In a compelling dialogue at the National Conference on the Future of Democracy in Nigeria, Honorable Dr. Gbenga Olawepo Hashim provided a sobering assessment of the nation’s current political and judicial landscape. His insights challenge the common narrative that Nigeria’s problems are purely economic, suggesting instead that the country is grappling with a profound “poverty of values” that threatens the very foundation of its democratic institutions.
The Problem with Institutional Recruitment
Dr. Hashim highlighted a critical flaw in the formation of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). While some recommendations for independence—such as funding via a first-line charge—were accepted during the transition from military rule, the method of recruiting leadership remains a point of contention. He argues that the current system allows the executive to maintain too much control by appointing “dodgy” individuals who are easily manipulated.
“When you have a transparent process of recruitment and the person that is being appointed is subjected to public debate, he will hold his loyalty to society rather than to few people who appoint him in government.” [04:46]
Material Poverty vs. Poverty of Values
One of the most striking parts of the discussion centered on the phenomenon of vote-buying. While many attribute this to the economic hardship facing Nigerians, Dr. Hashim drew a historical parallel to the 1950s to illustrate that integrity is not dictated by wealth. He noted that even when Nigerians were materially poorer, they held their political leaders to higher standards.
“It’s not a question of material poverty; it’s about poverty in values. We have to go back and strengthen our value system because it is these intangible things—values, culture—that build society.” [06:01]
He further emphasized this point by contrasting the past and present:
“In the 50s, if you give them a bag of rice, they will not vote for you. They will still vote for their trusted political leaders. But Nigerians today, some of them who eat rice every day, if you give them a cup of rice, they are ready to vote for you.” [05:51]
The Independence of the Judiciary
The conversation also turned to the judiciary, an institution often seen as the last hope for the common man. Dr. Hashim expressed concern that while judges are now better compensated than ever before, their independence seems more compromised than it was even under military dictatorship. He suggests that financial corruption has achieved what brute force could not.
“What military dictatorship could not do, money corruption is doing now. Judges are now more paid than they have ever been paid… they have no reason not to stand for justice and equity.” [07:21]
Looking Toward 2027
As Nigeria looks toward the 2027 elections, the fear of widespread vote-buying looms large. However, Dr. Hashim offered a glimmer of hope, suggesting that collective will can override financial manipulation. He believes that if the majority of the population is truly committed to change, the sheer volume of voters will make individual bribes inconsequential.
“There will be vote buying, but it’s not going to be consequential if majority of people are ready really to vote for change. You can’t buy millions of people when they are out to really vote.” [06:34]
Ultimately, Dr. Hashim’s message is a call to action for all Nigerians to reclaim their cultural and moral values. Without a foundation of integrity, material achievements and institutional structures will continue to crumble under the weight of corruption.
Watch the full interview here: https://youtu.be/Csh7n_qacKE