The irony is palpable. I recall the days when some brilliant minds in Baba Obasanjo’s administration pushed for the privatization of public businesses, and the critics were loud and clear. Fast forward to today, and it’s astonishing to see those same critics not only privatizing but also sharing public assets with their cohorts.
It’s a classic case of “we told you so,” but the consequences are far from amusing. The current state of Nigeria is a mess, and it’s hard to deny that we’ve never been this less proud. The so-called leaders have managed to gather a clique of thieves, greedy individuals, and shameless culprits to rule over us.
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The impact of corruption on Nigeria’s economy is staggering. According to PwC, corruption could cost Nigeria up to 37% of its GDP by 2030 if left unchecked. This translates to around $1,000 per person in 2019 and nearly $2,000 per person by 2030. It’s a bleak future, indeed.
To make matters worse, the same individuals who once criticized privatization are now actively involved in it, sharing public assets with their cohorts. This hypocrisy is a slap in the face, and it’s time for Nigerians to demand better from their leaders.
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The privatization of public enterprises, which was meant to boost efficiency and productivity, has instead become a conduit for corruption and exploitation. The lack of transparency and accountability has allowed those in power to plunder public assets, leaving the majority to suffer.
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It’s time for Nigerians to wake up and demand better from their leaders. We need to hold them accountable for their actions and ensure that public assets are used for the greater good, not just to line the pockets of a select few.
We must all get involved.
Ife Akande is my name
Writing from Ibadan.
