The question of whether Nigerian politicians are people-oriented or self-seeking is both a legal and moral inquiry with profound implications for democratic governance, rule of law, and socio-economic development. This article examines the conduct of political actors in Nigeria through the lens of constitutional obligations, public accountability, and democratic expectations, ultimately offering a balanced perspective grounded in observable realities.
1. Constitutional and Legal Obligations of Political Officeholders
The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), clearly outlines the responsibilities of public officers. Section 14(2)(b) affirms that:
“The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.”
Furthermore, the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, enshrined in the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution and enforced by the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal, imposes standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability.
In this regard, politicians are not only political actors but fiduciaries — stewards entrusted with public resources for the common good. A deviation from this fiduciary duty transforms political leadership into a platform for personal gain, which, in turn, erodes the public trust and undermines democratic governance.
2. Evaluative Criteria: People-Oriented vs. Self-Seeking Leadership
a. Policy Orientation
A people-oriented politician is proactive in initiating policies that improve the quality of life of citizens — in education, healthcare, infrastructure, security, and economic development. By contrast, self-seeking politicians focus on policies or budgets that directly or indirectly benefit themselves, their business interests, political sponsors, or ethnic coalitions.
b. Transparency and Accountability
Public officers are required under the Freedom of Information Act, 2011 and various anti-corruption laws to conduct public affairs with transparency. Unfortunately, many Nigerian politicians avoid scrutiny, resist legislative oversight, and often violate procurement and financial regulations. This suggests a tilt toward personal rather than public interest.
c. Engagement with the Electorate
A genuine, people-oriented leader maintains continuous engagement with constituents, listens to their needs, and provides feedback. Conversely, self-seeking politicians often reappear only during election cycles, engage in vote-buying, and use patronage systems to retain power.
d. Wealth Accumulation and Lifestyle
One of the clearest indicators of self-seeking leadership is the unexplained accumulation of wealth. Politicians whose wealth exponentially grows during or after public office, often without credible sources of income, are presumed to have enriched themselves through abuse of office — a breach of public trust under Nigerian law.
e. Legacy and Impact
The lasting impact of a politician’s tenure can speak volumes. People-oriented politicians leave a legacy of institutions, laws, and infrastructure. Those who prioritize self-interest often leave behind abandoned projects, debts, and disillusioned citizens.
3. Contemporary Nigerian Political Landscape: An Unsettling Diagnosis
While it is important to avoid sweeping generalizations, empirical evidence and public sentiment indicate that a majority of Nigerian politicians exhibit self-seeking tendencies. Notable instances of corruption — from the fuel subsidy scam to pension fraud and electoral malpractices — illustrate a pattern of governance that prioritizes personal interest over national development.
That said, Nigeria has witnessed outliers — public figures who have shown genuine commitment to public service. For instance, Mr. Peter Obi (former Governor of Anambra State) is often lauded for his prudent financial management and people-centric policies. Similarly, historical figures such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo are remembered for visionary leadership, particularly in education and healthcare.
4. Legal and Civic Pathways to Reform
To reverse the trend of self-seeking leadership and encourage people-oriented governance, the following mechanisms must be strengthened:
Enforcement of Anti-Corruption Laws: Agencies like the EFCC and ICPC must act independently and prosecute political officeholders without fear or favour.
Civic Education and Electoral Reforms: Voters must be educated to vote based on issues, not ethnic or monetary incentives. Electoral laws should be enforced to penalize vote-buying and manipulation.
Judicial Independence: The judiciary must remain impartial and enforce the law, particularly in matters of election petitions, abuse of office, and asset declarations.
Constitutional Reforms: There is a need to restructure incentives and privileges attached to political offices to discourage office-seeking for personal enrichment.
Conclusion
The Nigerian political class stands at a crossroads. While some politicians have demonstrated that governance can be people-oriented, the prevailing culture still leans heavily toward self-interest. A combination of legal reform, institutional accountability, and civic responsibility is necessary to ensure that leadership in Nigeria genuinely serves the people, in accordance with constitutional ideals and democratic values.