Nigeria, like many nations, yearns for righteous leadership. Yet time and again, the hope for a just ruler seems to fade into disappointment. This cycle is not unique to our country, but reflects a deeper truth about human nature and governance.
As Jesus Christ proclaimed in the Gospel of John:
"And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil." (John 3:19, KJV)
This profound statement cuts to the heart of Nigeria's political challenges. Even when presented with righteous candidates or policies, many resist positive change because it threatens their ability to perpetrate corruption and injustice.
We've witnessed this pattern repeatedly in our nation's history. Leaders who campaigned on promises of reform often succumb to the very systems of graft they once decried. Why? Because true reform would dismantle the networks of patronage and illicit wealth that keep many in power.
The prophet Isaiah's words ring true today:
"Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils: for wherein is he to be accounted of?" (Isaiah 2:22, KJV)
Our hope cannot rest in fallible human leaders, no matter how noble their initial intentions. The temptations of power are great, and even the most steadfast can be swayed.
Consider the case of President Muhammadu Buhari. He came to power in 2015 on an anti-corruption platform, with many Nigerians hopeful for change. Yet by the end of his tenure, critics argued that corruption remained entrenched, with accusations of nepotism and selective prosecution tarnishing his legacy.
This phenomenon isn't limited to Nigeria. Across Africa and beyond, we see promising reformers struggle against deeply entrenched systems of corruption. In South Africa, the presidency of Cyril Ramaphosa, once hailed as a clean break from the scandals of Jacob Zuma, has been mired in its own controversies.
So what hope remains for Nigeria and nations like it? The answer lies not in despair, but in a shift of perspective.
First, we must recognize that true, lasting change will not come through political systems alone. As Christians, we await the return of Jesus Christ, who will establish His kingdom with perfect justice and righteousness. As it is written:
"And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever." (Daniel 2:44, KJV)
This eternal hope should not lead to passivity, however. In the interim, we are called to be salt and light in our communities. Righteous leadership may be scarce in the halls of power, but it can flourish in our homes, churches, and local organizations.
Nigerian citizens must recognize that in many ways, we live in a state of limited governance. Rather than waiting for top-down solutions, we must take responsibility for building up our nation from the grassroots. This means:
- Fostering strong, ethical communities that resist corruption.
- Supporting and participating in civil society organizations that promote transparency and accountability.
- Investing in education and skill development to empower the next generation.
- Encouraging entrepreneurship and economic initiatives that reduce dependence on government patronage.
The task before us is immense, but not impossible. Throughout history, God has used faithful individuals and communities to bring about transformation, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Remember the words of the Apostle Paul:
"And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." (Galatians 6:9, KJV)
As we labor for Nigeria's betterment, we do so with our eyes fixed on a greater kingdom to come. Our present struggles are but a shadow of the glory that awaits. Until that day, let us be found faithful in the work set before us, building a more just and righteous nation, one life at a time.
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