, leading to high standards of living and overall societal well-being.
“The commitment of the political class to the welfare of the people is crucial for nation-building. A people-oriented political class fosters an environment where citizens feel valued and heard, leading to increased trust in government institutions. When politicians prioritize the needs of their constituents, they create policies that uplift communities, reduce poverty, and promote sustainable development. This, in turn, leads to a more stable and prosperous society, where citizens can thrive and contribute to the nation’s growth,” he said.
The group coordinator stressed that the lack of empathy and concern from Nigeria’s political class should serve as a call to action for citizens. He emphasized that it is imperative for the populace to realize that their interests are often sidelined in the political arena.
He said the way to address this is for citizens to engage in active political participation, hold their leaders accountable, and advocate for policies that tackle the root causes of poverty and inequality. Grassroots movements, civil society organizations, and community leaders, he added, can play a pivotal role in mobilizing the populace and fostering a culture of civic engagement.
“To achieve this, citizens should engage in active political participation, hold their leaders accountable, and advocate for policies that address the root causes of poverty and inequality. Grassroots movements, civil society organizations, and community leaders can play a pivotal role in mobilizing the populace and fostering a culture of civic engagement.”
“By demanding a political class that is genuinely committed to the welfare of the people, Nigerians can work toward a future where governance is centered on the needs and aspirations of the citizenry,” Awosan said.
He concluded by citing a Bible scripture, Ezekiel 34:2-4, in which God condemned the shepherds of Israel for feeding themselves while neglecting their flock. According to him, the scripture serves as a powerful reminder that leaders are called to serve their people, not exploit them, and that it is time for Nigeria to unite “in their quest for a system where politicians from all divides prioritize the welfare of the people and work tirelessly for the betterment of all.”
