By Ishola Halimah Bisola
A public affairs analyst, Comrade Saheed Abdullahi, has called for stronger political structures, greater accountability and effective governance to address some of the challenges confronting Nigeria’s democracy and development.
He made the call during the SBS FM Newspaper Review and Analysis programme, monitored by Ishola Halimah Bisola.
Speaking on the state of Nigeria’s political opposition, Comrade Abdullahi argued that the major challenge was not the absence of political parties but the weakness of their structures and the frequent movement of politicians between parties, particularly when they lose political power.
He stressed the need for political groups and stakeholders to submit memoranda, ideas and policy proposals that could contribute to building credible political alternatives and allow Nigerians to play a greater role in shaping the country’s political future.
On the proposed establishment of state police, the analyst expressed concern about the possibility of state governors exercising excessive control over Commissioners of Police.
He noted that similar concerns had previously been raised over allegations of political influence in the appointment and transfer of Commissioners of Police in states controlled by opposition parties.
Commenting on corruption, Comrade Abdullahi agreed with the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, that corruption remains a major obstacle to Nigeria’s development.
However, he criticised what he described as excessive reliance on statements and press conferences without corresponding concrete action, stressing that public institutions must demonstrate their commitment through effective enforcement and accountability.
Comrade Abdullahi maintained that Nigeria does not only need ideas and policies but also the political will, accountability and effective implementation required to translate them into meaningful results for citizens.
