A better Nigeria

The idea of a democracy is to give power to the people. It's aim is to give the people a voice and a stand to choose for themselves who they think will be the best suited leader. Is it really democracy if the voice of the people isn't heard?

Nigeria hasn't had it good these past few years. Almost seems like whether you voted or not, the decision had already been made for you. A lot of people have lost their lives or have been left injured in recent times and yet, it seems like no one is listening.

The dead and injured are as a result of protests against police brutality that went on in the country for nearly two weeks. Nigerian youths are just demanding for a better life and to move about freely without being constantly subjected to extortion and harassment by the police. Having a nice car and nice clothes, living the comfortable live now appears to be a crime.

An average Nigerian youth isn't considered safe if you don't have connections. This is translated to mean having affiliations with people of higher social or political status that can assist you climb up the ladder of life or escape the harassment that comes from the police.

The children of the rich or our leaders do not face this same treatment as average Nigerian youths do. It's sad that our country isn't even safe for us anymore. We just want a better Nigeria.

A Nigerian activist, Aisha Yesufu said this about Nigeria and I quote "A country where the child of a nobody can become a somebody without knowing anybody". That is what we are demanding for. A country where you can climb up the ladder to success without connections and purely because you merit whatever comes to you.

This brings me to accountability and transparency.

What is accountability?

Accountability means being held responsible or answerable for ones actions(or perhaps lack of action where one should have been taken).

The idea of electing a democratic government into office is to speak for the people. In essence, the government are answerable to the people and should have the best interest of the people at heart.

How about transparency?

Transparency in the context of governance, means being open and honest in all official activities. The implication is that all activities are scrupulous enough that they could bear public scrutiny.

Accountability and transparency are mainly considered the two main pillars of good corporate governance. The idea is for the people to be knowledgeable about the actions and decisions of our leaders. Being aware of the how's, the whys and the whats.

It is important that our leaders realize this and work towards making the country better and great. It's pertinent that they listen to the cries and demands of the people. The citizens are tired of the fake promises and campaigns and demand that their voices will be heard.

The safeguard of lives and properties should be a priority. The people need to feel the government working for them and not against them.

Say a prayer for Nigeria, despite the tough times, we believe that better days are ahead. Hoping the change comes sooner than expected. Our voices must be heard.