In Nigeria, we lack genuine ideological political parties because most people don’t see the need for them, and there are no incentives for their existence. Political parties in Nigeria function merely as vehicles for campaigns and elections. Political leaders often belong to a party in name only, not necessarily sharing the same policy, ideology, or program direction. Our presidential system resembles a selected monarchy, a winner-take-all system.
In our current presidential system, despite the number of stakeholders (political competitors), only one emerges victorious. Yet, Nigeria is a diverse country with about 300 ethno-linguistic groups and different socio-economic classes. Inclusive representation in a plural, multi-ethnic society like ours is possible only in a parliamentary system.
We continue to elect the same prototype politicians because there is often no real choice. When options exist, the choice is usually between personalities, not policies, due to the lack of true political parties. This explains why the public often does not understand issues and ends up making poor choices, electing unsuitable candidates.
Why do we keep attempting to elect individuals who historically have brought us only poverty and misery? We recycle these politicians because there are limited alternatives. Qualified individuals often refrain from running due to the high cost of campaigning, leaving the field to the usual candidates.
Civil society and academia recognize the need to change the political system. Unfortunately, our elected legislators, who should drive this change, are the ones preventing it. Enormous public pressure is required to implement a new system. If public pressure akin to the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement persists, changing the system may be possible.
We must be poised to dislodge a criminally corrupt, self-serving, and visionless group of leaders who have exploited the country, leaving us financially diseased, deficient, hopeless, and helpless. Many people are now putting immense thought into the direction they want Nigeria to take.
Some Nigerians, driven by selfish interests, consciously advocate for maintaining the leprous status quo. However, many others are totally fed up with the leadership of the APC and PDP (PDAPC) and feel that the country has not improved under their governance. People are hungry, and only fast, visible change can suffice. Nigeria is at a precipice. The worst has happened, and the house that the animals live in, the dog has taken over.
May God save the soul of Nigeria.
Chimazuru “Oblong” Nnadi-Oforgu
Duruebube Uzii na Abosi
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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