By Samuel Jekeli
Governance is the foundation upon which any nation functions, dictating the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of both the government and the governed. However, a critical issue in Nigeria today is the evident lack of understanding of governance systems by public officials and their aides.
This ignorance has led to misguided statements and policies that contradict the very principles of democracy, as recently exemplified by a presidential aide who suggested a death penalty for a woman who voiced her frustrations against the government.
To understand the gravity of such a statement, one must first appreciate the fundamental differences between democracy and monarchy. In a democratic system, power is derived from the people, and governance is conducted within the boundaries of laws and rights enshrined in the constitution. Citizens have the right to express their opinions, criticize their leaders, and demand accountability. This is the essence of democracy: a system where governance is subject to the will of the people, and leadership is earned, not imposed.
Conversely, in a monarchical system, power is concentrated in the hands of a sovereign ruler—often hereditary—who has significant control over governance without necessarily being accountable to the people. Historically, monarchs exercised absolute power, and dissent against the ruler was often equated with treason, sometimes punishable by death. This is a stark contrast to democratic systems where freedom of speech is a constitutional right and a key element of civic engagement.
The suggestion by a presidential aide that a citizen should face the death penalty for voicing her pain reflects a troubling misunderstanding of the system under which Nigeria operates. In a democracy, criticism of government policies, officials, and even the president is not only legal but necessary for a thriving and accountable governance structure. The right to free speech is protected under the Nigerian Constitution, and attempting to suppress dissent through threats or punitive measures undermines the very democratic values the nation is built upon.
The lack of understanding of governance by those in power often leads to the abuse of authority. Rather than viewing public office as a platform for service and accountability, many Nigerian officials operate with an entitlement mindset, perceiving any criticism as an affront to their status. This monarchical attitude has contributed to a culture of repression, where instead of addressing citizens’ concerns, o
Furthermore, equating criticism with death penalty is a deliberate misrepresentation of democratic principles. Speaking out against government policies or leaders does not amount to a crime to be met with a death penalty but is instead a fundamental right of every citizen in a democracy. If every instance of public criticism were treated as treasonous, then democracy would cease to exist, replaced by an autocratic regime where voices of opposition are silenced.
The role of government officials and their aides should be to educate themselves on governance principles and uphold democratic values. Instead of making reckless statements that expose their ignorance, they should focus on addressing the root causes of public dissatisfaction. Nigeria faces significant challenges, including economic hardship, insecurity, and corruption. Citizens expressing frustration is a natural response to these issues, and rather than seeking to punish them, the government should listen, engage, and find ways to improve governance.
A democracy thrives on dialogue, accountability, and responsiveness to the needs of the people. Leaders who embrace these principles build trust and foster national progress, while those who reject them create a widening gap between the government and the governed. It is imperative that Nigerian public officials and their aides undergo proper orientation on governance, democratic rights, and public engagement. Without this, the cycle of ignorance and authoritarian tendencies will continue to hinder the nation’s democratic growth.
Governance in Nigeria must be rooted in an understanding of democratic principles, respect for free speech, and a commitment to serving the people. The recent suggestion of the death penalty for a citizen expressing her frustrations is not just an isolated incident but a reflection of a larger problem—the ignorance of many public officials about the system they serve. Nigeria is not a monarchy where dissent is punishable by death; it is a democracy where constructive criticism should be met with dialogue and reforms, not threats. Until those in power grasp this fundamental truth, governance will remain ineffective, and citizens will continue to feel alienated from the very system meant to serve them.
• Jekeli writes from Centre for Social Justice, Abuja