POLITICS OF PRIDE AND PREJUDICE IN THE NIGERIA DEMOCRATIC CULTURE
By Musa Bakare
The reflection on pride and prejudice in this submission touches on the themes that are central to Jane Austen’s Novel “Pride and Prejudice.”
In the novel, Jane portrayed pride as not only a personal flaw but also a societal issue that influences characters, relationships and decisions; pride is the root of self destruction, it obstructs genuine understanding and communication, bane of many Nigerian politicians.
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Pride and prejudice are a sense of superiority above others. It leads the proud to dismiss, demean and reduce others for their perceived lower social and financial standing. This negative attitude underscores the self-destruction character of any person, causing him to misjudge other’s character and value.
Pride, stemming from prejudices and wrong judgments about others blinds many Nigerian politicians to their peril. The mutual misunderstandings are perpetuated by the selfish approaches which creates barriers to genuine judgement of themselves and others and ultimately failures at the polls
Many Nigerian politicians that temper their pride, recognize their flaws, and appreciate those outside their class often go far in the terrain, becoming Governors, Senators and even President.
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a great example in the ocean of seen to be filled with a tremendous dosage of humility. He is none pretending, not vindictive and down to earth approachable to the electorates, major reason he is never failing at the polls.
President Tinubu’s political philosophy is shaped by his background of a leadership style characterized by large-heartedness, non-vindictiveness, humility, and mentorship. He has cultivated a character of being approachable to both the politically high and the ordinary people. His ability to interact with market traders, artisans, business tycoons, and global political leaders alike reflects his humble character and belief in selfless politics.
This down-to-earth leadership style has made him relatable and accessible, contributing to his sustained electoral value, stability and being very unbeatable by whatever shape or color of political gang up.
Confronting ones pride and prejudice allows you see others in a new promising light. This illustrates the importance of humility, self-reflection, and the ability to recognize the worth of others regardless of social status and financial standing, another known beautiful virtue of President Tinubu in making a nobody become somebody of reckon in his family and society
President Tinubu’s political philosophy is deeply rooted in inclusivity, resilience, mentorship and strategic governance. His ability to navigate the complexities of Nigerian politics while remaining influential, people-oriented has solidified his position in the country’s democratic evolution, grossly lacking in any of those other politicians said to be unwieldy ganging up to impossibly unseat him in 2027.
In the contemporary Nigeria political democratic culture, respect for elders and constituted authority has unfortunately terribly waned especially as we are witnessing at the National Assembly, resonating with the social dynamics in the character of many Nigerians whose character ought to navigate issues of class, rank, and respect.
The Pride and arrogance of many Nigerian politicians often leads to conflicts, injuring the country’s political and economic space. Exhibition of humility and respect for others foster deeper connections with colleagues and leaders at the top as well as followers back at home.
While pride may initially serve as a protective mechanism or a marker of self-worth, unchecked pride leads to disconnection, misunderstanding, and, ultimately leads to loss of electoral value, after such abysmal failure, they resort to blaming INEC and the incumbent for their rejection by the very discerning Nigerian voters.
The best re-election campaign strategy is, begin to focus on the next election with your character and achievements the very first day you assume your present position.
Musa Asiru Bakare member Tinubu Support Group TSG writes from Lokoja Kogi state capital
10th March, 2025
