The Politics of Self-Interest and Endless Control: When Power Becomes Personal Property By Festus Edovia

In Nigeria’s evolving democratic space, leadership is increasingly being reduced to a struggle for personal survival rather than public service. For many political actors, the central objective appears no longer to serve the people, but to capture power and retain it for as long as possible.

What should be a responsibility anchored on accountability and national development has, in many cases, been converted into a private enterprise sustained by influence, patronage, and ambition. Public office is often treated less as a duty to citizens and more as a prize reserved for a select political class and their allies.

The consequence is visible across the country.

Resources that should strengthen healthcare systems, improve education, expand infrastructure, enhance security, and create jobs are frequently diverted into political campaigns, internal power struggles, and efforts to consolidate control. Instead of translating into better living conditions, national wealth is repeatedly consumed by political competition and elite self-preservation.

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This pattern raises a fundamental concern: governance or organised self-interest?

Across Nigeria, insecurity continues to deepen in several regions. Communities remain vulnerable, businesses struggle under unstable power supply, roads are deteriorating, and inflation continues to erode purchasing power. Many citizens are trapped in a cycle where basic survival—food, healthcare, and shelter—has become increasingly difficult.

Yet, in the midst of these challenges, political attention often remains fixed on elections, alliances, and succession battles.

This disconnect between leadership priorities and public suffering has created a widening gap of distrust between citizens and the political class.

At its core, governance is meant to be a social contract; an agreement where authority is exercised in exchange for public welfare and development. When that contract is weakened or ignored, politics risks becoming a tool of extraction rather than service.

Nigeria cannot afford a system where public office is treated as personal inheritance or political reward. A nation cannot progress sustainably when leadership is driven primarily by ambition without accountability.

The growing concern among many citizens is not just about poor performance, but about intent—the perception that power is being pursued for control rather than contribution.

This moment demands reflection.

If democracy is to retain meaning, it must be accompanied by responsibility. Leadership must return to its foundational purpose: service to the people, protection of lives, and improvement of living standards.

For citizens, the responsibility is equally important. Political participation cannot end at elections. It must include scrutiny, engagement, and a deliberate rejection of leadership that prioritises self-interest over public good.

Nigeria does not lack potential. What is often in question is the willingness of its leadership class to place national interest above personal ambition.

Until that changes, the cycle of power without purpose risks continuing at the expense of the very people governance is meant to serve.

Written by Festus Edovia, ANIPR, FICM