The Perils of Military Rule in West Africa and Why it Must Be Resisted
The advocacy for military rule in West Africa must be staunchly opposed. Despite the turmoil and suffering it has inflicted in the past, there appears to be a growing movement within the sub-region in favour of military dictatorships. It is imperative that a unified effort be made to combat this perilous trend and to safeguard and bolster democracy in West Africa.
The nations of West Africa cannot afford to regress to the dark era of military rule. It is widely recognised that “power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely,” and entrusting the fate of a nation and its people to a single individual is a recipe for catastrophe.
The devastating consequences of military control in West Africa have been vividly demonstrated by the history of Nigeria. The disruption of democracy by the Nigerian military in 1966 had a profound impact on the country’s potential for economic and social development. The decline in Nigeria’s economy and the detrimental effects of military rule serve as a cautionary tale for the entire region.
For instance, in the 1960s, Eastern Nigeria’s economy was thriving, with significant contributions to the global agricultural market and substantial industrial output. However, the military takeover disrupted this progress and led to a decline in economic prosperity and national development.
Furthermore, the Nigerian experience illustrates that military rule was responsible for the institutionalisation of corruption and the erosion of public institutions. The military regime’s disregard for due process and the rule of law facilitated the widespread theft of public funds and the entrenchment of corruption as a systemic issue in Nigerian society.
The adverse impact of military rule on public institutions, education, and the overall social and cultural fabric of the country cannot be overstated. The suppression of civil liberties and disregard for human rights under military dictatorship have had far-reaching consequences for Nigerian society.
It is evident that military rule is detrimental to the development and progress of any nation. The concentration of power in the hands of a single individual, as is the case with military dictatorship, undermines the foundational principles of a modern democracy. In contrast, democracy empowers the people to shape the direction of their country and uphold the rule of law.
The resurgence of military rule in West Africa would be a retrogressive and harmful step. Advocates for military dictatorships must reconsider their position and recognise the inherent dangers and pitfalls of such a system of governance.
In conclusion, the people of West Africa must persevere in their resistance against the push for military rule and strive for the preservation and advancement of democratic values. The lessons of history must guide us in the fight to prevent the re-emergence of brutal military regimes in the region.
Dr Law Mefor, a distinguished forensic and social psychologist, and fellow of The Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts, has shared his insights on this critical issue. His expertise and the important points he raises underscore the urgency of opposing the return of military rule in West Africa.
