Our Classless Political Class

“I no be gentleman at all o”

The words to a classic Nigerian song. Actually, the only words I remember from it.

The past year has been full of activity in our political institutions. From the State Houses of Assembly, to the Governors Forum, and the National Assembly. Words spoken in anger, threats made on lives of persons, fights with and without weapons (maces). The ruling class are indeed not gentlemen.

In the class structure, there are different cadres measured according to economic, social and cultural characteristics. The political class is one set apart due to the acquisition/occupation of political positions. This class includes both past, present and aspiring political office holders.

The activities in our not so nascent democracy shows that our political class is chaotic. The brawls which are expected of inebriated bar patrons are common place in our political institutions. In comparison with the nations we desire to partner with, our leaders are uncivilised.

Our political scene is full of (s)elected leaders who by hook or crook ascend political positions. Their failure to be ambassadors gives credence to the fact that they can steal the votes but they can’t steal class (paraphrasing Shawn Carter).

Our generation has adopted a word for uncomely social behaviour, Razz. This sort of behaviour, though commonplace, is not exemplary. It also sheds a bad light on our Country’s image.

Are these the examples we want for our children?

Are they the best representation of the characteristics of the Nigerian people?

I recently heard of the way a past president conducts himself at a dinner table. I also recall the chants of fraternity lingo during the Rivers State House of Assembly fracas. It is no wonder the developed world doesn’t take us seriously.

Yes, a nation’s leaders are picked from within its people. I’d like to believe we have better representatives of what we want to be seen as by the Outside World. While we re-brand the Nation to draw in foreign investment, it is important that our leaders are also re-branded so as to command the respect we desire.

P.S.: That female rep really did tear the Amaechi Muonagor look-alike’s outfit. Someone’s mother. Smh.