The national president of the Nigeria Political Science Association, Prof. Hassan Saliu, has described Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary as a momentous occasion that calls for sober reflection.
Saliu who spoke with LEADERSHIP in Ilorin, Kwara State lamented that some Nigeria’s leaders have squandered numerous opportunities.
The NPSA president added: “Nigeria @ 65 is a momentous occasion that calls for sober reflection, particularly among its leaders, who seem to have squandered numerous opportunities. One such opportunity is the immense oil revenue generated from oil sales.
“A basic expectation was that the country would prioritise protecting this sector. However, public refineries have been neglected despite yearly budgets allocated to them. While Nigeria struggles to repair its refineries, Aliko Dangote has launched his own, albeit amidst concerns. The start of operations at the Dangote refinery has disappointed some Nigerians who had hoped for significant reductions in oil prices, and it has also exposed the character of the ruling elites. The oil sector’s performance is concerning, particularly its failure to stimulate other sectors of the economy.
“Overall, while one could say so far, so good, there are more pressing issues to reflect on. One of these issues is the practice of democracy, which has proven ineffective in improving the lives of the general population. Nigeria’s democratic system seems stuck in a cycle of elections, with citizens eagerly awaiting the next round due to unfulfilled promises of a better future.
“Paradoxically, the more years spent under democracy, the more Nigerians are ensnared by poverty. The real issue to interrogate is the attitude of democrats in the country. In my view, democracy has become mere sloganeering, benefiting only those in power.
For me, all is not well in the country. Many issues need to be addressed, but the people are losing confidence in the governing process, evident in their withdrawal from political participation. My agenda, therefore, is to bridge the huge gap between Nigerians and their government at all levels.
“At 65, the morale of Nigerians is very low, which should challenge the ruling elites to abandon the attitude of the past that suggests things would sort themselves out. That luxury is no longer available to the leaders due to the harsh realities of living conditions in the country. Our leaders should adjust themselves and do what is necessary for the citizens.”
