According to Nigerian Tribune, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, a former chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), recently reflected on his significant role in the June 12 agitation that ultimately ended the military regime on May 29, 1999. Speaking on various issues, Agbakoba discussed the involvement of pro-democracy activists in politics, the current state of governance in Nigeria, and the influence of governors over traditional institutions. His insights come as the nation continues to grapple with its democratic processes and the legacies of past political struggles.
In a national broadcast commemorating June 12, President Bola Tinubu acknowledged Agbakoba as one of the heroes of the June 12, 1993 struggle. Agbakoba was notably linked with the United Action for Democracy (UAD) and the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). When questioned about whether the goals of NADECO have been achieved, Agbakoba offered a critical assessment of the political landscape that emerged following the end of military rule. He indicated that the quality of politicians that came into prominence around 1999 and 2000 was disappointingly low, lacking both ideas and ideology.
Agbakoba emphasized that the poor quality of these early politicians has had lasting negative impacts on Nigeria’s political process. He described the political environment as immature and devoid of principles, pointing out a significant absence of integrity among political figures. According to Agbakoba, these deficiencies have contributed to ongoing challenges within the political system, highlighting the need for a more principled and integrity-driven political culture.
Furthermore, Agbakoba touched on the influence of governors over traditional institutions, suggesting that this dynamic continues to affect governance in Nigeria. His reflections offer a critical perspective on the evolution of Nigeria’s democracy and the enduring challenges that hinder its maturation. As Nigeria continues to navigate its democratic journey, voices like Agbakoba's underscore the importance of addressing foundational issues within the political system.
He said: The honest truth is that the quality of politicians that then went through the filter in 1999, 2000 was extremely poor, bereft of any ideas or ideology and I think that became the root cause of the continuing challenges we see in the political process. Like it or not, the political process is absolutely immature, void of principles and there is absolutely no integrity.