When The Wicked Rule, The People Mourn: A Truth Nigeria Can’t Ignore, by Isaac Asabor

Proverbs 29:2 states, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.” The foregoing scripture has found a stark and glaring resonance in modern-day Nigeria. As the nation grapples with economic hardship, paddy-paddy politics and social discontent, one cannot help but see the truth of this verse playing out in real-time.

Nigeria, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” is a country blessed with abundant human and natural resources. However, this potential remains largely untapped due to poor governance, corruption, and self-serving leadership. The result? Widespread poverty, insecurity, and an ever-growing chasm between the rulers and the ruled.

From skyrocketing inflation to dwindling purchasing power, Nigerians are experiencing the harsh consequences of poor leadership. The mourning, as referenced in Proverbs, is not just metaphorical but literal, manifesting in the cries of hungry children, the frustration of unemployed graduates, and the despair of retirees who cannot access their pensions. 

Nigeria’s leadership trajectory is littered with instances that affirm the validity of this scriptural truth. Decades of military rule, followed by a supposedly democratic dispensation, have not significantly alleviated the sufferings of the masses. Instead, successive administrations have often acted in ways that suggest governance is for personal gain rather than public good. 

Take the case of the fuel subsidy removal under the current administration. While it was hailed as a necessary step for economic reform, the implementation has left much to be desired. Without adequate cushioning mechanisms for the poor, Nigerians are paying exorbitant prices for basic commodities. The once-symbolic 50kg bag of rice is now a luxury item for many households, and transportation costs have doubled, plunging millions into deeper poverty. 

This scenario echoes the scripture’s warning: when wickedness prevails in leadership, the people groan under its weight.

The first part of Proverbs 29:2 highlights an alternative reality: “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice.” What would righteousness in leadership look like in Nigeria? 

Righteous leaders prioritize the welfare of their people over personal enrichment. They create policies that foster economic growth, ensure security, and promote justice. Such leadership is accountable, transparent, and inclusive. Countries like Rwanda and Singapore, despite their past struggles, have shown that righteous governance can transform nations. 

In Nigeria’s context, the leadership of individuals like late Dora Akunyili as the DG of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) during her service-oriented earthly journey, and Babatunde Fashola during his tenure as Lagos State governor provide glimpses of this righteousness. Their commitment to service, transparency, and innovation brought about measurable improvements in their respective spheres. 

If more leaders followed their example, Nigerians could indeed rejoice, experiencing the dividends of good governance. 

The scripture’s message is not just a warning but also a call to action. For the righteous to be in authority, the people must first make righteous choices. This involves evaluating candidates based on their character, track record, and policies rather than tribal, religious, or monetary considerations. 

Unfortunately, Nigeria’s electoral process often undermines this ideal. Vote buying, electoral violence, and a lack of voter education have made it challenging for the masses to choose leaders wisely. The cycle of poor leadership continues, leaving the people mourning yet again. 

However, the rise of political awareness among Nigerian youths, as seen in the #EndSARS and EndBadGovernance protests and the recent surge in voter registration, suggests that a new era might be on the horizon. Nigerians must seize this momentum to demand better governance and hold leaders accountable. 

Governance is not just about policies and economics; it is also a moral calling. Leaders are entrusted with the lives and destinies of millions. When they fail to lead with integrity, they not only betray this trust but also set a dangerous precedent for future generations. 

The moral decay in Nigeria’s leadership is evident in the unending corruption scandals, mismanagement of public funds, and impunity among political elites. For example, recent revelations about lawmakers earning outrageous salaries while ordinary Nigerians struggle to afford basic necessities have further widened the trust gap between the government and the governed. 

This moral disconnect underscores the importance of electing leaders with a strong ethical foundation. Righteous leaders recognize that their authority is a divine mandate to serve, not to oppress. 

Given the biblical roots of this conversation, it is important to examine the role of the Church in fostering righteous leadership. Nigerian churches wield significant influence over their congregations. They must use this platform to promote civic responsibility and educate their members on the importance of righteous governance. 

The Church should also hold leaders accountable, acting as a moral compass for society. Silence in the face of injustice and corruption is complicity. As Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

Proverbs 29:2 offers not just a diagnosis of Nigeria’s woes but also a prescription for healing. To transform mourning into rejoicing, the nation needs a collective effort toward renewal. 

Given the foregoing backdrop, Nigerian leaders must embrace a servant-leadership mindset, prioritizing the welfare of the people over personal gain. This requires not just political reforms but also moral and spiritual awakening among the ruling class. 

On the other hand, citizens must rise above apathy and take active roles in governance. This includes participating in elections, holding leaders accountable, and advocating for transparency and justice. 

Also, the younger generation must be equipped with the tools and knowledge to lead. Mentorship programs, education reforms, and opportunities for political participation can prepare them to take up the mantle of righteous leadership. 

Another effort that can yield positive result toward renewal is that of strengthening Nigeria’s institutions to ensure accountability and justice as they are crucial. This is as independent and functional judiciary, anti-corruption agencies, and electoral commissions are non-negotiable in this renewal process. 

The truth in Proverbs 29:2 is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. Nigeria’s current state of mourning is a direct result of the wickedness in governance. However, the promise of rejoicing under righteous leadership offers a glimmer of hope. 

As the nation stands at a crossroads, it must choose between continuing the cycle of poor leadership or striving for a future where righteousness reigns. Nigerians, from leaders to ordinary citizens, must rise to the occasion, heeding the timeless wisdom of Proverbs. Only then can the mourning of today give way to the rejoicing of tomorrow.