PHILOSOPHY AND PRAXIS

It is an indubitable fact that Nigeria operates a constitutional democracy, although the pattern Iof its political engagement fails to satisfy the democratic ideals of modern civilisation. Over the years, Nigeria has drifted far from the principles of true democracy. This situation is attributed to several factors, including the legacy of prolonged military rule, widespread corruption, lack of political will, poor policymaking, and the low quality of the ruling class. Perhaps the most critical issue is the challenge of leadership recruitment, which has stunted the nation's developmental trajectory. Nigeria's post-independence political narrative has positioned it in a retrogressive state where mediocrity, charlatanism, manipulative opportunism, and a blatant disregard for political, educational, and economic excellence have become the norm. This work aims to establish that the culture of exclusive politicking by a privileged clique of recycled mediocrities and ethnic loyalists has stifled national development. This stagnation is driven by entrenched political stereotypes and non-functional ideas. Consequently, meaningful development cannot be achieved with such political mindsets. Nigeria cannot make meaningful progress until there is the political will to dismantle these detrimental practices. The paper further suggests that a new political culture must be fostered – a positive political culture that promotes inclusivity, progressiveness, innovation, and the participation of technocrats, regardless of creed or ethnic affiliation – where citizens trust institutions, engage constructively, and uphold democratic norms, thereby contributing meaningfully to national development.

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