State of the Nation: Leaders, followers responsible for Nigeria’s woes- Fubara, Daniel, Adams, others

Nigeria’s ongoing socio-political challenges have been a source of constant discussion, and at the 6th annual lecture organized by Freedom On-line, notable figures weighed in on the root causes.

Held at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, the lecture, titled “Nigeria’s Socio-Political Challenges: Whose Fault, Leaders or the Led?”, brought together key figures like Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, former Ogun State governor Senator Gbenga Daniel, Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland Gani Adams, and others.

Their reflections placed responsibility for Nigeria’s current predicament squarely on both its leaders and citizens.

Governor Fubara, represented by former deputy governor Tele Ikuru, emphasized the importance of accountability in leadership.

He acknowledged the multitude of socio-political issues facing Nigeria, such as poor governance, economic stagnation, and weak institutions.

However, he argued that these challenges could only be overcome if leaders genuinely serve the people and remain accountable for their actions.

The Governor pointed out that the question of whether Nigeria’s woes stem from the leaders or the led is not a new one, and has been central to discussions in policy circles for years.

He suggested that both parties are culpable in the nation’s struggles. Leaders are entrusted with decision-making and the responsibility to guide the country toward progress.

However, he noted that the values and behaviors of the population influence the kind of leadership produced. Leaders, after all, are chosen from the same society that the citizens are a part of.

Fubara’s insights were echoed by others, such as Gani Adams, who stressed that Nigeria’s problems are not solely the result of governmental mismanagement. The people, too, bear responsibility for the state of the nation.

Adams revealed that citizens must take ownership of their role in democratic processes, as they have the power to influence leadership through their participation, voting choices, and accountability measures.

One of the most poignant remarks from the lecture came from Fubara, who pointed out the disarray within key institutions.

He specifically cited the electoral body, INEC, which he claimed has failed to regulate political defections adequately, undermining the democratic process.