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“Better is a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish king, who will no more be admonished. For out of prison he cometh to reign; whereas also he that is born in his kingdom becometh poor.” – Ecclesiastes 4:13-14 KJV
These words from Ecclesiastes, though written millennia ago, resonate eerily with the current situation in Nigeria. With the recent assendance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Presidency, many Nigerians were left wondering if this is a new era of prosperity or a continuation of the economic struggles that have plagued the nation for years. While Tinubu came to power promising change and a “renewed hope,” his early actions are raising serious concerns, particularly for the vast majority of Nigerians who live below the poverty line.
A Tale of Bad Governance: Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Leadership and Its Impacts on Nigeria
My aim in this essay is to use several broad strokes of incidents and actions to understand this wise maxim from King Solomon. As we reflect and delve into the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it’s intriguing to draw parallels with the ancient wisdom of Ecclesiastes 4:13-14. The passage warns of the folly of an unadvisable ruler and highlights the danger of a kingdom where citizens, though born free, remain impoverished. As Nigeria navigates through these turbulent times, these verses shine a glaring light on the current administration’s actions, decisions, and the state of the nation.
President Tinubu’s tenure embodies the paradox presented in Ecclesiastes. His governance has been characterised by criticism for making decisions that seem to prioritise grandeur over the grassroots, exacerbating economic disparities and fostering growing discontent among the population. The increase in the size of government and bureaucracy is a significant reflection of this. Rather than streamline operations and cut unnecessary expenses, the government has expanded its bureaucratic walls, leading to higher costs that the nation can scarcely afford. This bloated government apparatus drains resources that could otherwise be directed toward critical sectors such as poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, and infrastructure—areas that desperately need attention to elevate the standard of living for the average Nigerian.
In recent months, President Tinubu’s policies have sparked considerable controversy, first with the Labour Unions demands for increased minimum wage and the nationwide protests against bad governance and poverty. One of the most contentious issues has been the recent disproportionate increase in salaries within the judiciary compared to the broader public sector. While judiciary staff salaries saw a stunning 300% raise, civil service workers were left with a mere increment, capped at a 70,000 Naira minimum wage. This disparity is a stark injustice, serving as a clear indicator of misaligned priorities. In a country where many struggle daily to make ends meet, such fiscal decisions are perceived as a slap in the face to hard working citizens, highlighting an insensitivity to the plight of the common people.
Additionally, amidst widespread poverty and economic hardship, President Tinubu’s acquisition of a private jet and a yacht stands out as particularly tone-deaf. These luxurious purchases, made with state funds, occur against a backdrop of protests and increasing frustration over economic mismanagement. For citizens witnessing such opulence, the message is clear: the government’s hierarchy appears to detach itself from the realities facing ordinary Nigerians. This perception only fuels further resentment and distrust in the administration.
Rhetoric and body language are crucial facets of leadership, and President Tinubu’s approach in these areas has been lacking empathy and relatability. His public speeches and demeanour often fail to offer solace or demonstrate solidarity with the populace. Instead of unifying the nation or showing a deep understanding of the citizens’ struggles, the rhetoric sometimes appears dismissive or disconnected. This perceived indifference exacerbates public unrest and hampers efforts to cultivate a sense of national belonging and shared purpose.
The leadership challenges facing Nigeria under President Tinubu resonate deeply with the biblical warning. As articulated in Ecclesiastes, a ruler who cannot be counselled—a leader who ignores wise advice and remains rigid in unfounded decisions—risks the prosperity, stability, and welfare of their kingdom. The passage warns of a ruler emerging from humble beginnings only to lead a nation into deprivation, a fate that seems uncannily reflective of Nigeria’s current state under Tinubu.
These verses from Ecclesiastes is a potent allegory for Nigeria today. They underscore the consequences of leadership that fails to heed counsel and neglects the essential duty of uplifting its people, especially the disenfranchised. As Nigerians continue to navigate these challenging times, the call for introspection, advocacy, and reform has never been more critical. The hope is that Nigeria’s leadership reflects deeply on these warnings and actively work towards a future where prosperity is inclusive, and governance is attuned to the voices and needs of all its citizens.
The one year of Tinubu’s presidency have been characterised by a series of decisions that have had a significant, and often negative, impact on the lives of ordinary Nigerians. The most prominent example is the removal of the fuel subsidy, a policy that, while intended to improve fiscal discipline, has resulted in a dramatic spike in fuel prices. This has had a ripple effect across the economy, leading to inflation, increased transportation costs, and a dramatic unmitigated rise in the cost of living.
The repercussions of this policy have been far-reaching:
● Increased Poverty: The rise in fuel prices has disproportionately impacted the poor, who spend a significant portion of their income on transportation and essential goods. This has pushed many families deeper into poverty, further exacerbating existing social inequalities.
● Stagnant Economic Growth: While the removal of the subsidy aimed to reduce government spending and encourage investment, the resulting economic turmoil has actually slowed down economic growth. Businesses are struggling to operate in the face of rising input costs, and many are forced to lay off workers, leading to further unemployment.
● Social Unrest: The economic hardship caused by the fuel price hike has sparked widespread protests and social unrest. The frustration of the populace is palpable, with many questioning the government’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens.
While the removal of the fuel subsidy was a controversial decision, it’s not the only policy raising eyebrows. Tinubu’s administration has also implemented a number of other measures that have been met with criticism:
● The unification of the exchange rate: This decision, while aimed at streamlining the currency market, has resulted in a significant devaluation of the naira, making imports more expensive and further pushing up inflation.
● The proposed “cash-less” economy:** This initiative, aimed at promoting digital transactions and reducing corruption, has been met with resistance from those who lack access to financial services and rely on cash-based transactions.
● The unresolved question of the minimum wage: This controversial move of capping the minimum wage at 70,000 Naira, though not implemented yet, has caused widespread outcry, with critics arguing it will exacerbate poverty and undermine the living standards of the working class.
The impact of these policies is felt most acutely by the marginalised and vulnerable populations of Nigeria. The poor, who were already struggling to make ends meet, are further bearing the brunt of the economic hardship. The government’s response to these challenges has been met with mixed reactions. While some argue that these measures are necessary for long-term economic stability and growth, others are critical of the lack of proper planning and clear measurable implementation plan, leading to unforeseen consequences for the majority of Nigerians.
In recent moves to galvanise a more constructive discourse on governance, a prominent group in the country known as the “Patriots,” led by the esteemed former Commonwealth Secretary General Chief Emeka Anyaoku, reached out to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu with a series of advisories aimed at steering the country towards a more equitable and effective path. This assembly of distinguished Ciceros, comprising former statesmen, academics, and influential business leaders, gathered their collective wisdom to address the pressing security, ethnic, social and economic challenges facing Nigeria today. Their recommendations focused on critical areas such as the Structure of the country, Constitutional challenges, economic reform, job creation, education, and measures to alleviate the growing tensions, cracks and poverty, reflecting a deep concern for the welfare of the country and the Nigerian populace. However, the President’s puerile dismissal of this sage counsel raises significant questions about the direction of his administration and the likely ramifications for the nation’s future.
The advice tendered by the Patriots was not merely a call for a reevaluation of current policies; it represented a clarion call for urgent action to address the systemic issues that have perpetuated poverty and economic stagnation in Nigeria. Anyaoku and his comrades highlighted the ineffectiveness of existing structure and strategies, urging a shift towards workable frameworks that foster genuine nationhood and innovation, strengthen the economy, and cultivate a sustainable future for Nigerians. Their recommendations included a blend of immediate corrective measures and long-term strategic planning, intended to ensure that governance is not only responsive but also anticipatory of emerging challenges. By ignoring these insights, President Tinubu risks isolating himself from a vital reservoir of knowledge and experience that could enrich his administration’s approach and bolster the country’s recovery trajectory.
The implications of President Tinubu’s disregard for the advice of the Patriots are profound. In a nation characterised by socio-economic inequalities and a growing chasm between the elite and the impoverished, leadership that shuts out critical perspectives can exacerbate existing tensions and hinder collective progress. The wisdom shared by Anyaoku and his coalition aligns with a broader, global understanding of governance that emphasises collaboration, transparency, and accountability. By sidelining these voices, the President not only undermines trust in his administration but also sends a troubling message about the efficacy of democratic dialogue and the importance of consultative governance.
As the nation continues to grapple with rampant inflation, stagnant wages, and escalating unemployment rates, the need for inclusive decision-making has never been more crucial. The resistance to heeding sound advice could lead to policy missteps, potentially resulting in public disillusionment and unrest. Citizens who feel unheard or marginalised may assert their frustrations through protest or other forms of disengagement from the political process, further destabilising an already precarious situation. The inability to forge strong alliances with thought leaders and civil society can isolate the administration, diminishing its capacity to effect meaningful change and heightening the risk of political alienation among the populace.
Moreover, the broader context of governance in Tinubu’s Nigeria indicates and tends more and more, to a trend towards diminishing civic engagement and participation. By ignoring a group structured to foster national unity and genuinely seek solutions, the Tinubu administration potentially stifles the vibrancy of democratic discourse. This stagnation not only hampers governmental accountability but also deprives the nation of innovative ideas that could lead to much-needed reforms. In essence, the refusal to engage with the Patriots poses a double-edged sword: it may shield Tinubu from dissenting voices, but it simultaneously renders his administration vulnerable to criticism for lacking inclusivity, foresight, and a genuine commitment to addressing the pervasive issues affecting the Nigerian people.
The choice to ignore the well-meaning counsel of esteemed Nigerians, such as Emeka Anyaoku and the Patriots, emerges as a pivotal moment in President Tinubu’s leadership. It signifies a potential foreclosure on opportunities for meaningful dialogue and constructive governance, with dire implications for the nation’s socio-economic fabric. Moving forward, it is incumbent upon the administration to reconnect with civil society and heed the wisdom of its people, for the health of the nation depends not only on its leaders but also on its collective pursuit of a brighter future. The path ahead requires humility, openness, and an unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
The isolation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from the stark realities faced by the average Nigerian has become increasingly evident in both his speeches and the rhetoric of those around him. As the nation grapples with significant challenges—including widespread poverty, escalating insecurity, and a deteriorating economy—the President’s addresses often resonate with a tone that seems detached from the lived experiences of citizens. The frequent references to broad economic growth or optimistic projections, which might seem uplifting from a distance, starkly contrast the hard truths on the ground. In urban centres like Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, Abuja and rural hinterlands alike, the pain of inflation, unemployment, and insecurity looms large, creating a dissonance between the presidential narrative and the existential struggles of the populace.
This apparent disconnect is reminiscent of historical examples, such as the old French aristocracy before the 1789 revolution, who persistently indulged in their privileges while the masses endured suffering and deprivation. Just as the French nobility failed to heed warnings and exacerbated social tensions, Tinubu’s administration appears to be navigating a perilously similar course. His administration’s focus on infrastructure investment and economic development—while undeniably important—often glosses over the urgent needs for social welfare programs and targeted support for the vulnerable. With millions of Nigerians facing food insecurity, a lack of adequate healthcare, and a deteriorating educational environment, the optimism expressed in presidential speeches rings hollow to a citizenry desperate for tangible improvements in their day-to-day lives.
Moreover, the security challenges plaguing Nigeria further exacerbate the sense of isolation surrounding the President. With rampant violence from insurgents, bandits, and kidnappers permeating many regions of the country, the population desires a more empathetic and responsive leadership. Yet, the prevailing sentiment in the streets reflects profound disillusionment. Citizens feel that those in power who live in fortified homes and convey an air of exclusivity seem disconnected from the constant fear of violence and instability that affects their communities. The lack of substantive measures or genuine dialogue aimed at addressing security concerns illustrates a troubling trend where the leadership remains ensconced in an echo chamber that disregards pressing societal needs.
History serves as a cautionary tale, reiterating that the ruin of nations often stems from unaddressed internal distress rather than external threats. The rise of discontent among the populace, if left unchecked, can lead to catastrophic consequences. In Nigeria, long-term systemic issues—ranging from corruption and poor governance to social inequality—have festered, creating a condition ripe for unrest. As citizens find their voices in protests and calls for accountability, the separation between authority and the governed widens, eroding trust in leadership and institutions. Efforts to suppress dissent through rhetoric or force may momentarily silence criticisms, but such approaches ultimately do not resolve the underlying grievances. They could instead kindle further volatility and discontent, pushing the nation toward a precipice.
As Nigeria stands on a precarious edge, the introspection of leadership is paramount. The realities of poverty, insecurity, and dissatisfaction cannot simply be wished away with platitudes or ignored in favor of well-drafted speeches. Leadership must evolve to acknowledge and confront the plight of citizens with sincerity and urgency. History shows that when collective suffering is silenced while those in power remain oblivious, it invariably leads to a reckoning. The lessons from the past underscore the importance of nurturing inclusivity and empathy in governance, as these are the cornerstones of sustained peace and progress. For President Tinubu, the time is now to bridge the widening chasm between his administration and the daily struggles of Nigerians, lest the course of history repeats itself once more, with devastating consequences for the nation.
Where Does Nigeria Go From Here? The current situation in Nigeria presents a stark reality. The nation faces a multitude of challenges, including poverty, inequality, and a fragile economy. The question that hangs in the air is whether Tinubu’s administration can truly address these issues and usher in an era of prosperity for all Nigerians.
The answer to this question depends on a number of factors:
● The government’s commitment to social welfare: Will the government prioritise the needs of the poor and marginalised populations, or will it continue to implement policies that benefit the elite at the expense of the majority?
● The effectiveness of economic policies: Will the government implement policies that encourage investment, create jobs, and promote inclusive growth?
● The government’s responsiveness to the needs of the people: Will the government listen to the concerns of the populace and take steps to address their grievances?
In reflecting on the state of Nigeria today, it becomes apparent that there is a profound disconnect between the nation’s potential and its reality—a sentiment echoed in the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 4:13-14. As the passage illustrates, a wise yet humble child surpasses an old, foolish ruler who refuses to heed counsel. Similarly, Nigeria, despite having achieved independence over six decades ago, struggles to realize the promise of a prosperous, equitable society due to persistent failures in governance. This enduring challenge, rooted in systemic inadequacies, underscores the pressing need for introspective leadership and transformative action.
For 64 years, Nigeria has grappled with hurdles that hinder the establishment of effective governance. Whether in the form of rampant corruption, inadequate public services, or compromised institutions, these barriers have stymied progress and perpetuated cycles of inefficiency and inequality. The inability to address such foundational issues speaks to a broader malaise within the nation’s political and social fabric—one that requires a deep, collective reimagining of leadership and civic responsibility. It is not just a question of political will but of cultural and ethical renewal across all levels of society.
Despite this disheartening scenario, a glimmer of hope lies in the small yet resilient segment of Nigerians who challenge these narratives. These individuals, driven by commitment to transparency, innovation, and community welfare, represent the forward-thinking ethos desperately needed to guide Nigeria towards a brighter future. Their efforts to nurture a culture of learning, accountability, and cooperation stand in sharp contrast to the entrenched practices that undermine national progress. This divergence highlights the critical role such visionary leadership can play in fostering meaningful change.
Ultimately, the challenges Nigeria faces mirror the cautionary tale of Ecclesiastes, where the stubborn refusal to listen and adapt leads to stagnation and decline. It is a reminder that the journey to effective governance is not only about power or position but about wisdom, humility, and the willingness to be corrected. As Nigeria looks to the future, it must draw lessons from both its history and its people, embracing a path that prioritizes collective well-being over individual gain. Only by doing so can the nation hope to transcend its current struggles and fulfill its potential as a beacon of progress and stability within the global community.
The next few years will be critical for Nigeria. The Tinubu led government faces a daunting task, requiring a comprehensive and effective approach to tackle the country’s challenges. Only time will tell if Tinubu’s reign will be remembered as a time of progress and prosperity, or as an era marked by the deepening of poverty and the erosion of hope for the majority of Nigerians.
©️ AI-KO
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Agbeze Ireke Kalu Onuma, AI-KO, is a Storyteller and Cultural Curator, a writer, a public speaker, and a strategic consultant. His practical Christian faith in Christ’s teachings, Christian Philosophy and Stoic Concepts forms the bedrock of his life’s quest for practical living, meaning and excellence and relationships. His insightful contributions have enriched various mainstream, online and social media outlets. AI-KO’s compelling narratives, advocacy for cultural richness, and unwavering commitment to community service resonate deeply, leaving a lasting impact. Connect with him at kmekonint@yahoo.com http://medium.com/@iagbeze
http://ireke.wordpress.com
