In Nigeria, it has become easy for politicians to manipulate the minds of young people. The average youth, often eager for change but lacking critical political consciousness, becomes a tool in the hands of those who have mastered the game of deceit.
Take a closer look at the trick: some politicians who are openly Muslim find their way into churches during campaign seasons. They hold Bibles, pose at the altar, and take carefully staged photos with pastors. The next thing you see? These images flood social media platforms with praise-singing comments like: “Wow! He’s not a religious bigot,” or “He’s the kind of leader we need!”
But when did holding a Bible become a test of leadership?
It’s disheartening that many young people continue to applaud these performances without asking deeper questions. When will we wake up? When will we stop celebrating the same people who are largely responsible for our national setbacks?
What’s even more troubling is the rise of “internet bandits” aggressive online defenders of corrupt administrations. To them, anyone who criticizes the government is a traitor or enemy of progress. In their world, those of us who dare to ask questions or demand accountability are the problem not the corrupt leaders clinging to power like royalty.
Until Nigerian youths come together, united beyond religion, ethnicity, or region, and hold these manipulative politicians accountable, a better Nigeria will remain a distant dream.
Let it be said; that any politician who weaponizes religion should not be trusted. They are all playing the same deceptive game camouflaging selfish ambition with holy gestures, all in the bid to access the “national cake.”
Nigerian youths must rise above these tricks. Look beyond who visits your church or mosque. Ask; what values does this person uphold? What have they done? What can they deliver?
When a politician shows up at your place of worship offering peanuts and prayers, ask them instead to build schools, hospitals, or fix the roads you use daily. Because once they get into office, you won’t hear from them again until their tenure ends and they’ll crawl back with the same manipulative tactics.
Let’s stop being used. Let’s start thinking critically.
Nigeria’s future depends on it.
ONONO writes from Bayero University Kano and can be reached via [email protected]
