PREAMBLE
Against electoral regulations, the Nigerian political machineries have since roared into hyper actions towards 2027 general elections which are clearly 18 months ahead. As far back as last year (2024), major electricity poles and billboards in FCT, Abuja and other major cities in the country started adorning political campaigns of leading actors.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently acknowledges this reality at a One-Day Stakeholders’ Roundtable on “Premature Political Campaigns” organized by The Electoral Institute (TEI) in Abuja, and called for robust multi-stakeholder action to address the growing challenges by political actors, which continue to undermine the integrity of the electoral process and distort the level playing field.
Whereas, governance at all levels seems to have been relegated to the background. This has generated a growing concern. The nation’s leaders seem more focused on advancing their political interests than on serving the people. The trend is alarming, and it’s imperative that citizens demand better
.
THE SACRIFICIAL LAMB’S TAG:
Invariably, governance has become a sacrificial lamb, offered up to the altar of political expediency. The consequences are dire: heightened insecurity, wobbled economy, spiral unemployment index, inefficient public services, corruption, and a lack of accountability, among others. The average citizen suffers, while politicians reap the benefits.
CALL TO ACTION:
With the aforementioned, it’s time for Nigerians to reclaim their government. Collectively, we must demand transparency, accountability, and effective governance incorporating the provision of basic amenities of life. We must hold our leaders to a higher standard and ensure that their actions align with the public interest; not the current self-centeredness.
WAY FORWARD:
To achieve the above, we need some structural changes:
- a) Empowering Our Institutions: Independent institutions, like the judiciary and electoral commission, must be allowed to function without interference.
- b) Promoting Transparency at All Levels: Government actions and decisions should be transparent, with citizens having access to information about how their taxes are being spent and budgets executed.
c,) Holding Leaders Accountable: Politicians must be held accountable for their actions, with consequences for corruption and inefficiency.
CONCLUSION:
The 2027 elections present an opportunity for Nigerians to demand a better future. We should not be contented in sacrificing governance on the altar of political interest. Instead, let’s prioritize the people’s interests and build a brighter future for our nation.
As citizens, we should stay informed; stay up-to-date with current events and hold our leaders accountable.
We should also participate in the electoral process and demand transparency and accountability from our leaders.
We should raise our voices and demand better governance from our leaders.
Finally, we at the Penpushing Media believe that a better future for Nigeria is possible. Let’s make our voices heard and demand governance that truly serves the people.
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