Naija News • 3h ago
Prebendalism: Tinubu is ‘governing’ for the few, not the many! By Olu Fasan
**Tinubu's Leadership: A Tale of Favoritism and Nepotism**
By Olu Fasan
In the history of Nigeria, we have never had a president like Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His style of governance has raised questions about the true meaning of democracy and the role of the president in serving the people. For the first time, Nigerians are witnessing a president who seems to prioritize the interests of a select few over the welfare of the majority.
Tinubu's rise to power was fueled by his ability to build a strong network of loyalists and cronies. This phenomenon, known as prebendalism, is a system where power and wealth are shared among a clique of individuals who have the president's ear. In Nigeria, this has been a recurring theme, where those who have access to the president are often rewarded with juicy contracts, appointments, and other perks.
Under Tinubu's watch, it appears that the spoils of office are being distributed among his loyalists, while the rest of Nigeria struggles to access basic necessities like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The president's actions seem to be guided by the philosophy that "there are no morals in politics," a saying attributed to Vladimir Lenin. This means that he is willing to do whatever it takes to maintain power and wealth, without regard for the consequences for the people.
For Nigerians who are struggling to make ends meet, Tinubu's leadership is a cruel joke. The country's economy is in shambles, with inflation, unemployment, and poverty levels soaring. Meanwhile, the president's allies are reaping the benefits of their association with him. It's a stark reminder that in Nigeria, those who have connections and influence often get ahead, while the rest are left behind.
The problem with prebendalism is that it creates a culture of dependency and corruption. When a select few are favored with power and wealth, they become entrenched in their positions and are unwilling to let go. This breeds a system of cronyism, where appointments and contracts are awarded based on loyalty rather than merit.
As Nigerians, we must ask ourselves if this is the kind of leadership we deserve. Do we want a system where the few are favored over the many? Or do we want a government that truly represents the interests of all citizens? The answer to this question will determine the future of our country.