There is a palpable sense of rage in the land, with many people expressing their anger towards those currently managing our commonwealth. Even Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, has succumbed to this widespread discontent and is now criticizing his own party. However, it is crucial to recognize that this frustration extends beyond Nigeria; it reflects a broader discontent with the global system. People around the world are fed up with how society is organized, with the poor blaming the rich for their plight. There is an urgent need for socio-political change, and sub-Saharan Africa, being the poorest region, should be the first to benefit from any paradigm shift. This context underscores the significance of the upcoming February election, which holds importance not just for Nigerians but for Africa and the global poor.
A notable trend is emerging among Nigeria’s youthful population, many of whom seem to support Peter Obi, the candidate of the Labour Party. They view him as a refreshing alternative to the “old-guard” rivals and believe he can bring about meaningful change for disillusioned young Nigerians. This growing support among the youth was acknowledged by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who, in endorsing Obi, directed his message primarily to the Nigerian youth. However, as we embrace the hope for change that Obi represents, it is essential to place the Nigerian political landscape within a global context. What we are witnessing in Nigeria is part of a larger movement for change that resonates with the aspirations of people worldwide.
The world is rich in resources, yet only a select few benefit from them. The wealthy often disregard environmental concerns while exploiting both the earth and the impoverished. This exploitation leads to ecological damage, with the poor bearing the brunt of its consequences. Recently, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, various groups protested against global corporations for their role in exacerbating environmental degradation. Activists from diverse backgrounds, including environmentalists and left-wing politicians, united in calling for a shift away from profit-driven motives to a focus on sustainability. They argued that without preserving nature, the economy cannot thrive in the future. Some even called for the abolition of the World Economic Forum, criticizing its structure, which they believe favors the powerful while excluding the general public.
As delegates arrived in Davos, ‘Debt for Climate’ activists protested at a private airport, demanding the cancellation of foreign debts for poorer countries to facilitate a global energy transition. The central issue at hand is a widespread demand for a paradigm shift toward shared prosperity, where the wealthy ensure that the poor have access to basic comforts in a sustainable manner. This includes the cancellation of debts for poorer nations, allowing them to alleviate pressure and adopt climate-friendly energy practices. However, political activists among these protesters seek a shift from democratic governance to socialism, presenting a conundrum. Past experiments with power shifts have shown that such changes can be unpredictable and potentially harmful.
Trust is another significant concern. If wealthy nations were to forgive debts, how can we be assured that our political leaders would distribute the benefits equitably? There is a fear that they might use the resources to fund their lavish lifestyles while keeping the masses impoverished. The elite often band together, leaving the poor to navigate the difficult task of finding a trustworthy leader who will not align with the elite’s interests. For example, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), who was once seen as a champion for the downtrodden, has become disillusioned in the eyes of those who once supported him. Many believed he would address corruption and redistribute wealth, akin to a modern-day Robin Hood. However, they were ultimately disappointed as he aligned himself with the political elite, leading to a loss of trust among his supporters.
Buhari’s transformation from a perceived outsider to a member of the political elite has left many feeling betrayed. His promises, such as selling presidential jets to benefit the poor, have not materialized. Instead, he has become associated with the very system he once sought to challenge. The reality is that not only did Buhari disappoint his supporters, but the elite-centric nature of our democracy also failed. He became ensnared in the complexities of realpolitik and succumbed to the temptations of power. The question now is whether Peter Obi’s potential victory will lead to a different outcome. While he may not identify as a green politician, he is known for his frugality, which raises the question of whether he can leverage this trait to address the governance issues plaguing Nigeria.
Obi must navigate the complexities of global and ideological thinking, as he cannot afford to let down the young people who are rallying behind him. Democracy is faltering worldwide, and there is a possibility that a new political paradigm could emerge from Nigeria, similar to how democracy and socialism once defined the West-East divide. Can Nigeria offer the world a third ideology—one that fosters a new economic and sociopolitical order aimed at addressing global demands for equity, justice, and climate action?
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