Editorial

Our Expectations In 2021

Published

5 years ago

December 31, 2020

Millions of Nigerians cheered the New Year on January 1, 2020, by taking part in rambunctious
gatherings across the country. In many parts of the nation, citizens attended crossover services at their locations of worship. Heavy fireworks rang through neighbourhoods while those who could provide exotic drinks, uncorked them, cheered and libated.
The year 2020 has gone with its innumerable challenges that tested the souls of many Nigerians. 2021 is here with hopes of better times for the nation and its people. Last year was definitely a very difficult one for most Nigerians with the economy deeply in the throes of a debilitating recession. No thanks to the Coronavirus pandemic that devastated the global economy.
Unemployment stood at an all-time high while power supply remained epileptic virtually throughout the year, although put at between 3000 and 5000 megawatts. Fuel price rose multiple times while food inflation reached a historic high. The business climate was disconsolate and low oil price at $40.47 a barrel presaged a bleak outlook for our beleaguered economy and the citizens.
Beyond the economy, last year produced several moments of painful uneasiness for the nation. The Niger Delta Avengers threatened renewed militancy in the Niger Delta region and for some time created grave uncertainties about the safety of oil activities. The federal government, after initial hesitation, began a peace negotiation which eventually resolved the issues and restored peace.
Infrastructural deficiencies persevered in hunting the country. Many of our expressways were so awful that they were described as death traps. They remain so. The rail system failed to witness much improvement. It seemed like the renovation of the National Assembly complex became more vital than the rehabilitation of roads, promoting governance failure and mediocrity.
President Muhammadu Buhari’s failed campaign promises were abysmal misery. The government couldn’t dent the rising unemployment figures. The war on corruption was resisted and frustrated in the courts because Buhari made little effort to get his party members and his government to buy into the fight. Several sensational corruption recoveries were made by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), but with a few trials and convictions.
Security is still dodgy. The most unreassuring is the carnage by herdsmen. Sadly, the federal government executes a policy of willful neglect of the problem, burying its head in the sand like the proverbial ostrich, thus, eliciting resentments in the country. Boko Haram’s continued onslaught is a confirmation of the intelligence failure of the Nigerian military. No amount of armaments would turn the scale of the war until the intelligence dilemma is rectified.
Hence, in 2021, Nigerians would like the government to address the economy, job creation and electricity supply. These are key sectors never to be disregarded wilfully and causelessly. Unlike last year, Nigerians expect a better economic atmosphere this year. Through a vibrant economy, people are empowered to find sustenance no matter how small. A harsh economy can compel people to resort to despicable means of survival.
Also, our wish for 2021 is the total elimination of insurgency to improve our security. This will require a continuation of armed combat from the armed forces. It would, however, impose even more improved intelligence, raising the security consciousness of communities to monitor their society against infiltration. Let 2021 become the year Nigeria will defeat extremism.
We would like to see the disentanglement of a strong anti-corruption movement to lead the campaign and create traction in the war against corruption. As the year proceeds, we hope to catch a glimpse of successful prosecutions and sanctions of corrupt public officials, who must be compelled to return all their loots upon conviction.
This year should terminate the secession bid of Biafrans, threats of resumption of militancy by Niger Delta and Oduduwa Republic militants, in addition to persistent conflicts across the country. They indicate unease regarding the centralised and lopsided nature of the Nigerian federation. We would like to see the implementation of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s National Conference to address the issues.
Respect for the rights of all citizens to free speech, entitling them to exercise their fundamental human rights rather than discreetly arresting and penalising those who hold contrary views to government policies, is another significant issue Nigerians would like to be discontinued in 2021. The power machinery must realise that this is a democratic dispensation; people have the right to speak up and complain.
The New Year is an opportunity for citizens to get more engaged in governance by asking critical questions, joining groups and ensuring that they get value out of public resources. Our docility over the years has encouraged our leaders to mismanage the nation’s resources as it has facilitated unaccountability and massive corruption.
For governors across the states, this New Year is an avenue to become more humane or benignant by treating state employees and pensioners as full members of the human family. Salaries and pension entitlements should be paid when they are due, and there should be increased openness and transparency in the management of state resources.
It is expected that Mr. President will talk to Nigerians and explain his policies to them further in 2021. Sadly, Buhari hardly talks to the people on whose behalf he exerts executive powers. Nigerians should hear their president and see him relate with them. It is impolite for the president to ignore Nigerians but conveniently speak about the country to the international community each time he travels abroad.
We find it unpleasantly ingratiating to see President Buhari and his family journey abroad for medical attention while the average Nigerian is impelled to seek Medicare in our necessitous health institutions. This year, we need to see Mr. President lead by example after he avowed that Nigerians should not travel abroad again for Medicare. If all the teaching hospitals in the country are properly equipped, there will be no need for medical-related oversea trips.
Again, we strongly desire to see the police and other security outfits suitably schooled in their respective primary responsibilities in 2021. The several incidences of public harassment and extortions have reached a crescendo and, therefore, demand crucial reforming approaches. Certainly, Nigerians expect more in the New Year.
Despite the challenges, the Nigerian state is not beyond redemption. It has only been mismanaged. So, the New Year presents Buhari another chance to address the expostulations. He must tackle the power supply problem, revamp the education and health sectors, and rout insurgency. Insecurity is rife with armed robbers, herdsmen and kidnappers having a field day. Unfortunately, there is no sign yet that this government has got a handle to the numerous problems.

Editorial

Charge Before New Rivers Council Helmsmen

Published

4 days ago

September 29, 2025

The Tide

On the 30th of August, Rivers people trooped out to participate in local government elections conducted across the state. These elections, which produced new chairmen and councillors for the 23 local government areas (LGAs), were organised by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). The exercise has ushered in a new crop of grassroots leaders whose shoulders now bear the responsibility of steering the affairs of their respective councils. With the polls concluded and winners duly announced, the time has come for the newly elected officials to roll up their sleeves and begin the hard work of governance.

According to the results declared by RSIEC, the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured a dominant lead, winning chairmanship seats in 20 of the 23 local government councils, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clinched the remaining three. This outcome not only reflects the current political dynamics in the state but also places a significant weight of expectation on the shoulders of the APC-led councils to justify the confidence reposed in them by the electorate. It is imperative that political rhetoric now gives way to tangible development, especially at the grassroots level where government is felt most directly.

Following the elections, the successful chairmen were officially sworn into office by the former Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas. The solemn ceremony marked a transition from campaign promises to the reality of public service. With their inauguration complete, the time for celebration has ended; the time for delivery has commenced. The electorate now awaits meaningful action that reflects the hopes and aspirations of the voting public.

As helmsmen of their various LGAs, these leaders must quickly settle down to work. Their constituents expect them to provide direction, formulate policies, and execute programmes that will uplift communities long neglected. The local government tier is closest to the people and, as such, must rise above politicking to meet the everyday needs of the citizenry. It is not enough to occupy office; they must make their impact visibly and positively felt across their domains.

The Supreme Court ruling mandating direct allocation of funds to local governments—although not yet fully implemented—is a welcome development that underscores the autonomy of the third tier of government. Once this is operationalised, the excuses often cited for underperformance will no longer hold water. With funds directly accessed from the Federation Account, council administrations will be better empowered to meet the developmental needs of their localities, if only they manage resources judiciously and prioritise the right projects.

The onus is now on the chairmen to contribute meaningfully to the broader development of Rivers State. The state government cannot and should not be expected to do everything. Local government councils have defined responsibilities—ranging from rural infrastructure, primary healthcare, and basic education to waste management and local security—that must be adequately addressed. It is high time they stopped passing the buck and started acting as the elected leaders they are.

We extend our congratulations to all who emerged victorious in the elections. However, with this victory comes great responsibility. It is no longer about party affiliations or electoral campaigns; it is about governance. The chairmen must launch people-centred projects that will genuinely improve the lives of the rural populace—projects in water supply, road maintenance, school renovation, and youth empowerment, among others. Let their tenure be remembered for its impact, not its slogans.

Central to their mandate should be the welfare of workers. Council employees form the engine room of local governance, and their morale significantly affects service delivery. The new chairmen must ensure regular payment of salaries, staff training, and a conducive working environment. Neglecting this vital aspect will only hinder whatever grand plans they may have for their LGAs.

It is also essential to institute a robust peer review mechanism. The new LG officials should not operate in isolation; rather, they should learn from one another, share ideas, and compete constructively in a bid to outperform each other in service delivery. Healthy competition among council areas will drive innovation and foster accelerated development. Such a system will also help the public identify high-performing councils for emulation.

Given the typically short tenure of council administrations, it is crucial that they focus on projects that are realistic and impactful. Time and resources should not be wasted on white elephant ventures that are neither sustainable nor beneficial to the people. Instead, chairmen should pursue programmes that match their timelines and address immediate community needs.

Peace and security must remain a cardinal objective for all council steersmen. Regardless of who facilitated their election or what political loyalties they hold, they must ensure peace reigns in their areas. Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of tension and distrust. These leaders must work closely with traditional rulers, youth groups, and civil society organisations to maintain law and order.

A critical understanding must also prevail—that chairmen are leaders of the people, not just leaders of political parties. They must conduct themselves as impartial administrators serving all constituents, irrespective of political affiliations. Additionally, they must work harmoniously with the state governor, who remains the leader of the state. Petty rivalries and political infighting serve no purpose in the development agenda.

Now that the elections are over and governance has begun, it is essential for these chairmen and councillors to adopt an inclusive approach. They must carry everyone along—party members and opposition alike—in their development plans. Creating division or playing favourites will only fracture communities and stall progress. Leadership at the grassroots demands fairness, equity, and a listening ear.

Rivers people have played their part by coming out to vote. The baton has now been passed to the new council helmsmen. They must seize the opportunity to leave lasting legacies in their communities. History will not judge them by the number of rallies they held or the speeches they gave, but by the quality of life they brought to their people. Let them not squander this moment.

Editorial

No To Political Office Holders’ Salary Hike

Published

2 weeks ago

September 22, 2025

The Tide

Nigeria’s Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has unveiled a gratuitous proposal to increase the salaries of political and public office holders in the country. This plan seeks to fatten the pay packets of the president, vice-president, governors, deputy governors, and members of the National and State Assemblies. At a time when the nation is struggling to steady its economy, the suggestion that political leaders should be rewarded with more money is not only misplaced but insulting to the sensibilities of the ordinary Nigerian.

What makes the proposal even more opprobrious is the dire economic condition under which citizens currently live. The cost of living crisis has worsened, inflation has eroded the purchasing power of workers, and the naira continues to tumble against foreign currencies. The majority of Nigerians are living hand to mouth, with many unable to afford basic foodstuffs, medical care, and education. Against this backdrop, political office holders, who already enjoy obscene allowances, perks, and privileges, should not even contemplate a salary increase.

It is, therefore, not surprising that the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has stepped in to challenge this development. SERAP has filed a lawsuit against the RMAFC to halt the implementation of this salary increment. This resolute move represents a voice of reason and accountability at a time when public anger against political insensitivity is palpable. The group is rightly insisting that the law must serve as a bulwark against impunity.

According to a statement issued by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the commission has been dragged before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Although a hearing date remains unconfirmed, the momentous step of seeking judicial redress reflects a determination to hold those in power accountable. SERAP has once again positioned itself as a guardian of public interest by challenging an elite-centric policy.

The case, registered as suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1834/2025, specifically asks the court to determine “whether RMAFC’s proposed salary hike for the president, vice-president, governors and their deputies, and lawmakers in Nigeria is not unlawful, unconstitutional and inconsistent with the rule of law.” This formidable question goes to the very heart of democratic governance: can those entrusted with public resources decide their own pay rises without violating the constitution and moral order?

In its pleadings, SERAP argues that the proposed hike runs foul of both the 1999 Nigerian Constitution and the RMAFC Act. By seeking a judicial declaration that such a move is unlawful, unconstitutional, and inconsistent with the rule of law, the group has placed a spotlight on the tension between self-serving leadership and constitutionalism. To trivialise such an issue would be harum-scarum, for the constitution remains the supreme authority guiding governance.

We wholeheartedly commend SERAP for standing firm, while we roundly condemn RMAFC’s selfish proposal. Political office should never be an avenue for financial aggrandisement. Since our leaders often pontificate sacrifice to citizens, urging them to tighten their belts in the face of economic turbulence, the same leaders must embody sacrifice themselves. Anything short of this amounts to double standards and betrayal of trust.

The Nigerian economy is not buoyant enough to shoulder the additional cost of a salary increase for political leaders. Already, lawmakers and executives enjoy allowances that are grossly disproportionate to the national average income. These earnings are sufficient not only for their needs but also their unchecked greed. To even consider further increments under present circumstances is egregious, a slap in the face of ordinary workers whose minimum wage remains grossly insufficient.

Resources earmarked for such frivolities should instead be channelled towards alleviating the suffering of citizens and improving the nation’s productive capacity. According to United Nations statistics, about 62.9 per cent of Nigerians were living in multidimensional poverty in 2021, compared to 53.7 per cent in 2017. Similarly, nearly 30.9 per cent of the population lives below the international poverty line of US$2.15 per day. These figures paint a stark picture: Nigeria is a poor country by all measurable standards, and any extra naira diverted to elite pockets deepens this misery.

Besides, the timing of this proposal could not be more inappropriate. At a period when unemployment is soaring, inflation is crippling households, and insecurity continues to devastate communities, the RMAFC has chosen to pursue elite enrichment. It is widely known that Nigeria’s economy is in a parlous state, and public resources should be conserved and wisely invested. Political leaders must show prudence, not profligacy.

Another critical dimension is the national debt profile. According to the Debt Management Office, Nigeria’s total public debt as of March 2025 stood at a staggering N149.39 trillion. External debt obligations also remain heavy, with about US$43 billion outstanding by September 2024. In such a climate of debt-servicing and borrowing to fund budgets, it is irresponsible for political leaders to even table the idea of inflating their salaries further. Debt repayment, not self-reward, should occupy their minds.

This ignoble proposal is insensitive, unnecessary, and profoundly reckless. It should be discarded without further delay. Public office is a trust, not an entitlement to wealth accumulation. Nigerians deserve leaders who will share in their suffering, lead by example, and prioritise the common good over self-indulgence. Anything less represents betrayal of the social contract and undermines the fragile democracy we are striving to build.