In the dynamic landscape of Nigerian politics, Imo State has emerged as a microcosm reflecting a broader national trend of political degradation. The new breed of Imo politician is often characterized by immorality, sycophancy, and a profound ideological bankruptcy. This profile offers a critical examination of these traits and their implications for the state’s political and social fabric.
Immorality and Ethical Decay
The political arena in Imo State has become a breeding ground for immorality. Politicians in this new breed frequently exhibit a blatant disregard for ethical standards and public accountability. This immorality is not limited to personal conduct but extends to governance practices, where corruption and self-serving actions prevail. The erosion of moral values has become so pervasive that the line between right and wrong is blurred, creating an environment where deceit and dishonesty thrive.
Sycophancy and “Chartered Politics”
Sycophancy, or the excessive flattery of those in power to gain favor, is a hallmark of the new breed Imo politician. These individuals often engage in “chartered politics,” where loyalty is bought and sold, and political allegiance is dictated by personal gain rather than ideological commitment. This practice undermines the democratic process, as political decisions are driven by patronage and cronyism rather than the will of the people.
Ideological Bankruptcy
The lack of a coherent political ideology among these politicians is glaring. Ideological bankruptcy manifests in their inability to articulate clear policy positions or a vision for the future of Imo State. Instead, their political agendas are often shaped by short-term gains and opportunism. This lack of vision hinders meaningful development and progress, as policies are not designed to address the long-term needs of the populace. You have top government representatives hopping from one political party to another in search of self serving pastures and continuing stomach infrastructure. The morality and integrity level of most of our representatives is in the pits. Shameful indeed.
Backstabbing and Blackmail
The political culture in Imo State is rife with backstabbing and blackmail. Politicians frequently engage in Machiavellian tactics to undermine their rivals, leading to a toxic environment of distrust and treachery. These actions not only destabilize the political landscape but also distract from governance, as leaders are more focused on maintaining power through deceitful means than on serving their constituents.
The Role of Unemployment and Political Thuggery
The high rate of unemployment in Imo State has created a pool of disenfranchised youths who are easily co-opted into the political machinery as thugs and minions. Politics has become the primary source of income for many of these individuals, who are often used for rigging elections and intimidating opponents. This exploitation perpetuates a cycle of violence and criminality, further eroding the democratic process and entrenching a culture of impunity.
Government Patronage and Stomach Infrastructure
Government patronage is a lifeline for the new breed Imo politician, particularly those with no other means of livelihood. The term “stomach infrastructure” aptly describes the practice of using state resources to secure political loyalty through material handouts rather than substantive development programs. This approach reduces governance to a transactional relationship, where politicians prioritize their own survival over the welfare of the populace.
Moral and Integrity Bankruptcy
This moral and integrity bankruptcy has made it impossible for any agreements to be kept and has also made it impossible for elders and politicians to work out modalities to manage their diversity. Simple zoning that works like clockwork in other climes poses an insurmountable challenge in Imo due to the corrupt nature of most politicians, who can be bought or sponsored to disrupt agreements. This lack of trust and integrity hinders collaborative efforts and perpetuates a fractured and dysfunctional political system.
The Impact on Youth and Future Leadership
The corruption of the youth by these politicians is perhaps the most alarming aspect of this new breed. By co-opting young people into their corrupt practices, these politicians are effectively grooming the next generation of leaders in their own image. This perpetuation of unethical behavior ensures that visionary and principled leadership remains elusive, as the political system continues to reward sycophancy and criminality over competence and integrity.
Conclusion
The profile of the new breed Imo politician paints a grim picture of the current state of politics in Imo State. The prevalence of immorality, sycophancy, ideological bankruptcy, backstabbing, and blackmail underscores a deeply flawed political system. Until there is a concerted effort to address these issues and promote ethical governance, the political landscape in Imo State will remain mired in corruption and inefficiency, to the detriment of its citizens and future generations.
Duruebube Ndukaku III of Ihiagwa
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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