Prof. Nasiru Adamu Aliyu, SAN
In his play The Tragedy of Hamlet, William Shakespeare wrote, “God has given you one face, and you make yourself another.” Shakespeare’s words highlight the duplicity of pretenders, a theme that echoes through history. Aristotle, one of history’s greatest thinkers, also addressed the nature of pretenders in his ethical writings, stating, “The least deviation from truth will be multiplied later.” He emphasized the importance of authenticity, warning that pretence can lead to serious consequences. This concept resonates in Nigeria, where the elites appear caught in duplicity, while ordinary people suffer from poverty, subjugation, and ignorance of their fundamental rights.
Nigerians at all levels exhibit selfishness and self-centeredness, contributing to the nation’s issues. Shame on our Nigerian Police, DSS, Military, and other Security agencies, as well as Lawyers, whether from the Public or Private Bar, for complicity in turning a blind eye to the plight of ordinary citizens. Currently, the thorny issue concerns the so-called treason charges against minors before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Judges, politicians, lawyers, police, DSS, correctional officers, clerics, governorsthe President, and other stakeholders have the responsibility to discern right from wrong, particularly when minors are involved. Yet, self-preservation remains paramount among the Nigerian elites, who lack the courage and fear of God to act truthfully.
It is not the writer’s contention that people who commit crimes should evade justice; rather, justice should be administered with decorum, fairness, and equality, with no preferential treatment for white-collar crimesThe Nigerian Government struggles to address corruption, banditry, and kidnappings across various regions effectively. While successive administrations have claimed to combat these menaces, criminal activities remain rampant. Instead, authorities focus on arresting and prosecuting protesters. The situation highlights Nigeria’s collective failure, as even the controversial treason charges against minors indicate the systemic injustice faced by “ordinary” citizens. These children are seen as “sons of nobody,” making their mistreatment by politicians, the judiciary, and law enforcement more permissible.
The government has yet to make substantial progress in addressing these societal issues. A legitimate expectation remains for leaders to demonstrate accountability and empathy, especially towards young protesters detained under questionable charges. President Tinubu eventually ordered the release of the minors, but only after significant national and international embarrassment. Leaders in Nigeria must abandon pretence and start genuinely considering the plight of their people.
This issue of duplicity among Nigeria’s elite extends into the judiciary. Nigerian courts are quick to prioritize political cases over cases that defend the fundamental human rights of ordinary citizens. Surprisingly, the prosecutor handling the treason charges against these minors confidently dismissed them as adults attempting to undermine democracy. Such audacity highlights a broader lack of empathy within the justice system. Nigerian democracy has, to date, yielded limited benefits for the general populace, benefiting primarily those in power.
Nigeria’s judiciary must be fearless, uphold justice, and show independence. The Nigerian Supreme Court recently ruled that state governors must hold local government elections to access federal allocations, a decision reflecting the type of bold action required to curb abuse of power. Courageous judges exist within Nigeria’s judicial system; however, they are often restricted from handling cases involving significant government interests. Politicians frequently employ blackmail tactics to maintain control over judiciary decisions.
The Nigerian media and journalists have played a crucial role in highlighting the plight of these minors, despite their initial silence. The journalists’ work brought national attention to the injustices faced by these young detainees, compelling politicians, lawyers, and clergymen to address the issue, even if for political gain. The origin of banditry by Fulani herders, for instance, stemmed from injustice and neglect, issues that Nigerian leaders have yet to address effectively.
In closing, whether readers accept or dismiss this piece, the truth will eventually prevail. As a nation, Nigeria must learn from history and confront these injustices if it hopes to move forward.
Prof. Nasiru Adamu Aliyu, SAN, writes from the Department of Public Law, Bayero University, Kano: nasiraliyu@gmail.com, +2348035883225.
