Silent echoes: who speaks for the Nigerian masses in the face of the worsening cost of living? -By Isaac Asabor

In the annals of history, prophets were once steadfast defenders of the oppressed, their voices echoing through the ages. Statesmen also defended the cause of the people and their eloquence shaped nations. But today, in the tumult of modern politics, who is raising their voice on behalf of the Nigerian masses?

In biblical times, prophets emerged from the shadows, their words collectively a divine mandate. They confronted kings, defied oppressors and demanded justice. Their duty was sacred: to amplify the cries of the marginalized, to bridge the gap between heaven and earth.

In fact, in the past, Nigeria’s greatest kings wielded considerable influence and spoke for their people. These traditional rulers were revered spiritual leaders and cultural custodians. Their authority extended beyond simple governance, they acted as mediators in conflicts, maintained cultural norms, and served as intermediaries between the community and higher powers.

However, over time their power diminished. Today, traditional rulers are largely symbolic figures, subject to state governments and funded by public resources. Although they retain their greatness, their ability to defend the interests of the people has diminished, leaving a void that politicians now fill¹. Younger generations often view these institutions as outdated, and the once-powerful voices of supreme kings have become quieter in the corridors of power.

Despite this, we can still learn from their historical role in shaping Nigerian society and governance, appreciating the legacy they left behind. Perhaps it is time for a revival, a return to the days when supreme kings truly spoke for the people, transcending politics and bureaucracy.

Fast forward to the statesman era. These visionaries navigated dangerous political waters, their compass firmly focused on the well-being of their people. They crafted policies, forged alliances, and spoke truth to power. Their legacy remains engraved in the annals of progress.

But where are these champions today? The echoes of their voices have faded, replaced by a cacophony of self-interest, corruption and indifference. Nigerian politicians, once seen as stewards of the masses, now prioritize affluence over governance. They dance at lavish parties, their pockets full of public funds, while the people suffer.

Undoubtedly, the Nigerian masses, the heart of the nation, are struggling with each passing day, especially since May 29, 2023, when a new government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu came to power. rising food prices, inflation and economic challenges. They long for defenders who will amplify their plight, who will defend their cause. Yet the corridors of power remain eerily quiet.

Where are the voices that should be ringing out across the country to demand accountability? Who will speak in the name of traders, artisans, young unemployed people? The silence is deafening.

At this juncture, it is worth noting that this is not the first time that questions have been asked regarding the fate of Nigerian statesmen, prophets and traditional rulers who should speak truth to power. It will be recalled in this context that Peterside Ottong, reggae musician, in his 1989 music album asked “Where are the prophets?” Unfortunately, the question still awaits an answer.

The question, after more than thirty years, remains unanswered, given that millions of people seem to be looking for prophets who would begin to speak on their behalf to those in power. The reason is not far-fetched, as it seems our political leaders are not listening to the voice of the “common man”. Pastors and men of God, whom this article metaphorically calls prophets, remain surprisingly silent on crucial national issues.

In fact, it is sad that prominent Nigerians who have the privilege of visiting the offices of prominent politicians in all 36 states. Pastors, whom most of us reverently regard as our own modern-day prophets, apparently find it difficult to call our errant political leaders to order when their performance appears to have fallen far below expectations.

It is time for a resurgence, a return to purpose. Nigerian politicians must shed their indifference and assume their sacred duty. They must remember that they are the servants of the people and not the masters of opulence.

But it’s not just politicians who need to stand up. Journalists, activists and ordinary citizens, everyone has a role to play. Let our feathers be swords, our voices trumpets. Let us amplify the silent echoes, demanding justice, transparency and compassion.

In this battle for the Nigerian masses, we are all prophets, statesmen and defenders. Our legacy awaits us, not in grand speeches, but in the lives we touch, the policies we shape, and the hearts we lift up.

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