QUO VADIS NIGERIA? A PHILOSOPHICAL INTERROGATION OF A NATION IN GRIP OF POLITICAL INCOMPETENCE

Abstract

Why are the Nigerian youths, in great numbers, migrating to Western nations and many other African countries today? Again, why does the rate of insecurity in Nigeria continue to increase daily? In many parts of the country, citizens cannot sleep with both eyes closed due to the menace of bandits, unknown gunmen, and deadly Fulani herdsmen terrorists. These groups kill innocent Nigerians in Benue, Jos, Kogi, Enugu, and Ebonyi, while widespread kidnappings occur in many other areas, with perpetrators demanding ransom payments. Boko Haram terrorists are also unleashing deadly attacks on citizens, pushing the Nigerian state closer to stagnation and near collapse – what some described as the threshold of a failed state. Inflation is alarmingly high, reflected in the soaring prices of goods and services, the high cost of food items, chronic electricity shortages, and skyrocketing fuel and diesel prices. The exchange rate of the Naira to the Dollar is equally disturbing. Nigeria is often referred to as the “Giant of Africa” due to its land mass, abundant human capital, and rich natural and human resources. However, these advantages have not translated into improved living conditions for the average Nigerians. This paradox is largely attributable to poor leadership, systemic corruption, and political incompetence among Nigeria’s ruling elites. Yet, amidst the current calamity and widespread hardship, the All Progressive Congress (APC) - led government appears unbothered. Rather than focusing on alleviating the sufferings of people, their preoccupation seems to be securing victory in the year 2027 general elections. This is deeply troubling as it raises the question, how many citizens will still be alive by then, if the present situation remains unchanged? Using Philosophical analysis as our methodology, this paper undertakes a critical interrogation of the Nigerian state, guided by the Latin question: “Quo Vadis?” (Where are you going?). In our analysis, we examine the fundamental causes of the Nigeria’s decline and propose viable solutions and the way forward. With these recommendations - centered on ethical leadership and productive governance- we hope that, like St. Peter who, upon asking Jesus this question, turned back and embrace the crucibles of the discipleship, Nigeria too will turn back from the brink and move towards genuine democratic leadership, good governance, and economic prosperity for its citizens.