"National woes in disguise of freedom" The dilapidating state of the Nigerian political sector; after (May 29 and June 12)

In the annals of Nigerian history, May 29 and June 12 stand as twin beacons, signifying hope, change, and the resilient spirit of a nation long shackled by military dictatorship. May 29, 1999, marked the country's return to civilian rule after years of military domination, while June 12, 1993, remains a poignant reminder of a stolen mandate and the quest for democratic governance, epitomized by the annulled election that was widely considered the freest and fairest in Nigeria's history. However, as the euphoria of these milestones has waned, a harsh reality has set in: Nigeria's political sector, instead of flourishing, has increasingly become a theater of dysfunction, corruption, and unfulfilled promises.

1. The Illusion of Democracy: When Nigerians trooped to the polls on June 12, 1993, and May 29, 1999, they envisioned a future where democracy would bring about accountability, transparency, and development. Unfortunately, these dates have become symbols of the paradoxical nature of Nigerian democracy—freedom in name, but captivity in practice. The political landscape is marred by a cycle of corruption, electoral malpractice, and a disconnect between the government and the governed.
2. Corruption: "The Unrelenting Plague" Corruption remains the most formidable challenge facing Nigeria's political sector. Successive administrations have pledged to eradicate this cancer, but these promises have often amounted to little more than political rhetoric. Public offices are seen as avenues for personal enrichment rather than service to the people. The political elite, insulated by power and influence, continue to siphon off public funds with impunity. This pervasive corruption undermines public trust in government institutions and stifles economic growth.
3. Electoral Malpractice and Voter Apathy: The electoral process, the very bedrock of democracy, is fraught with irregularities. Rigging, violence, and voter intimidation are commonplace, making a mockery of free and fair elections. The consequence is voter apathy; many Nigerians no longer believe in the power of their votes to effect change. This disengagement is dangerous for democracy, as it allows unscrupulous politicians to perpetuate their hold on power without accountability.
4. Governance Disconnect: There is a glaring disconnect between the government and the people. Policies are often crafted without a proper understanding of the needs and aspirations of the populace. The result is a series of initiatives that, while well-intentioned, fail to address the root causes of Nigeria's myriad problems. The voices of the youth, women, and marginalized communities are often ignored, leading to widespread disenchantment and social unrest.
5. Insecurity and Economic Hardship: The dilapidating state of the Nigerian political sector is further exacerbated by chronic insecurity and economic hardship. Boko Haram, banditry, and other forms of violence continue to claim lives and disrupt communities. The economic policies have failed to lift millions out of poverty, with unemployment and inflation reaching unprecedented levels. These issues are a direct result of poor governance and a lack of political will to address the systemic problems plaguing the nation.
6. The Way Forward: Despite the bleak landscape, the spirit of June 12 and May 29 offers a glimmer of hope. For Nigeria to overcome its national woes disguised as freedom, there must be a collective effort to strengthen democratic institutions and instill a culture of accountability and transparency. The electorate must be vigilant and proactive, demanding more from their leaders and holding them to account. Civil society organizations and the media have a crucial role in educating the populace and advocating for reforms.

Furthermore, electoral reforms are imperative to ensure that every Nigerian vote counts and that elections reflect the true will of the people. Anti-corruption measures must be enforced rigorously, with no sacred cows. Finally, inclusive governance that listens to and addresses the needs of all Nigerians, particularly the marginalized, is essential for the nation's progress.

In conclusion, the dream of a truly democratic Nigeria, as envisioned on June 12 and May 29, remains achievable. However, it requires an unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy, good governance, and social justice. Only then can Nigeria transform its national woes into a testament of genuine freedom and prosperity for all its citizens.