Nigerian politicians and the political class seem to be both the nation’s greatest builders and most significant threats, wielding double-edged influence. This paradox is evident in the way governors and lawmakers easily reach agreements on national issues through the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), despite divisive rhetoric dominating public discourse.
Social media groups, such as large WhatsApp platforms, reflect the complexities of Nigerian society. These groups, comprising individuals from diverse backgrounds, often exhibit sharp divisions and differences in opinion, frequently along north-south lines. While this phenomenon contributes to groupthink, conspiracy theories, and suspicion, it’s essential to acknowledge that shared values and identities naturally lead people to think alike and show similar interests.
However, this shouldn’t compromise objectivity in national debates. The debates on Tax reform bills illustrate this point, with reactions from Northerners and Southerners becoming predictable based on their regional identities. Similarly, leaders and scholars often display predictable attitudes toward national issues, reflecting anti-government sentiment or pro-government sentiment based on their regional affiliations.
Despite divisive comments and heated exchanges on social media, politicians in power play a crucial role in bridging divisions and dousing tensions. For instance, leaders like Bola Ahmed Tinubu have demonstrated the complexities of Nigerian politics by adopting different stances on restructuring depending on their position of power.
This paradox suggests that politics can be a double-edged sword for Nigeria. While subjective narratives can mobilize hate and anti-government sentiment, politics can also foster harmony and cooperation through moderation. The consensus reached by Nigerian governors on rejecting VAT increases in proposed Tax reforms bills exemplifies this.
Tension in society often stems from a lack of understanding of good public engagement, conduct, and emotional intelligence. Ideal politics can refine character, promote self-awareness, and foster responsible individuals. As Aristotle emphasized, politics is essential for human development, enabling individuals to reach their full potential and live virtuously.
Scholars like Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum also highlight the importance of politics in promoting human capabilities and well-being. Research shows that ideal politics can positively impact society, promoting social cohesion, reducing conflict, and increasing life satisfaction and happiness.
Inspirational leaders like Nelson Mandela and Abraham Lincoln have demonstrated the importance of prioritizing human rights, free speech, and respect for diversity. By understanding good political principles, citizens can promote empathy, respectful language, and diversity, ultimately creating a more harmonious and prosperous society.
However, it’s sad that the same politicians who contribute to nation-building through their moral consciousness and positive values while in power often fuel negative emotions and hate while outside of power. This portrays Nigerian politics as a double-edged sword. If those in power prioritize regional interests over national unity, the country may descend into chaos. Additionally, if citizens relinquish the principles and practices of politics solely to politicians, they will find themselves merely ‘fighting’ in the name of discourse or debates.
In essence, Nigerian politics requires a delicate balance between competing interests and ideologies. By promoting tolerance, objectivity, and emotional intelligence, citizens can help create a more harmonious society. As Aristotle said, “The state is a creation of nature, and man is by nature a political animal.” This suggests that, It is only when all of us, whether as private citizens, public figures, in positions of power, or outside of authority, embrace the principles and practices of ideal politics, that our country can truly progress.
