Governor Siminalayi Fubara highlighted the factors hindering good governance in Nigeria during the SWAAYA Limited lecture, emphasizing public accountability, weak institutions, and citizen passivity. He called for active engagement from both citizens and civil society to demand accountability and promote ethical leadership. The discourse also stressed the importance of political integrity in electoral processes and the need for reform in the political and judicial systems. Various speakers echoed these sentiments, advocating for improvements in Nigeria’s governance.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State asserts that public accountability, weak institutions, the passivity of citizens, and civil society organizations have hindered the progress of good governance in Nigeria. He presented this perspective during the 6th Yearly Lecture of SWAAYA Limited, with the theme “Nigeria’s Socio-Political Challenges: Whose Fault, Leaders or the Led,” which took place in Lagos.
Represented by former deputy governor Tele Ikuru, Fubara underscored the interdependent relationship between leadership and the governed. He emphasized that passive citizens fail to demand accountability, thus perpetuating poor governance. The governor remarked, “There is a symbiotic relationship between leadership and followership. If the people demand accountability, credible leaders are more likely to emerge.”
Fubara outlined that elected officials hold the responsibility to serve the populace, yet citizens must exert their influence through informed choices and accountability mechanisms. He highlighted the ongoing struggles Nigeria faces, including economic stagnation, unemployment, and corruption, advocating for a shift in narrative around these issues.
The governor criticized electoral malpractices such as violence, rigging, and voter intimidation, which restrict the emergence of legitimate leaders. He also noted that weak public institutions and insufficient infrastructure exacerbate governance challenges.
Fubara condemned tribal politics and the lack of active engagement by leaders, asserting that these factors have undermined the democratic process. He remarked, “Instead of demanding good governance, some citizens support politicians based on ethnic or party loyalty rather than competence.”
He called for a proactive civil society and media, capable of exposing corruption and advocating for necessary policy reforms. Stressing the need for ethical leadership and electoral integrity, he urged political parties to prioritize candidates who demonstrate competence and integrity.
Fubara concluded that breaking the cycle of poor leadership demands a culture of civic engagement and accountability. He noted, “Until Nigerians take full ownership of the country’s problems and solutions, the cycle of poor governance and underdevelopment will persist.”
Similarly, former Ogun State governor Senator Gbenga Daniel echoed Fubara’s views on the critical importance of leadership quality in confronting Nigeria’s challenges. Other notable speakers, including Akinyemi Onigbinde, emphasized the imperative for politicians to conduct themselves properly to strengthen democracy.
Chief Gani Adams, Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, also advocated for a robust opposition, arguing that a lack of strong opposition could jeopardize good governance. Chief Olabode George lauded the lecture theme, asserting that understanding the historical context of Nigeria’s socio-political challenges is vital.
Managing Director Gabriel Akinadewo highlighted the urgent need for reform in Nigeria’s political and judicial systems, indicating that stagnation is not an option in today’s rapidly progressing world. He prompted attendees to contemplate the expectations of citizens concerning the upcoming 2027 presidential elections.
Prominent figures at the event included Prince Adewole Adebayo, presidential candidate of the Social Democracy Party, and other leaders from various sectors, all contributing to the vital discourse on Nigeria’s governance.
In conclusion, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s remarks reflect the pressing issues of governance in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for active citizen engagement and accountability. By addressing the systemic failures and encouraging ethical leadership, stakeholders can foster a more robust democratic process. The collective responsibility of citizens and leaders is crucial in overcoming the persistent challenges that plague the nation’s governance.
Original Source: businessday.ng
