Gov. Siminalayi Fubara discusses the challenges of governance in Nigeria, citing a lack of accountability, weak institutions, and passive citizen involvement as key issues. During a lecture in Lagos, he emphasized the importance of active engagement from citizens and civil society to foster accountability and integrity in leadership. The discussion highlighted the need for reforms in the political and judicial systems to enhance democracy and governance ahead of the upcoming presidential elections.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has pointed out that Nigeria struggles with good governance due to a lack of public accountability, weak institutions, and the passivity of citizens and civil society organizations. He expressed these views during the 6th Yearly Lecture hosted by SWAAYA Limited, emphasizing the need for active citizen engagement to foster accountability and effective leadership in the nation.
During his address, Fubara emphasized the symbiotic relationship between leadership and followership, stating that leaders originate from the communities they govern. He argued that a demand for accountability from citizens would enhance the emergence of credible leaders. Conversely, he warned that continuing passivity among citizens would lead to persistent bad governance in Nigeria.
Fubara noted that elected officials, including governors and legislators, have a responsibility to implement national policies serving the public interest. He criticized issues like electoral violence, rigging, and voter intimidation, asserting that these practices hinder the emergence of sound leadership. Furthermore, he highlighted the detrimental effects of weak institutions and poor infrastructure on governance.
In his remarks, Fubara criticized the tribal politics prevalent in Nigeria and the lack of engagement from leaders, which he believes negatively impacts democracy. He urged citizens to prioritize competence over ethnic or party loyalty when supporting political candidates. Fubara underlined the importance of citizen engagement in governance through public hearings and advocacy for accountability between elections.
Emphasizing the role of civil society and the media in combating corruption and promoting policy reform, he asserted that both leaders and citizens need to take responsibility for addressing leadership challenges. He stressed the need for a focus on public interests in policymaking, urging an end to the cycle of poor governance through active civic engagement and ethical leadership.
Fubara also reiterated that Nigeria cannot rely on foreign intervention to resolve its issues and that it is imperative for Nigerians to take ownership of their problems to effect change. In agreement, Senator Gbenga Daniel remarked that many of Nigeria’s challenges stem from inadequate leadership, supporting Fubara’s observations on this critical issue.
Other participants in the lecture, including Akinyemi Onigbinde and Chief Gani Adams, echoed similar sentiments regarding the necessity of strong leadership and accountability within the political landscape. They collectively called for reforms to strengthen democracy and effective governance.
Chief Olabode George acknowledged the historical context of Nigeria’s socio-political challenges and praised the choice of lecture theme. Additionally, Gabriel Akinadewo emphasized the pressing need for reforms in Nigeria’s political and judicial systems, asserting that stagnation cannot be afforded in a rapidly advancing world.
The lecture served as a crucial platform for discussing the expectations of Nigerians leading up to the 2027 presidential election, contemplating the responsibilities of both citizens and elected representatives in ensuring accountability.
In summary, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s address highlights the critical factors hindering good governance in Nigeria, such as public accountability, weak institutions, and citizen passivity. The discourse emphasizes the necessity for active engagement from both citizens and civil society organizations in advocating for effective leadership and policy reform. Furthermore, the conversation underscores the urgent need to reform Nigeria’s political and judicial systems as part of a collective effort towards improving governance.
Original Source: businessday.ng
