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The Grip of Nigeria’s Political Old Guard: A Legacy of Power and Stagnation
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and one of the continent's largest economies, is at a critical juncture in its political development. For decades, the country has been dominated by a political elite often referred to as the "old men" of Nigerian politics—leaders who have held onto power through successive generations and refuse to exit the political stage. This trend raises urgent questions about the future of Nigeria's democracy, its political accountability, and the opportunities for younger generations to steer the country toward progress.
The Legacy of the Old Guard
Since Nigeria gained independence in 1960, the political landscape has been shaped largely by a select group of individuals. Many of these figures have had long and intertwined careers in military regimes, civilian governments, or both. They have become synonymous with the state, moving from one political office to another, maintaining influence through both official and unofficial channels. The names of these political heavyweights are not new: figures like Olusegun Obasanjo, Muhammadu Buhari, Ibrahim Babangida, and other veterans of the country’s political and military elite have cycled through positions of leadership, at times retiring only to re-emerge in subsequent elections or behind the scenes.
This continuity of power is deeply embedded in Nigeria’s political culture. For many Nigerians, it symbolizes a resistance to change. Despite widespread calls for reforms and a stronger focus on governance, the country’s political old guard clings to power, unwilling to step aside for younger and more progressive voices. Their dominance in politics has contributed to a stagnation in leadership, where new ideas struggle to emerge, and vested interests continue to dictate policy direction.
Why Won’t They Leave?
There are several factors that explain why Nigeria’s political "old men" continue to hold onto power.
1. Control of Resources: Nigeria is a resource-rich nation, particularly in oil. The old political elite have had decades to entrench themselves in the systems that control these resources. Holding onto political power is, in many cases, synonymous with maintaining access to wealth. This access allows them to fund campaigns, influence voters, and perpetuate their rule.
2. Political Patronage and Clientelism: The political system in Nigeria thrives on patronage networks. Older politicians have had years to build extensive networks of loyalists who rely on them for jobs, contracts, and political appointments. These networks are used to maintain control over both the political system and the electorate.
3. Weak Institutional Frameworks: Nigeria’s democratic institutions, while evolving, remain fragile. Electoral processes have been marred by irregularities, violence, and corruption. This environment benefits the political elite, who are skilled at navigating the weaknesses of the system to their advantage.
4. Youth Disengagement: While Nigeria’s population is overwhelmingly young—almost 70% of Nigerians are under the age of 30—the youth remain largely marginalized in formal politics. High unemployment rates, poor education, and economic disenfranchisement have left many young Nigerians disillusioned with the political process. This disenchantment has allowed the old guard to maintain their hold, as younger Nigerians often lack the political organization and resources to challenge the status quo.
The Implications for Nigeria
The continued dominance of older politicians in Nigeria has significant implications for the country’s development and democratic evolution.
1. Lack of Innovation: The world is changing rapidly, and nations that fail to adapt are left behind. Many of Nigeria's aging political elite are often disconnected from modern governance approaches, technological advancements, and progressive policies that could address the country’s pressing challenges, such as infrastructure deficits, unemployment, and education.
2. Generational Disconnect: With a youth-heavy population, there is a growing disconnect between the needs and aspirations of younger Nigerians and the policies pursued by the older politicians. Younger Nigerians are more connected to global trends, social justice movements, and digital economies, yet their voices are seldom heard in governance.
3. Perpetuation of Corruption: The old political class is deeply embedded in Nigeria’s corrupt practices. Their prolonged stay in power has not fostered an environment of accountability, and systemic corruption continues to hamper development efforts, diverting resources away from critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Hope for the Future?
Despite the overwhelming influence of the old political elite, there are signs of hope. Over the last decade, there has been a growing movement of young Nigerians who are increasingly active in politics and governance. The #EndSARS protests of 2020, for instance, signaled a new wave of youth activism that calls for accountability, transparency, and change. Political figures like Omoyele Sowore, Kingsley Moghalu, and others are challenging the old political structures, even if they face enormous hurdles in doing so.
Additionally, social media and digital platforms have given younger generations a new space to organize, share ideas, and mobilize for political causes. Nigeria’s youth may be disillusioned with traditional politics, but they are not without agency. With the right reforms—electoral reforms, campaign finance transparency, and stronger political institutions—there is potential for the younger generation to begin breaking the stranglehold of the old guard.
Conclusion
The old men of Nigerian politics have long dictated the country’s trajectory, often to its detriment. While their contributions to the country's history are undeniable, their continued grip on power represents a significant obstacle to the country's progress. For Nigeria to truly evolve into a modern, dynamic democracy, it must create space for younger, innovative voices in its political discourse. Without this shift, the country risks remaining trapped in a cycle of stagnation, where the politics of the past continue to dictate the future.