A Public Affairs Analyst, Mr. George Humphrey, has expressed concern over what he described as the increasing influence of money in Nigeria’s political system.
A statement signed by him in Abuja warns that the trend is weakening democratic values and discouraging competent citizens from participating in governance.
On the state of the nation’s politics, Humphrey says the country’s political environment has become one in which financial strength often takes precedence over competence, experience, and integrity.
According to him, many political parties have gradually shifted away from promoting merit-based leadership, creating a system where those with substantial financial resources enjoy greater opportunities than qualified individuals with proven records of service.
“Nigerian politics is increasingly becoming a contest of financial power rather than a competition of ideas, competence, and vision. In many cases, qualifications, credentials, experience, and capacity to lead are pushed aside, while money becomes the determining factor,” he states
The statement notes that the development has contributed to growing public distrust in political institutions and electoral processes, particularly among young people who believe the political space has become inaccessible to ordinary citizens.
It states that the dominance of money politics has continued to undermine efforts to strengthen democratic governance, adding that many capable Nigerians are discouraged from seeking elective offices because they cannot compete financially with established political actors.
“The unfortunate reality is that many citizens now view politics as an investment rather than a platform for service. This perception has fueled unhealthy competition, desperation, and excessive spending during elections and party activities,” he adds.
The statement further lamented that the conduct of some politicians has projected a negative image of the country before the international community.
“It is painful that when the world looks at Nigeria, it often sees a political system characterized by desperation, excessive influence of money, and personal interests rather than genuine commitment to national development. This should concern every patriotic Nigerian,” Humphrey stresses.
It stresses that sustainable development can only be achieved when leadership positions are occupied by individuals with the required competence, character, and commitment to public service.
The statement calls on political parties, electoral stakeholders, civil society organizations, and citizens to work collectively toward reforms that would promote transparency, accountability, and merit-based leadership.
“Nigeria cannot achieve its full potential if competence continues to be sacrificed for financial influence. Our democracy must reward integrity, capacity, and service. Until merit becomes the foundation of political leadership, the nation’s development aspirations will remain difficult to attain,” he states.
It urges Nigerians to demand higher standards from political leaders and support reforms aimed at reducing the influence of money in politics.
