POLITICS – THE MAGIC OF WINNING OR LOSING ELECTIONS IN NIGERIA

POLITICS – THE MAGIC OF WINNING OR LOSING ELECTIONS IN NIGERIA Winning an election in Nigeria is so consequential that members of the political class are often willing to go to any length—good or evil—to grasp political power. In that pursuit lies immense possibility, because political office grants control over the vast resources of the nation. The language of democracy is frequently invoked, not as a guiding principle, but as a justification for actions taken in the struggle for power. At the apex of leadership, power tends to concentrate heavily in the hands of a few. Those at the top often possess the authority to act—and sometimes to act without restraint. This sharply contrasts with what obtains in many developed countries, where institutions function independently and efficiently. In such societies, life is structured in ways that promote well-being: citizens eat well, exercise regularly, socialize meaningfully, and are nurtured within environments that reinforce sound values and discipline. These conditions help produce individuals who are mentally balanced and capable of living within the boundaries of the law. Even lawmakers themselves recognize the limits of their authority and operate within them. In Nigeria, however, winning an election—especially as a lawmaker—can create a sense of elevation above the law. This perception often leads to a troubling reality: those entrusted as custodians of the law sometimes violate it with impunity. Rather than serving the collective national interest, many political actors shape their decisions around ethnic, religious, or social loyalties. Another underlying issue is the nation’s approach to education and merit. A culture has developed in which many pursue certificates without acquiring the knowledge to defend them. In many professions, competence is essential for advancement; without adequate knowledge, one cannot climb the ladder of success. Politics, however, appears to defy this principle. In the Nigerian political space, attributes such as integrity, discipline, character, and even competence are too often overshadowed by influence, manipulation, and deception. It is not uncommon for two individuals to graduate with the same qualifications, yet their life trajectories diverge dramatically depending on their chosen paths. The one who enters politics may earn exponentially more than the one who pursues a professional or business career. This reality has elevated politics into what many perceive as the most lucrative occupation in the country—almost a “magic path” to wealth and influence—attracting countless individuals, with only a few exceptions. Meanwhile, the masses and voices across social media have, for years, appealed to lawmakers to moderate their remuneration and act with fairness in the distribution of national resources. These appeals, however, have largely gone unheeded. Paradoxically, the more citizens call for restraint and accountability, the more some political actors appear to expand their privileges, as though public scrutiny itself were an offense. As Nigeria approaches another election cycle, the pattern observed in the past seems to be repeating itself. The closer the nation moves toward elections, the more insecurity appears to rise—manifested in terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality. Many suspect that political interests may be entangled in this instability, as competing forces struggle to gain advantage or undermine opponents. From an international perspective, it may seem that external powers recognize the complexity of Nigeria’s political, economic, and social challenges. Assisting the country through these interconnected crises is no simple task; it requires more than external intervention. Ultimately, the responsibility lies largely with Nigerians themselves, especially when internal dynamics continue to fuel instability. The outlook, therefore, appears uncertain. Nigeria faces the difficult but necessary task of reconciling its internal divisions. This will require more than political maneuvering—it will demand deep understanding, genuine sacrifice, and a commitment to the common good. Only through such collective effort can the nation move toward a more stable and just future.