Comrade Yerima Shettima is the president of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF). The activist speaks with KUNLE ODEREMI on the culture of indiscriminate actions by politicians to dump their parties for the ruling parties, quality of opposition in the country and the hoopla trailing the closure of public schools by governors due to the month of Ramadan.
NIGERIANS are divided over the shutting of schools by some states in the North due to the Ramadan period. Is the reason for the action adduced by those states convincing and why?
The recent decision by several northern Nigerian states to close schools during the Ramadan period reflects the complex interplay between cultural, religious, and political factors in a nation characterized by significant ethno-religious diversity. Some view the closure as a necessary accommodation to the month of fasting; others perceive it as an infringement on educational rights and a reflection of deeper societal divisions. For us, the Ramadan period is a time for spiritual reflection and devotion, which can be particularly challenging for students engaged in academic activities. Fasting affects students’ concentration and energy levels, making it difficult for them to perform academically.
How would you rationalise the wave of criticisms trailing the closure of the schools by state governments?
The criticism surrounding the school closures can be rationalised by acknowledging the broader societal context in which these decisions are made. Many Nigerians view the closures as a manifestation of the state’s failure to prioritize education, particularly in a region that has historically lagged behind in educational attainment. This criticism is further fuelled by perceptions that religious considerations are being prioritised over the secular obligation to provide education for all children, raising concerns about the mixing of religion with governance.
Don’t you see the closure of those schools as another case of the authorities trying to mix religion with politics?
The question of whether the school closures represent a case of mixing religion with politics is complex. In Nigeria, where the population is divided along religious lines, political leaders often leverage religious sentiments to garner support.
Is there a correlation between politics and religion, especially given the ethno-religious heterogeneity of Nigeria?
The ethno-religious heterogeneity of Nigeria creates a unique landscape where politics and religion are deeply intertwined. Political leaders often appeal to religious sentiments to mobilize support, which can lead to policies that favour one group over another. The challenge for Nigeria is to navigate these complexities while fostering an inclusive political environment that respects the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.
Opposition politicians are planning to gang up against the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress by way of forming a coalition preparatory to 2027. To what extent do you think their effort is desirable or otherwise now?
In light of the upcoming 2027 elections, opposition politicians are strategising to form a coalition against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). While this effort is commendable in terms of seeking to provide a viable alternative to the current administration, the effectiveness of such a coalition hinges on the ability of diverse opposition parties to unite around common goals. The desire for an electoral upset must be tempered with realistic assessments of the challenges posed by party fragmentation and the need for cohesive strategies.
Are they demonstrating the kind of unity of purpose, oneness and compromise you expect towards achieving the electoral upset?
The extent to which opposition parties demonstrate unity of purpose is questionable. Historical rivalries and ideological differences often hinder collaboration among these groups. For a coalition to succeed, opposition parties must prioritise compromise and shared objectives over individual ambitions. This unity is crucial for presenting a formidable challenge to the APC and for ensuring that the voices of various constituencies are represented.
What are your candid thoughts on the quality of the opposition parties nay politicians in the country and why?
The quality of opposition politicians in Nigeria is a subject of concern. Many opposition leaders have faced criticism for their lack of coherence in policies and for their frequent defections to the ruling party. This behaviour raises questions about their commitment to democratic principles and the welfare of their constituents. A robust opposition is essential for a healthy democracy, as it provides checks and balances to the ruling party’s power.
Many opposition members have defected to the APC in particular after the 2023 elections. Others have indeed been jumping from one party to the other. Is this a healthy development for our democracy?
The trend of politicians defecting to the APC or switching parties raises concerns about the health of Nigeria’s democracy. Such movements often reflect personal ambitions rather than ideological commitments, undermining the integrity of political parties. A vibrant democracy thrives on stable political affiliations that allow for accountability and representation of diverse interests. Frequent defections can lead to disillusionment among voters and diminish trust in the political system.
How do you see the shades of political crises rocking or plaguing states like Rivers, Osun and Lagos? The political crises in states like Rivers, Osun, and Lagos highlight the fragility of governance in Nigeria. These crises often stem from power struggles, allegations of electoral malpractice, and intra-party conflicts. Such instability can hinder effective governance and exacerbate public discontent, leading to protests and unrest.
The crises in these states suggest a broader pattern of political instability that can have detrimental effects on governance and development. They underscore the need for electoral reforms and stronger institutions that can mitigate conflicts and foster transparency. The persistence of such crises raises questions about the effectiveness of the current political system in addressing the needs of the populace.
Do these conflicts suggest anything to you about the emerging political space? Do you think the different scenarios playing out in those states were avoidable in the first place and why?
The different scenarios playing out in these states are, to some extent, avoidable. Effective governance, transparent electoral processes, and strong party structures could mitigate many of the conflicts currently observed. Additionally, fostering a culture of political accountability and civic engagement can empower citizens to demand better governance and hold their leaders accountable.
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