The Chancellor of the University of Communication in Benin City, Prof. Tonnie Iredia, has urged Nigerian politicians to prioritize governance over election preparations. In a recent interview on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ program, Iredia emphasized the need for politicians to focus on their current responsibilities rather than obsessing over future elections.
According to Iredia, Nigerian politicians tend to shift their attention to the next election, which may be years away, rather than concentrating on governance. This approach, he argues, detracts from the actual business of governing and undermines the institutionalization of government. The Chancellor stressed that there is a distinct period for electioneering, followed by elections, and then the focus should shift to governance.
Iredia believes that the media has a crucial role to play in holding politicians accountable and refocusing their attention on governance. He suggested that the media should set the agenda and remind politicians that it is not yet time for electioneering. Instead, the media should emphasize the need for politicians to deliver on their promises and showcase their projects and achievements.
By prioritizing governance, Iredia hopes that Nigerian politicians will become more accountable to the public and more focused on delivering tangible results. This shift in emphasis could help to improve the overall quality of governance in Nigeria and ensure that politicians are working in the best interests of their constituents. As the country continues to navigate its complex political landscape, the importance of effective governance and media scrutiny cannot be overstated.
