By CHARLES CHIJIOKE
A prominent public affairs commentator, Jibrin Okutekpa (SAN), has delivered a scathing critique of Nigeria’s political culture, warning citizens against risking their lives in support of politicians whom he described as largely self-serving and ideologically hollow.
In a strongly worded statement, Okutekpa argued that many political actors in Nigeria only appear divided in public but are, in reality, united by shared personal interests that often run contrary to the welfare of ordinary citizens.
“It is foolhardy and foolish to fight for them and even fight against the political opponents of these politicians,” he said, condemning the growing trend of political violence among supporters. “It is not uncommon seeing supporters of politicians fighting, killing and maiming themselves for the politicians.”
He maintained that the supposed rivalries between political figures are often superficial, alleging that behind the scenes, alliances are easily brokered when personal gains are at stake. “While these politicians appear in the public eyes to be fighting in reality they are far from real quarrels. They are united in common against the Nigerian people,” Okutekpa stated.
The commentator expressed deep frustration over what he described as a pattern of political opportunism, where leaders abandon prior positions and reconcile with former adversaries for access to power and resources.
According to him, “They can and really have the capacity to easily renegotiate and make up for their selfish common interests.”
He further lamented what he sees as a lack of ideological commitment among Nigeria’s political elite, asserting that “most Nigerian politicians are into politics because of what they want to get for themselves and not what they can offer the people.” He added that many leaders “can change at any moment their selfish desires and interests are threatened” and “can go back to his or her vomits. No shame.”
Okutekpa also decried the state of governance in a country rich in resources but burdened by widespread poverty, questioning the quality of leadership and the barriers faced by reform-minded individuals. “It is irritating seeing poverty in the midst of plenty resources in Nigeria
Those who have ideas of turning things around are not allowed to,” he said.
Raising concerns about electoral integrity, he questioned the value of elections under the current system, claiming that citizens’ votes often do not translate into leadership outcomes.
“For me let us not waste human and material resources conducting elections. Our votes do not count,” he asserted, adding that some politicians who were allegedly denied mandates have since aligned with those he termed “oppressors.”
The statement also touched on broader societal issues, including voter complicity in electoral malpractice and the normalization of poor governance. “What is the difference between a politician who buys votes and the voter who sells his or her votes?” he asked, pointing to what he described as a shared responsibility for the country’s governance challenges.
Okutekpa warned that unless there is a shift toward principled, accountable leadership and a more politically conscious citizenry, Nigeria may continue to struggle with corruption, weak institutions, and stalled development. He concluded that “bad governance is being supported by those who profit from it,” urging Nigerians to rethink their role in sustaining the current system.
His remarks come amid ongoing political realignments and public debate over the direction of governance in Nigeria, with analysts noting that such sentiments reflect a growing frustration among citizens over accountability, transparency, and the credibility of democratic processes.
Observers say comments like Okutekpa’s could further fuel public discourse on electoral reforms, civic engagement, and the need for stronger institutions, though they also warn that widespread disillusionment, if unchecked, may deepen voter apathy and weaken democratic participation.
