By Asmau Benzies Leo
The current trajectory of governance in Nigeria is deeply troubling. At a time when the nation is grappling with pervasive insecurity, economic instability, rising poverty, youth unemployment, and the erosion of public trust in democratic institutions, it is disheartening to witness the political establishment channel its energy toward persecuting a woman who has chosen to stand for justice, accountability, and the constitutional rights guaranteed to every Nigerian.
The attempt to jail a female senator who has distinguished herself in a male-dominated chamber by championing the causes that many of her male counterparts have either ignored or failed to confront sends a dangerous signal about the state of our democracy. It reinforces a culture of silencing dissent, punishing courage, and weaponizing the legal system against voices of truth and conscience.
Such actions not only undermine the principles of fairness and rule of law but also discourage women and young people from engaging in politics and public service, fearing retribution for refusing to conform to a broken system. It reveals, yet again, the entrenched patriarchal and authoritarian tendencies within the political establishment that are determined to suppress reformers rather than address the real issues afflicting our society.
At a time when we should be investing in good governance, strengthening democratic institutions, and protecting human rights, the focus has tragically shifted to intimidation and political witch-hunts. This must not stand. The implications of allowing such injustice to prevail are grave: the further erosion of public trust, the deepening of national disillusionment, and the normalization of tyranny under the guise of due process.
We must all raise our voices to defend the integrity of our democracy, protect those who speak truth to power, and demand accountability from those entrusted with the leadership of this nation. Nigeria cannot move forward by punishing its best; it can only progress when it begins to honour them.
The views expressed by contributors are strictly personal and not of Law & Society Magazine.
