By Eniola Elewude
A public affairs analyst, Mr George Humphrey, says the increasing role of money in Nigeria’s politics is discouraging competent citizens from seeking elective office and eroding public confidence in democratic institutions.
Humphrey made the observation in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja.
He said that the country’s political environment was characterised by the influence of financial resources, often at the expense of competence, experience and integrity.
According to him, many political parties have gradually moved away from merit-based leadership selection, creating a situation where individuals with substantial financial resources enjoy greater political opportunities than those with proven records of service.
“Nigerian politics is increasingly becoming a contest of financial power rather than a competition of ideas, competence and vision.
“In many cases, qualifications, credentials, experience and capacity to lead are pushed aside, while money becomes the determining factor,” he said.
Humphrey said the trend had contributed to growing public distrust in political institutions and electoral processes, especially among young people who viewed the political space as inaccessible to ordinary citizens.
He noted that the prevalence of money politics had continued to undermine efforts aimed at strengthening democratic governance, adding that many capable Nigerians were discouraged from seeking elective offices because of financial constraints.
“The unfortunate reality is that many citizens now view politics as an investment rather than a platform for service.
“This perception has fuelled unhealthy competition, desperation and excessive spending during elections and party activities,” he said.
The analyst also expressed concern that the conduct of some political actors had projected a negative image of the country internationally.
“It is painful that when the world looks at Nigeria, it often sees a political system characterised by desperation, excessive influence of money and personal interests rather than genuine commitment to national development.
“This should concern every patriotic Nigerian,” he said.
Humphrey stressed that sustainable development could only be achieved when leadership positions were occupied by individuals with the requisite competence, character and commitment to public service.
He called on political parties, electoral stakeholders, civil society organisations and citizens to support reforms that would promote transparency, accountability and merit-based leadership.
“Nigeria cannot achieve its full potential if competence continues to be sacrificed for financial influence.
“Our democracy must reward integrity, capacity and service. Until merit becomes the foundation of political leadership, the nation’s development aspirations will remain difficult to attain,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to demand higher standards from political leaders and support reforms aimed at reducing the influence of money in politics. (NAN)
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