In 2012, Nigeria was a nation in upheaval as thousands of citizens took to the streets to protest against the government of then-President Goodluck Jonathan. Sparked by the removal of fuel subsidies, which led to a dramatic rise in fuel prices, the “Occupy Nigeria” movement saw a diverse coalition of Nigerians—pastors, members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), civil rights organizations (CROs), professors, and ordinary citizens—demanding better governance and economic policies.
The Hypocrisy of Silence
Today, many of those who were at the forefront of the 2012 protests seem conspicuously silent despite the myriad of challenges facing the country. Critics have labeled these once vocal advocates as hypocrites, questioning why they have not spoken out against the current administration with the same fervor. Is Nigeria better today, or have these individuals simply chosen to look the other way?
Comparing Governance: 2012 vs. Today
A comparative analysis of governance and economic conditions from 2012 to today reveals significant continuities and new challenges that demand scrutiny.
Economic Conditions
The economic landscape of Nigeria remains troubled. In 2012, the protests were largely driven by economic dissatisfaction, including high fuel prices and general cost of living increases. Today, Nigeria continues to grapple with high inflation, unemployment, and a weakened currency. Many Nigerians face daily hardships that are as severe, if not worse, than those experienced in 2012. Despite government efforts to stabilize the economy, the benefits have not been widely felt by the populace.
Security Issues
Insecurity has escalated since 2012. The Boko Haram insurgency persists in the Northeast, while banditry, kidnappings, and separatist movements have spread across other regions. The increase in violence and instability has left many questioning the efficacy of the current government’s security policies.
Silence of the Influential Voices
The apparent silence of those who once protested vigorously raises important questions about accountability and the role of influential voices in Nigerian society.
Pastors
In 2012, several prominent pastors led their congregations in prayers and protests against the government. Their moral authority and large followings lent significant weight to the movement. Today, these same pastors appear to have retreated from political activism, focusing more on spiritual leadership and less on governance issues.
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
Members of the NBA were critical voices in 2012, using their legal expertise to challenge government policies and advocate for the rule of law. The NBA’s current stance is less vocal, with fewer public condemnations and protests against governmental missteps.
Civil Rights Organizations (CROs)
CROs played a crucial role in mobilizing the public and advocating for systemic change in 2012. However, many of these organizations now seem less active in holding the government accountable, leading to questions about their current priorities and effectiveness.
Professors
Academics and professors provided intellectual and moral support to the 2012 protests, offering critical analyses and rallying students. Today, their silence is deafening, suggesting either a shift in priorities or a response to different political dynamics.
Is Nigeria Better Today?
The pressing question remains: Is Nigeria better today than it was in 2012? The evidence suggests mixed results. While some areas may have seen improvements, many of the core issues—economic hardship, insecurity, and corruption—persist or have worsened. The absence of the previously vocal critics only exacerbates these challenges, as fewer influential voices are holding the government accountable.
The silence of those who protested against bad governance in 2012 but remain quiet today is seen by many as a form of hypocrisy. The critical issues of economic instability, insecurity, and poor governance continue to plague Nigeria, raising doubts about the nation’s progress. The absence of vocal pastors, NBA members, CROs, and professors from today’s discourse undermines the credibility of their past activism and highlights the need for consistent and principled advocacy for good governance. As Nigeria faces its current challenges, the role of these influential voices is more crucial than ever in ensuring accountability and driving positive change.
