Professor Salihu Criticizes Ideological Deficiency in Nigerian Politics

Professor Hassan Salihu, President of the Nigeria Political Science Association, has offered a candid commentary on the current state of Nigerian politics. Speaking from his academic position at the University of Ilorin, he shared concerns that the political landscape in Nigeria is dearth of ideals that were once synonymous with past political eras.

The Shift from Ideology to Business

According to Professor Salihu, politics in Nigeria has tragically devolved into a business venture. He asserts that the idealism that once drove political action has been replaced by personal gain pursuits. “Politics has become a business… every politician you see looks at their pocket,” he states, highlighting the absence of concrete ideological differences between the major parties. This, he believes, has transformed politics into a game of survival and self-interest.

Coalition or Conundrum?

Coalitions are nothing new to Nigerian politics. Professor Salihu acknowledges their constitutional legitimacy but voices skepticism about recent attempts, suggesting they are not entirely driven by national interest. Instead, he argues, they serve as platforms for personal ambition, with politicians willing to compromise on principles for strategic alliances. “Coalitions are just vehicles being prepared for people to actualize their ambitions,” he commented, reflecting on the potential implications for governance and public trust.

The Threat of One-Party Dominance

While debunking fears of Nigeria becoming a one-party state, Professor Salihu highlights the risks of one-party dominance. He draws parallels to other political systems while explaining the potential erosion of democratic choice. “It’s a tendency where one party is increasingly becoming dominant,” he notes, warning against the complacency that could invite political stagnation.

Democracy Beyond Voting

Expanding the discourse on democracy, Professor Salihu urges Nigerian citizens to engage beyond the ballot box. He cites the need for continuous citizen engagement as crucial for democratic health. “The idea of citizen engagement is a continuous process,” he emphasizes, pointing to the gap in public participation and its impact on policy development. According to Tribune Online, intrinsic to democracy is the power to hold leaders accountable—not just through voting but through active involvement in policy dialogues.

The Call for Enlightenment

To remedy Nigeria’s democratic shortcomings, Professor Salihu calls for a sustained enlightenment campaign. He believes the populace must realize their role as critical stakeholders and advocates for transparency and accountability. The message is clear: “No government would give you accountability and transparency unless you demand for them.”

This thrilling narrative of a dynamic discourse epitomizes the pressing need to rekindle ideology-driven politics in Nigeria, setting the stage for a brighter, more accountable future.