Not Tinubu, Blame Your Governors, Others

By Samson Adeyanju 

As Nigerians grapple with soaring inflation, inadequate infrastructure, and an ailing economy, there’s a tendency to direct all frustrations at the office of the President. But before accusing Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu of being the root of our problems, let’s pull back the curtain on the real actors — the governors, local government officials, legislators, and judicial officers who wield significant power and control budgets at the state and local levels. When citizens focus solely on the President, they overlook the roles played by these public officeholders whose daily decisions shape their lives directly and immediately.

Let’s take a hard look at where power truly lies. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria’s 36 states collectively receive around 43% of the country’s total revenue allocation, with local governments receiving 20%. This division underscores a critical truth: governors and local government officials control a substantial portion of public funds and are directly responsible for policies on health, education, and infrastructure within their territories. If public hospitals remain death traps, roads are impassable, or schools lack qualified teachers, local leaders bear significant responsibility.

Governors: More Money, More Power, Less Accountability

Over the past decade, governors across Nigeria have received trillions of naira in federal allocations, yet the state of infrastructure in many regions remains appalling. For instance, in 2023, the Lagos State Government received over ₦400 billion in internally generated revenue and federal allocation, but many parts of the state still suffer from unpaved roads, traffic congestion, and overcrowded schools. In states like Abia and Kogi, where allocations are relatively lower, there are similar issues with funds not translating into meaningful progress for the people.

Despite this, governors continue to enjoy immunity from prosecution while in office, a provision enshrined in the Constitution, shielding them from accountability. Transparency International’s 2023 Corruption Perception Index ranks Nigeria among the lowest globally, a reflection of how deeply corruption has penetrated all levels of government. Yet, rather than focusing on underperforming governors, many Nigerians place blame solely on the President, failing to question why their governors and local officials have not used their funds to better their communities.

Legislators and the Luxury of Apathy

While the President proposes national policies, implementation often depends on the National Assembly. Legislators have the power to pass laws, approve budgets, and oversee the executive branch. Yet many House of Representatives members and Senators remain silent on issues that affect their constituencies directly. For instance, the 10th National Assembly approved a budget of over ₦100 billion for itself in 2024, while Nigerians struggle to survive on a minimum wage of ₦30,000.

This stark disparity raises questions about the priorities of elected representatives. Legislative sessions are often characterized by absences, delays, and political maneuvering rather than meaningful discussions on the issues affecting Nigerians. Despite their influence over the nation’s laws and finances, the National Assembly members are rarely held accountable by their constituents, who instead channel all frustrations toward the Presidency.

Local Governments: The Neglected Powerhouses

One of the most overlooked sectors in Nigeria’s political framework is local government. These entities receive about 20% of federal allocations, with responsibilities that include primary education, primary healthcare, and local infrastructure. However, many local governments function as mere extensions of the state governor’s power, with funds disappearing and little accountability. Public restrooms, health centers, and primary schools in numerous LGAs across Nigeria are in abysmal conditions, even as councilors and chairmen continue to draw salaries.

For instance, in a 2022 report, BudgIT, a civic organization, highlighted that local governments in some states failed to account for millions in federal allocations. In some cases, funds were spent on extravagant allowances, leaving the communities without essential services. The question we must ask is why Nigerians do not demand more from these officials, who are directly responsible for addressing their basic needs.

The Judiciary: A Bastion of Corruption

As for the judiciary, which serves as a check on all branches of government, reports have shown that corruption runs deep in this institution as well. Nigeria ranks 150th out of 180 countries in the 2023 Rule of Law Index, underscoring the judiciary’s failure to deliver timely and impartial judgments. High-profile cases involving misappropriation of funds are often prolonged or dismissed, while average Nigerians struggle for years in a system that should offer them justice.

The police, too, play a role in this cycle. Cases of bribery and extrajudicial actions persist, with citizens regularly encountering demands for “settlements” even in routine matters. It’s no wonder Nigerians feel abandoned when law enforcement seems more interested in extorting citizens than protecting them. But while Nigerians frequently demand reforms, many seem to have accepted this injustice as part of life, directing their anger instead toward the Presidency.

The President’s Efforts: Why Tinubu Cannot Do It Alone

Since taking office, President Tinubu has initiated policies under his Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at reviving Nigeria’s economy and reducing poverty. These policies include removing fuel subsidies to curb corruption and reallocating funds to public welfare projects. He has also championed investments in agriculture, launched social intervention programs, and encouraged foreign investments to foster job creation.

However, no single policy can succeed without support from state and local governments, which are responsible for its grassroots implementation. If a governor fails to ensure that funds reach intended projects or a councilor disregards local infrastructure, these efforts are sabotaged.

It is essential to understand that Nigeria’s federal system divides responsibilities across multiple levels of government. State governments, for instance, are accountable for healthcare, public education, and local security. If citizens face hardship in these areas, local and state leaders should bear the brunt of the blame. The President can only direct federal policies; it’s up to governors and local authorities to bring these policies to life.

Tinubu Is Not the Enemy of the Common Man

So, as Nigerians endure these difficult times, let’s question where our anger is directed. President Tinubu is certainly not a flawless leader, but he is far from the primary culprit in Nigeria’s woes. It’s time to demand accountability from the officials closest to us—the governors, legislators, councilors, and judicial officers who bear direct responsibility for our daily struggles. By overlooking their failures, we give them a free pass while condemning the very leaders who are trying, within their limitations, to change Nigeria for the better.