Join a political party
Dr. ChiChi Aniagolu-Okoye
So we know that there is no independent candidature in Nigeria and while some people think the best way to go is to start campaigning for independent candidateship to be allowed, I do not believe that even if we have a provision for it, it will make a difference.
Political parties will still remain the most viable means of competing in elections because you need a structure to win, which is why my next recommendation for everyone who wants to rescue us from our political leaders is to join a political party and get as many other people to do likewise.
You see we are not going to have our preferred candidate get anywhere, if s/he has no followership in the party. We know that one of the major issues facing our democracy is internal democracy within political parties. To force internal democracy, a new crop of professional Nigerians, not hungry for money or positions, must join political parties and become active members.
Attend meetings, and where meetings are not held insist on it. Keep coming up with suggestions on how things can improve. After some time you will be surprised by the followership you will garner. Believe me even some political thieves are tired and want things to work because sometimes the corrupt system also out manoeuvres them. In Nigeria, whoever shouts the loudest often ends up carrying the day. Join political parties, mobilise within the party and shout until you make traction, progress and change!
- Dr. ChiChi Aniagolu-Okoye, Country Director, TechnoServe Nigeria. is a Development Sociologist.
