I read this, and decided to look at this well thought out comparison of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a ‘Pernicious leader’.
By Chioma Okoji
I read an an article referenced to Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, and I decided to look at its well thought out comparison of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as ‘Pernicious leader’.
I checked out this word ‘pernicious’ and got ‘having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way’.
Yeah, Tinubu does operate in a subtle way (use of clever and indirect ways of achieving something) and throwing caution to the wind too.
Comparing PBAT’s government in Nigeria to that of Mobutu Sese Seko: the long-time dictator of Zaire (then the Republic of Congo) is same in corruption, nepotism (favouring relatives, friends, or associates, especially by giving them jobs), repression (the action of subduing someone or something by force), and authoritarian rule (characterized by highly concentrated and centralized government power).
Such a comparison holds merit I would say. And it has potential consequences for Nigeria.
Looking at Motutu Sese Seku and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in terms of:
Corruption: Like Mobutu’s regime, this corrupt government has led to immense financial mismanagement. Where public funds are siphoned off by politicians and their allies. Thereby increasing inflation, and depreciations everywhere. Undermining economic growth and development, as resources intended for public services and infrastructure are diverted.
Erosion of Democratic Institutions: A lack of commitment to democratic principles has erode the rule of law. It has also weakened institutions and compromised checks and balances, leading to an increasingly authoritarian regime. The result is reduced political pluralism and civil liberties.
Social Unrest: In both PBAT’s and Mobutu’s regime, citizens are frustrated by corruption and lack of opportunities. Citizens are frustrated by very high costs of amenities. Therefore, as a result of poor governance, they engage in protests and civil potential violence.
Economic Decline: Foreign investment declined due to bad governance & corruption, which led to economic stagnation in many areas. Therefore, our healthcare, education, and infrastructure suffer. And adversely impacting the populace’s quality of life.
Marginalization of Key Groups: Both Governments favoured certain ethnic or political groups, while sidelining others. This exacerbates existing social divides, leading to heightened tensions and social fragmentation.
Human Rights Violations: Both authoritarian regimes have suppressed dissent and violated some human rights. There are arbitrary detentions, and other abuses against political opponents and activists, which has further undermined societal trust in the government.
International Isolation: In both, persistent corruption and human rights abuses lead to no or very limited foreign aid. Piled up loans, and low international standing. We await diplomatic sanctions in Nigeria just as Mobutu’s.
Brain Drain: In both, lack of opportunities and political instability resulted in skilled professionals seeking better prospects abroad. Both experienced talent exodus that hinders national development. Many youths and graduates turned to entrepreneurs just to get by.
Legacy of Discontent: Oppressions and corruption left a legacy of disillusionment and distrust among the populace in both cases. And that makes it difficult for future administrations to retain public trust.
Impact on Regional Stability: Given Nigeria’s strategic importance in West Africa, our instability or misrule now have ripple effects on neighbouring countries. There is currently a regional instabilities in West Africa. Same was the case as in Central Africa.
Luxury Properties: Mobutu owned numerous luxury properties both in Zaire and abroad. This included lavish homes, hotels, and estates. Notably, he had a grand residence in Gbadolite, which was often described as a lavish palace equipped with modern amenities.
Although Mobutu had significant investments within Zaire, he also invested in properties abroad. Particularly in Europe and the United States, which enabled him to secure wealth outside Congo amidst political turmoil. It’s same as Nigerian President, Tinubu is doing today.
Both got extravagant and immense personal wealth: Mobutu during his long reign, siphoned billions of Dollars from the state treasury. Thus, making him one of the wealthiest leaders in the world at the time through (Corruption and overt embezzlement). Tinubu’s is a combination of political connections, governance, business acumen and investments. Particularly in real estate, oil (plus crude), and other sectors, having significant holdings in different companies. There’s been plenty controversies and allegations, particularly regarding the source of his assets.
Today, 1st October, 2024 being Nigeria’s 64th Independence from Britain; majority of the people cared less as it tends to be insignificant. Same as Zaire, which gained independence from Belgium in June 30,1960.
As Mobutu’s autocratic rule continued and economic difficulties persisted, most citizens grew cynical or indifferent about celebrations of independence. Grievances and disillusionment increased, adding to feelings of frustration and disenchantment.
This comparison by Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), is by these points marked ✅✅✅ sadly though 😤😭🥵.
Chioma Okoji writes from Abuja.
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