At a recent event hosted by First Daily, Professor Godknows Igali spoke passionately about civic responsibility, political integrity, and the need to nurture a democratic culture in Nigeria. His address underscored the power of positive, non-violent resistance and the crucial role ordinary citizens play in shaping the nation’s future.
Ambassador Igali drew parallels between Nigeria’s democratic challenges and global struggles for justice. He highlighted the United States’ civil rights movement, where leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Jesse Jackson fought Jim Crow laws through civic engagement and peaceful advocacy. “Resisting what is wrong in a positive way changes societies,” he said. “This is the same principle we must apply at every level in Nigeria.”
He shared a striking example from grassroots democracy: in one local election, voters rejected a bribe of 15,000 naira, choosing instead to vote honestly for 5,000 naira. “Ordinary people are not as ignorant or self-serving as we often assume,” he said. “They still have a moral consciousness that guides them to do what is right.” He added that movements like the Arab Spring further demonstrate the transformative power of collective civic action.
Professor Igali also addressed systemic challenges within Nigeria’s political parties. He recounted instances where talented candidates were excluded from primaries through manipulation or imposed consensus, limiting opportunities for capable leaders to emerge. “Election rigging begins at the party level,” he said. “If we continue to weed out the best Nigerians, the country will suffer over generations.”
He urged media practitioners and civic actors to persist in promoting transparency, accountability, and informed citizenry. “Those who are in a position to speak out must continue. Change will come,” he said, noting that historical victories over slavery, apartheid, and racial discrimination were achieved through sustained civic engagement.
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The event also featured the presentation of an Award by Professor Igali, to Governor Diri, as the Governor of the year, achievements in infrastructural development.
Professor Igali encouraged the governor to sustain these efforts, emphasizing the link between ethical leadership, civic responsibility, and national progress.
Attendees left inspired, reminded that informed citizens and ethical leaders, supported by continuous civic engagement, are essential to building a stronger democratic Nigeria.