As I woke up this morning, my mind wandered to a remarkable book that holds deep significance for Nigeria’s political history. Titled “The Fall of the Second Republic of Nigeria, 1979-1983: A Lesson for the Future,” this insightful work is co-authored by two distinguished scholars, Yemi Ebenezer Aluko and Ediagbonya Michael, from Ekiti State University. Their analysis of the turbulent years of the Second Republic provides invaluable lessons, offering a mirror to reflect on the past while shedding light on the path that lies ahead.
This book provides a vivid account of the political missteps that led to the collapse of Nigeria’s Second Republic. It sheds light on the recklessness and failures of the political class during that era, a period marked by rampant corruption, electoral fraud, and a blatant disregard for the rule of law. The arrogance of the political elites, who ignored the will of the people, was a defining characteristic of this short-lived period in Nigeria’s democratic experiment.
What strikes me most in this book is how the leaders of the Second Republic failed to learn from the mistakes of the First Republic, especially when it came to rigged elections and political violence. The book is a powerful reminder of how history tends to repeat itself when its lessons are ignored.
This brings me to the present. When I came across Uche Secondus’ recent press statement about the growing threats to our democracy, I was deeply moved. It reminded me of the dire warnings from our past. History has shown us time and again that democratic stability is fragile, and the actions of those in power can either protect or unravel it.
My appeal to President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress is simple: let the mistakes of the past serve as a guide for the present. The errors of the Second Republic—unfair elections, constitutional violations, and corrupt governance—must not be repeated. Democracy, to me, is like eba, satisfying and nourishing when respected. But it is a delicacy that can easily sour if mishandled.
It is also crucial for the opposition to exercise restraint and wisdom in their public statements regarding national politics. Reckless or inflammatory commentary, especially in the current volatile environment, could incite tensions and contribute to instability, much like what transpired during the Second Republic. The political climate at that time deteriorated due to the unchecked rhetoric and divisive remarks from various quarters, which eventually undermined democratic processes. To avoid a repeat of history, all political actors, particularly the opposition, must recognize the weight of their words and the impact they have on the broader society.
Democracy is fragile and must be safeguarded through responsible dialogue, constructive criticism, and a focus on nation-building rather than division. The lessons from our past should serve as a warning, reminding us that democracy requires constant nurturing and protection from those who might, intentionally or unintentionally, endanger its survival.
As the saying goes, “Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” We must not be doomed by our own negligence.
Mr Adeoye is the Publisher/EIC of WesternLifeNewsNG
