FOOD IS READY POLITICIANS: A CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF NIGERIAS POLITICAL ELITE

FOOD IS READY 

POLITICIANS:

 A CRITICAL 

EXAMINATION 

OF 

NIGERIAS 

POLITICAL ELITE

 

 

 

              BY: 

     HARUNA .AS

Dedication

 

Dedicated to the Nigerian people, whose resilience and hope inspire me.

 

 

To the future generations of Nigerians, may this book inspire positive change.

 

 

and 

 

 

To the suffering and smiling Nigerians, may your voices be heard and your struggles be alleviated.

Preface

This book is a product of my fascination with the complexities of Nigerian politics and the intriguing phenomenon of "Food is Ready" politicians. As a historian, I have always been drawn to the nuances of power dynamics, the machinations of political elites, and the resilience of ordinary people in the face of adversity.

Through this book, I aim to provide a critical examination of the "Food is Ready" politician phenomenon, situating it within the broader context of Nigerian history, politics, and culture. By exploring the historical antecedents, cultural underpinnings, and social implications of this phenomenon, I hope to shed light on the intricate web of power relations that shape our democracy.

This book is not a partisan treatise, nor is it a personal vendetta against any individual or group. Rather, it is a scholarly endeavor aimed at sparking critical thinking, civic engagement, and national reflection.

I hope that this book will contribute meaningfully to the ongoing conversation about Nigeria's future and the role of citizens in shaping our democracy.

- Haruna A. Sylvester 

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is a nation of immense potential and promise. With its rich natural resources, diverse culture, and resilient people, Nigeria should be a beacon of hope and prosperity for the continent. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story.

Years of mismanagement, corruption, and poor governance have left Nigeria with a plethora of challenges. From poverty and inequality to insecurity and infrastructure decay, the country's problems seem insurmountable. At the heart of these challenges is a political system that prioritizes the interests of a few over the needs of the many.

The phrase "Food is Ready" has become a metaphor for the corrupt and self-serving practices of some Nigerian politicians. It symbolizes the idea that politics is a means to an end, where the end is personal enrichment and the means is the exploitation of power and resources. This book is an examination of this phenomenon, its roots, its consequences, and its implications for Nigeria's future.

Through a combination of historical analysis, cultural critique, and social commentary, this book aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the "Food is Ready" politician and the system that enables them. It is a call to action, urging Nigerians to demand more from their leaders and to work towards creating a better future for themselves and their country.

Ultimately, this book is about the power of citizenship and the importance of collective action in shaping Nigeria's destiny. It is a reminder that the future of the country is not in the hands of politicians alone, but in the hands of its citizens.

 

Theorizing the "Food is Ready" Politician: A Conceptual Framework

This section undertakes a critical examination of the concept of the "Food is Ready" Politician, a phenomenon that has become increasingly ubiquitous in Nigeria's political landscape. To provide a nuanced understanding of this concept, this discussion will be situated within a conceptual framework that interrogates the intersections of power, governance, and culture in Nigeria.

Conceptualizing the "Food is Ready" Politician

A critical analysis of the "Food is Ready" Politician reveals a complex web of power dynamics, governance structures, and cultural contexts that shape political behavior in Nigeria. This conceptual framework comprises three key dimensions:

- Power Dynamics: This dimension examines how politicians wield power and influence to achieve their goals, often through patronage networks, clientelism, and other forms of political manipulation.

- Governance Structures: This dimension interrogates the formal and informal institutions that shape political behavior in Nigeria, including the role of traditional institutions, civil society organizations, and international actors.

- Cultural Context: This dimension explores the role of culture, tradition, and history in shaping political values and norms in Nigeria, including the impact of colonialism, post-colonialism, and globalization on the country's political culture.

Defining the "Food is Ready" Politician

The concept of the "Food is Ready" politician is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has evolved over time. At its core, it refers to a politician who prioritizes personal gain and self-interest over the welfare and needs of their constituents. This definition encompasses a range of behaviors and characteristics, including:

- Prebendalism: The use of public office for personal enrichment and benefit, often through corrupt means such as embezzlement, bribery, and nepotism.

- Patronage: The distribution of favors, contracts, and resources to loyal supporters, friends, and family members, rather than based on merit or public interest.

- Clientelism: The creation and maintenance of relationships between politicians and their constituents, where the politician provides goods and services in exchange for loyalty and support.

- Neopatrimonialism: The use of state resources and institutions for personal gain and to maintain power, often through corrupt means.

 

By situating the concept of the "Food is Ready" Politician within this conceptual framework, this discussion provides a nuanced understanding of the complex power dynamics, governance structures, and cultural contexts that shape political behavior in Nigeria. However, it is important to note that these characteristics are not unique to Nigeria, but Nigeria’s peculiar historical, cultural, and socio-economic context has created a distinct brand of politics that is both fascinating and troubling.

The "Food is Ready" politician is often a master of manipulation, using a combination of charm, intimidation, and coercion to achieve their goals. They may use their power and influence to:

- Exploit state resources: For personal gain, such as embezzling public funds, allocating contracts to cronies, or using state-owned enterprises for personal benefit.

- Maintain patronage networks: By distributing favors and resources to loyal supporters, they ensure a steady supply of votes and loyalty.

- Suppress opposition: Through intimidation, coercion, or co-option, they eliminate potential threats to their power and maintain a tight grip on the political landscape.

The "Food is Ready" politician is a product of Nigeria's complex history, which has created a unique blend of traditional, colonial, and post-colonial influences. The next section will explore the historical antecedents of this phenomenon, examining how Nigeria's pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial experiences have shaped the country's political culture.

The Concept of Prebendalism

Prebendalism is a crucial concept in understanding the "Food is Ready" politician. It refers to the use of public office for personal enrichment and benefit. This can take many forms, including embezzlement, bribery, and nepotism.

In Nigeria, prebendalism has become a pervasive feature of the country's political landscape. Politicians often view public office as a means to accumulate wealth and power, rather than as a platform to serve the public interest.

The Role of Patronage

Patronage is another key characteristic of the "Food is Ready" politician. This involves the distribution of favors, contracts, and resources to loyal supporters, friends, and family members, rather than based on merit or public interest.

In Nigeria, patronage networks are often used to maintain power and influence. Politicians will allocate contracts, jobs, and other benefits to their loyal supporters, who in turn will provide them with votes, loyalty, and other forms of support.

Clientelism and Neopatrimonialism

Clientelism and neopatrimonialism are also essential concepts in understanding the "Food is Ready" politician.

Clientelism refers to the creation and maintenance of relationships between politicians and their constituents, where the politician provides goods and services in exchange for loyalty and support.

Neopatrimonialism, on the other hand, refers to the use of state resources and institutions for personal gain and to maintain power. This can involve the use of state-owned enterprises, government contracts, and other resources for personal benefit.

In Nigeria, clientelism and neopatrimonialism are often used in conjunction with prebendalism and patronage to maintain power and influence.

The Impact of the "Food is Ready" Politician

The "Food is Ready" politician has a significant impact on Nigerian society.

Firstly, they undermine the rule of law and the principles of democracy. By using public office for personal gain, they create a culture of impunity and undermine the accountability mechanisms that are essential for democratic governance.

Secondly, they exacerbate poverty and inequality. By allocating resources to their loyal supporters, they create a system of patronage that benefits a small elite at the expense of the broader population.

Thirdly, they undermine the legitimacy of the state. By using state resources and institutions for personal gain, they create a perception that the state is corrupt and that politicians are more interested in enriching themselves than in serving the public interest.

Overall, the "Food is Ready" politician is a pervasive feature of Nigerian politics. They use public office for personal gain, maintain patronage networks, and undermine the rule of law and the principles of democracy.

 

Historical Antecedents: Pre-Colonial, Colonial, and Post-Colonial Contexts

The "Food is Ready" politicians is not a recent phenomenon in Nigeria. Rather, it has its roots in the country's complex history, which has created a unique blend of traditional, colonial, and post-colonial influences.

- Pre-Colonial Contexts

In pre-colonial Nigeria, power was often exercised through patronage networks and clientelistic relationships. Traditional rulers and chiefs would allocate land, resources, and other benefits to their loyal supporters, who in turn would provide them with labor, goods, and services.

This system of patronage and clientelism was not unique to Nigeria, but it was particularly pronounced in the country's pre-colonial societies. The Hausa-Fulani emirates of the North, the Yoruba kingdoms of the West, and the Igbo communities of the East all had their own systems of patronage and clientelism.

-  Colonial Contexts

The colonial period saw the imposition of a new system of governance, which was characterized by authoritarianism, paternalism, and exploitation. The British colonial authorities created a system of indirect rule, which relied on traditional rulers and chiefs to govern their subjects on behalf of the colonial power.

This system of indirect rule reinforced the patronage networks and clientelistic relationships that existed in pre-colonial Nigeria. Traditional rulers and chiefs were able to maintain their power and influence by collaborating with the colonial authorities, who in turn relied on them to govern their subjects.

-  Post-Colonial Contexts

The post-colonial period saw the emergence of a new class of politicians, who were determined to maintain their power and influence in the face of growing competition and opposition. These politicians often relied on patronage networks and clientelistic relationships to mobilize support and maintain their power.

- The First Republic (1960-1966) was marked by intense competition and conflict between different regions and ethnic groups. Politicians often relied on patronage networks and clientelistic relationships to mobilize support and maintain their power.

- The Military Era (1966-1999) saw the imposition of a new system of governance, which was characterized by authoritarianism and militarism. The military regimes of the time often relied on patronage networks and clientelistic relationships to maintain their power and influence.

- The Fourth Republic (1999-present) has seen the emergence of a new class of politicians, who are determined to maintain their power and influence in the face of growing competition and opposition. These politicians often rely on patronage networks and clientelistic relationships to mobilize support and maintain their power.

In conclusion, the "Food is Ready" politician is a product of Nigeria's complex history, which has created a unique blend of traditional, colonial, and post-colonial influences. The next section will examine the conceptual frameworks that underpin the exercise of power and governance in Nigeria.

Conceptualizing Power and Governance in Nigeria

Understanding the "Food is Ready" politician requires a nuanced understanding of the conceptual frameworks that underpin the exercise of power and governance in Nigeria. This section will examine three key concepts: prebendalism, neopatrimonialism, and clientelism.

- Prebendalism

Prebendalism refers to the use of public office for personal enrichment and benefit. This concept is central to understanding the "Food is Ready" politician, who often views public office as a means to accumulate wealth and power.

In Nigeria, prebendalism is perpetuated by a weak system of accountability, which allows politicians to use public resources for personal gain. This has created a culture of impunity, where politicians feel emboldened to engage in corrupt practices.

- Neopatrimonialism

Neopatrimonialism refers to the use of state resources and institutions for personal gain and to maintain power. This concept is closely related to prebendalism, as both involve the use of public office for personal benefit.

In Nigeria, neopatrimonialism is perpetuated by a system of patronage, where politicians allocate resources and benefits to their loyal supporters. This has created a culture of dependency, where citizens rely on politicians for access to basic services and resources.

- Clientelism

Clientelism refers to the creation and maintenance of relationships between politicians and their constituents, where the politician provides goods and services in exchange for loyalty and support.

In Nigeria, clientelism is perpetuated by a system of patronage, where politicians allocate resources and benefits to their loyal supporters. This has created a culture of reciprocity, where citizens feel obligated to support politicians in exchange for access to basic services and resources.

 

Implications for Governance

The conceptual frameworks of prebendalism, neopatrimonialism, and clientelism have significant implications for governance in Nigeria. They perpetuate a culture of corruption, impunity, and dependency, which undermines the effectiveness of institutions and the rule of law.

To address these challenges, it is essential to strengthen institutions, promote transparency and accountability, and foster a culture of citizenship and civic engagement.

 

2. A Historical Overview of Nigerian Politics: From Independence to the Present

Nigeria's political history can be divided into four distinct periods: the First Republic (1960-1966), the Military Era (1966-1999), the Fourth Republic (1999-present), and the brief interlude of the Second Republic (1979-1983).

- The First Republic (1960-1966)

The First Republic of Nigeria (1960-1966) was a tumultuous period marked by intense competition and conflict between different regions and ethnic groups. The country's three main regions - the Northern Region, the Western Region, and the Eastern Region - were dominated by three main ethnic groups: the Hausa-Fulani, the Yoruba, and the Igbo. This ethnic and regional configuration played a significant role in shaping the country's political landscape and laid the foundation for the challenges that Nigeria still faces today, including the phenomenon of "Food is Ready" politicians.

 

Regional and Ethnic Politics

During the First Republic, regional and ethnic interests took precedence over national interests. The three main regions and ethnic groups competed fiercely for power, resources, and influence. This competition often manifested as ethnic and regional tensions, which sometimes escalated into violence.

The Hausa-Fulani-dominated Northern Region, for example, sought to maintain its historical dominance over the country. The Yoruba-dominated Western Region, on the other hand, sought to assert its influence and challenge the Northern Region's dominance. The Igbo-dominated Eastern Region, meanwhile, sought to protect its interests and maintain its autonomy.

 

The Role of "Food is Ready" Politicians

In this context, "Food is Ready" politicians emerged as key players in the country's political landscape. These politicians, who were often driven by personal interests and a desire for power and wealth, exploited ethnic and regional tensions to further their own agendas. They used their positions of power to accumulate wealth and distribute patronage to their supporters, often along ethnic and regional lines. This created a system of clientelism, where politicians provided benefits to their supporters in exchange for loyalty and votes.

 

Consequences and Legacy

The intense competition and conflict between regions and ethnic groups during the First Republic had far-reaching consequences for Nigeria. It contributed to the country's first military coup in 1966, which marked the beginning of a long period of military rule. However, according to Major Kaduna Chukwemeka Nzeogwu, his reason for the first military coup was aimed at ousting 10 percenters  from government. 

The legacy of this period continues to shape Nigeria's politics today. The phenomenon of "Food is Ready" politicians remains a major challenge, as politicians continue to exploit ethnic and regional tensions to further their own interests.

Moreover, the country's ethnic and regional divisions remain a major obstacle to national unity and development. Addressing these challenges requires a fundamental transformation of Nigeria's political culture and a shift away from the "Food is Ready" mentality that has dominated the country's politics for so long. 

- The Parliamentary System: A Framework for Governance and Abuse

In Nigeria's First Republic, the parliamentary system was adopted as the framework for governance, modeled after the British Westminster system. This system aimed to provide a representative and accountable government, consisting of the legislature, executive, and cabinet.

The legislature was composed of elected representatives from various constituencies, responsible for making laws. The executive was headed by the Prime Minister, responsible for implementing policies and programs. The cabinet comprised ministers appointed by the Prime Minister, responsible for various portfolios.

Despite its potential, the parliamentary system was plagued by challenges and abuses. Leaders often prioritized the interests of their ethnic or regional groups over national interests. Corruption and nepotism were rampant, with politicians and government officials exploiting their positions for personal gain, enriching themselves and their families.

This phenomenon of prioritizing personal interests over national interests is exemplified by the concept of "Food is Ready" politicians. These leaders, driven by self-interest and a desire for power and wealth, saw their positions as opportunities to accumulate riches and influence.

Some notable examples of leaders who indulged in "Food is Ready" practices during the First Republic include Sir Ahmadu Bello, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. As prominent leaders, they were accused of using their positions to promote ethnic and regional interests, engaging in corrupt practices, and accumulating wealth.

The parliamentary system, intended to provide a framework for governance and accountability, ultimately enabled the abuses and corruption that characterized Nigeria's First Republic. The legacy of this period continues to shape Nigeria's politics today, highlighting the need for reform and a shift away from the "Food is Ready" mentality.

- The Collapse of the First Republic

The First Republic of Nigeria came to a dramatic end in January 1966, when a group of army officers staged a coup d'état. The coup was led by three main conspirators: Majors Chukwuma 'Kaduna' Nzeogwu, Emmanuel Ifeajuna, and Adewale Ademoyega. The coup resulted in the deaths of several top politicians, including Prime Minister Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Premier of the Northern region Sir Ahmadu Bello, and Premier of the Western Region Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola.

The coup was a culmination of various factors, including corruption, political instability, and ethnic tensions. The country was plagued by regionalism, with the Northern People's Congress (NPC) dominating the federal government and the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) and the Action Group (AG) controlling the Eastern and Western regions, respectively.

The collapse of the First Republic marked the beginning of a tumultuous period in Nigerian history, with the country teetering on the brink of chaos. Major-General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi took over power, banning all political parties and forming the Supreme Military Council (SMC). However, his rule was short-lived, as he was overthrown in a counter-coup just 194 days later.

- The Military Era (1966-1999)

Nigeria's Military Era, spanning from 1966 to 1999, was marked by a series of coups, counter-coups, and military regimes. This period was characterized by widespread human rights abuses, corruption, and economic mismanagement.

The era began with General Aguiyi Ironsi's short-lived regime, which was overthrown by General Yakubu Gowon. Gowon's regime attempted to promote national unity and stability but was criticized for human rights abuses and corruption.

Subsequent regimes, led by Generals Murtala Mohammed, Olusegun Obasanjo, Muhammadu Buhari, Ibrahim Babangida, Sani Abacha, and Abdulsalami Abubakar, implemented various policies aimed at promoting economic development, social justice, and democracy. However, many of these regimes were also marred by human rights abuses, corruption, and economic mismanagement.

Throughout this period, Nigeria struggled with political instability, ethnic tensions, and economic challenges. The Military Era ultimately came to an end in 1999, when General Abdulsalami Abubakar oversaw a transition to civilian rule.

- The Fourth Republic (1999-Present)

The Fourth Republic began in 1999, when Nigeria returned to democratic rule after decades of military dictatorship, marking a significant turning point in the country's history as it transitioned from authoritarian rule to a democratic system of government.

- The Obasanjo Administration (1999-2007)

The Fourth Republic was ushered in with the inauguration of President Olusegun Obasanjo, a former military head of state, as the democratically elected president of Nigeria. Obasanjo's administration was marked by significant reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy, promoting democracy, and reducing corruption. However, the administration was also criticized for its handling of several high-profile corruption cases, its attempts to amend the constitution to allow for a third term in office, and its response to several communal conflicts and insurgencies across the country.

- The Yar'Adua Administration (2007-2010)

In 2007, President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua took office, succeeding Obasanjo. Yar'Adua's administration was marked by a focus on addressing the country's infrastructure challenges, promoting economic development, and improving the country's international image. However, Yar'Adua's health issues and subsequent death in 2010 led to a period of uncertainty and instability, as Vice President Goodluck Jonathan took over as acting president.

- The Jonathan Administration (2010-2015)

President Goodluck Jonathan's administration was marked by significant challenges, including the rise of the Boko Haram insurgency, widespread corruption, and economic mismanagement. Despite these challenges, Jonathan's administration also implemented several significant reforms, including the privatization of the power sector, the introduction of a new pension scheme, and the establishment of the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority.

- The Buhari Administration (2015-2023)

In 2015, President Muhammadu Buhari took office, marking the first time in Nigerian history that an opposition candidate had defeated an incumbent president. The Buhari administration, which spanned from 2015 to 2023, was marked by significant policies and programs aimed at addressing Nigeria's economic challenges and improving governance.

Economic Reforms

Buhari's administration implemented various economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, which had been a significant drain on the nation's finances. The government also invested in infrastructure development, including the rehabilitation of refineries and the construction of new roads and railways.

 

Anti-Corruption Efforts

The Buhari administration launched a high-profile anti-corruption campaign, which led to the prosecution of several high-ranking officials and politicians. The government also established the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption (PACAC) to advise on anti-corruption policies.

Security Challenges

During Buhari's tenure, Nigeria faced significant security challenges, including the Boko Haram insurgency and communal clashes in the Middle Belt region. The administration responded by launching military operations against Boko Haram and establishing the Presidential Committee on Northeast Initiative (PCNI) to coordinate humanitarian efforts.

Criticisms and Controversies

Despite these efforts, the Buhari administration faced criticisms for its handling of the economy, security, and human rights. The government was accused of being slow to respond to economic challenges, and its anti-corruption efforts were criticized for being selective and targeting mostly opposition politicians. Overall, the Buhari administration's record is complex and multifaceted, reflecting both significant achievements and criticisms.

 

- Unpacking the Tinubu Administration: Promise, Progress, and Peril

As Nigeria navigates the complexities of its democratic journey, the Tinubu administration has taken the reins, promising a new era of growth, stability, and accountability. But has the government delivered on its lofty promises?

A New Era of Economic Development?

The Tinubu administration has made bold strides in addressing Nigeria's economic challenges. The removal of fuel subsidies, a long-standing drain on the nation's finances, has freed up billions of naira for critical infrastructure projects. The unification of exchange rates has also brought a measure of stability to the currency market.

Infrastructure Development: A Key Priority. 

The government has prioritized infrastructure development, recognizing that a modern, efficient transportation network is essential for economic growth. The rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery, a critical piece of infrastructure, is nearing completion, promising to boost the nation's oil refining capacity.

Anti-Corruption Efforts: A Mixed Bag

While the administration has pledged to combat corruption, critics argue that the government has been slow to address corruption cases involving its own officials. The appointment of former governors and politicians with questionable track records has raised eyebrows, fueling concerns about nepotism and cronyism.

Human Rights Abuses: A Growing Concern

The government's human rights record has been a subject of controversy, with reports of security forces suppressing dissenting voices and mistreating marginalized communities. The administration's response to these allegations has been criticized as inadequate, sparking fears about the erosion of democratic freedoms.

- Economic Hardship: The Human Cost-

The removal of fuel subsidies and other economic policies have had a devastating

impact on ordinary Nigerians, who are struggling to make ends meet. The rising cost of living, exacerbated by inflation and unemployment has sparked widespread discontent, with many wondering if the government’s economic policies are f truly designed to benefit the people. 

As the Tinubu administration navigates the treacherous waters of Nigerian politics, it remains to be seen whether the government will deliver on its promises of growth, stability and accountability. One thing is certain, however: the Nigerian people will be watching closely, demanding that their leaders prioritize their needs and aspirations above all else. 

 

 3. The Cultural Politics of "Food is Ready" Politicians

The phenomenon of "Food is Ready" politicians in Nigeria is deeply rooted in the country's cultural politics. This section examines how cultural factors, such as ethnicity, regionalism, and patronage networks, influence the behavior and actions of these politicians.

- The Role of Ethnicity and Regionalism

In Nigeria, ethnicity and regionalism play significant roles in shaping political alliances and rivalries. "Food is Ready" politicians often exploit these divisions to consolidate power and maintain control. By appealing to ethnic or regional sentiments, they create patronage networks that reinforce their authority.

A cursory look at the "Amala Politics" of Southwest Nigeria: In Southwest Nigeria, particularly in Ogun and Oyo states, politicians have been known to use "Amala politics" to win votes. Amala is a popular local dish made from yam flour. Politicians would often serve Amala at campaign rallies, symbolizing their connection to the local culture and people. This tactic has been employed by politicians like former Governor Gbenga Daniel of Ogun State, who used Amala politics to secure votes from the local population.

- The Intersection of Culture and Corruption

Corruption in Nigeria is often embedded in cultural practices and norms. For instance, the concept of "chop money" (money for immediate gratification) is deeply ingrained in Nigerian culture. "Food is Ready" politicians capitalize on this cultural mindset, using corruption as a means to accumulate wealth and maintain power.

For instance: The "Ghana Must Go" Bags of Cash: During the 2015 general elections in Nigeria, it was alleged that some politicians used "Ghana Must Go" bags to distribute cash to voters. "Ghana Must Go" is a popular brand of bag in Nigeria, often used for carrying goods. In this context, the bags were allegedly filled with cash, symbolizing the corrupt practice of buying votes. This incident highlights how cultural practices, such as the use of "Ghana Must Go" bags, can be exploited for corrupt purposes.

- The Performance of Power: Rituals and Symbolism

"Food is Ready" politicians in Nigeria often engage in elaborate displays of wealth and power. These performances serve as symbols of their status and influence, reinforcing their authority and control. By examining these rituals and symbols, we can gain insight into the cultural politics that underpin the actions of these politicians. For example: The Convoy of Cars and Sirens: 

In Nigeria, politicians often move around with a convoy of cars, sirens blaring, and security personnel in tow. This display of power and wealth serves as a symbol of their status and influence. For instance, former Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State was known for his elaborate convoy, which included luxury cars and security personnel. This performance of power reinforced his authority and control over the state.

4. The Impact of "Food is Ready" Politicians on Nigerian Society

- Economic Consequences: Corruption, Inequality, and Poverty

The "Food is Ready" politician phenomenon has devastating economic implications for Nigeria. Corruption, a defining characteristic of this political culture, perpetuates inequality and poverty.

Corruption and Economic Mismanagement

- Corruption in Nigeria is estimated to cost the country over $400 billion annually.

- The Nigerian government has been accused of mismanaging billions of dollars in oil revenues, exacerbating poverty and inequality.

- A report by the African Development Bank found that corruption in Nigeria's public sector results in an estimated 20% loss of GDP annually.

Inequality and Poverty

- Nigeria has one of the highest income inequality rates in the world, with the richest 10% of the population holding 40% of the country's wealth.

- According to the World Bank, over 80 million Nigerians live on less than $1.90 a day, making Nigeria home to the largest number of extreme poor in the world.

- The poverty rate in Nigeria has increased significantly since 2015, with the number of people living in poverty rising from 61 million to over 90 million.

Social Consequences: Insecurity, Ethnic Tensions, and Cultural Erosion

The social consequences of "Food is Ready" politicians are far-reaching and have significantly impacted Nigerian society.

Insecurity:

- Nigeria has been plagued by insecurity, with the country experiencing a significant increase in violent crime, kidnapping, and terrorism.

- The Boko Haram insurgency, which began in 2009, has resulted in the deaths of over 30,000 people and the displacement of millions.

- The Nigerian government has been accused of responding inadequately to security challenges, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Ethnic Tensions

- Nigeria is a multi-ethnic country with over 250 ethnic groups, and ethnic tensions have long been a source of conflict.

- Politicians often exploit ethnic divisions for personal gain, fueling tensions and violence.

- The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) have been at the forefront of separatist movements in Nigeria, highlighting the country's ongoing ethnic tensions.

Cultural Erosion:

- Nigerian culture is rich and diverse, with a strong emphasis on community and social cohesion.

- However, the influence of "Food is Ready" politicians has contributed to the erosion of cultural values, as individuals prioritize personal gain over collective well-being.

- The decline of traditional institutions and the rise of corruption have also contributed to cultural erosion, as Nigerians increasingly lose faith in their leaders and institutions.

Political Consequences: Democratic Deconsolidation and Institutional Decay

The political implications of "Food is Ready" politicians are equally alarming, with significant consequences for Nigeria's democratic system.

Democratic Deconsolidation:

- Nigeria's democratic system has been characterized by democratic deconsolidation, with the country's democratic institutions and norms being increasingly undermined.

- The influence of "Food is Ready" politicians has contributed to this trend, as individuals prioritize personal gain over democratic principles.

- The Nigerian government has been accused of suppressing opposition and dissent, further undermining democratic consolidation.

Institutional Decay

- Nigeria's institutions, including the judiciary, legislature, and executive, have been weakened by corruption and mismanagement.

- The influence of "Food is Ready" politicians has contributed to institutional decay, as individuals prioritize personal gain over institutional integrity.

- The decline of institutions has significant implications for Nigeria's democratic system, as the country's ability to hold leaders accountable and ensure the rule of law is increasingly compromised.

 

5. Rethinking Governance and Democracy in Nigeria

Nigeria's struggle with "Food is Ready" politicians is a symptom of deeper systemic issues. To address these challenges, Nigeria must rethink its governance and democratic systems.

The Role of Civil Society and the Media

Civil society and the media play crucial roles in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.

- Promoting Transparency and Accountability: Civil society organizations and the media can hold leaders accountable by exposing corruption, human rights abuses, and other forms of malfeasance. They can also advocate for policy changes that promote transparency and accountability.

- Advocating for Reform: Civil society and the media can advocate for reforms that promote good governance, transparency, and accountability. This includes campaigning for electoral reforms, pushing for constitutional reforms, and supporting anti-corruption initiatives.

The Imperative of Institutional Reforms

Institutional reforms are essential to addressing the root causes of the "Food is Ready" politician phenomenon.

- Strengthening Anti-Corruption Institutions: Nigeria's anti-corruption institutions, such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), need to be strengthened to effectively combat corruption. However, the EFCC has been criticized for its selective prosecution of corruption cases, often targeting "yahoo boys" (individuals involved in cybercrime) while ignoring corrupt public office holders. This has led to accusations of politicization and undermining the agency's credibility.

- Promoting Electoral Reform: Electoral reforms are necessary to ensure that Nigeria's electoral process is transparent, free, and fair. This includes introducing electronic voting systems, strengthening the independence and autonomy of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and promoting voter education and civic engagement.

 

The Need for a New Political Culture

A new political culture is essential to addressing the challenges posed by "Food is Ready" politicians.

- Promoting a Culture of Transparency and Accountability: Nigerian politicians need to prioritize transparency and accountability, recognizing that public office is a trust that must be exercised for the benefit of all Nigerians. This includes promoting a culture of transparency and accountability within political parties and government institutions, encouraging politicians to declare their assets and incomes publicly, and strengthening laws and regulations that prevent corruption and promote transparency.

- Encouraging Active Citizenship: Nigerian citizens need to be encouraged to participate actively in the country's democratic process, demanding accountability from their leaders and promoting a culture of transparency and good governance. This includes promoting voter education and civic engagement, encouraging citizens to demand accountability from their leaders and institutions, and supporting civil society organizations and the media in their efforts to promote transparency and accountability.

Ultimately, addressing the challenges posed by "Food is Ready" politicians requires a fundamental transformation of Nigeria's governance and democratic systems. This can only be achieved through the collective efforts of civil society, the media, and Nigerian citizens, who must demand accountability, transparency, and good governance from their leaders.

 

 

6. Conclusion and Recommendations: Charting a New Course for Nigeria

This piece however conclude its exploration of the "Food is Ready" politician phenomenon, it is clear that this entrenched culture of corruption, patronage, and poor governance poses a significant threat to Nigeria's democratic development and economic prosperity.

 

Recapitulating the Argument: A Call to Action

Through a nuanced analysis of the historical, cultural, and socio-political contexts that have enabled the "Food is Ready" politician phenomenon, this piece have underscored the urgent need for reform. It is imperative that Nigeria's leaders, citizens, and international partners recognize the gravity of this challenge and collaborate to address its root causes.

 

Policy Recommendations for Reform: A Framework for Change

To combat the "Food is Ready" politician phenomenon, this book propose a multi-faceted reform agenda that encompasses:

Institutional Strengthening

- Enhancing the capacity and independence of anti-corruption agencies, such as the EFCC, to effectively investigate and prosecute corruption cases.

Electoral Reform

- Implementing reforms to ensure transparent, free, and fair elections, including the adoption of electronic voting systems and robust voter education programs.

Transparency and Accountability

- Promoting a culture of transparency and accountability among politicians and public officials, through measures such as asset declaration and robust financial disclosure requirements.

Active Citizenship

- Empowering citizens to participate in the democratic process, demand accountability from their leaders, and promote a culture of transparency and good governance.

 

Future Research Directions: Deepening Our Understanding

Further research is necessary to deepen our understanding of the complex dynamics underlying the "Food is Ready" politician phenomenon. Potential areas of inquiry include:

The Intersection of Traditional Institutions and Politics

- Examining the role of traditional institutions, such as monarchies and community leaders, in shaping the behavior of "Food is Ready" politicians.

 

The Impact of Social Media on Political Communication

- Investigating how social media influences the communication strategies and behavior of "Food is Ready" politicians.

 

The Relationship Between Corruption and Economic Development

- Analyzing the economic implications of corruption in Nigeria and identifying evidence-based strategies to mitigate its effects.

 

 Final Thoughts: A Call to Action

The "Food is Ready" politician phenomenon is a ticking time bomb that threatens to undermine Nigeria's democratic development and economic prosperity. It is imperative that Nigeria's leaders, citizens, and international partners recognize the gravity of this challenge and collaborate to address its root causes. We must work together to create a new political culture that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and the welfare of all citizens. The future of Nigeria depends on it.