Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, has raised the alarm over Nigeria’s deteriorating adherence to the rule of law, warning that the country is edging closer to lawlessness and chaos.
Speaking on Wednesday when a delegation from the Niger Delta University (NDU) Law Faculty, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Allen Agih, paid him a courtesy visit in Yenagoa, Ewhrudjakpo declared that Nigeria is merely “wearing the toga of democracy” rather than practicing genuine democratic governance.
Democracy Under Threat
The deputy governor lamented the growing trend of political power abuse, emphasizing that democracy cannot thrive without strict adherence to the rule of law. According to a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, he cautioned that if this trend persists, Nigeria risks total anarchy.
“The rule of law is the foundation of any democracy. Once it is disregarded, what we have is not democracy but a descent into brute life and chaos,” Ewhrudjakpo stated.
He criticized Nigerian leaders for prioritizing personal gain over the welfare of the masses, contrasting their approach with that of individuals like Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who contributes to society through philanthropic efforts.
Call for Selfless Leadership
Ewhrudjakpo also paid tribute to the late U.S. President Jimmy Carter for his contributions to global democracy and healthcare, lamenting that while other nations work to strengthen democratic values, deliberate efforts are being made to undermine them in Nigeria.
Expressing his commitment to public service, he urged individuals in positions of power to prioritize giving back to society. “At this stage of my life, I owe society. It no longer owes me,” he remarked.
Government’s Commitment to Education
The deputy governor assured the NDU delegation that the government would address key infrastructural challenges at the university’s Faculty of Law, including expanding the e-library and improving hostel accommodations before the next accreditation visit by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Council for Legal Education.
Prof. Agih, in his remarks, commended Ewhrudjakpo for his unwavering support for the university and his personal commitment to teaching law students. Acting Dean of the Faculty, Dr. Gogo Otuturu, also acknowledged his contributions, particularly his willingness to lecture students despite his tight schedule.
The visit concluded with the presentation of a Certificate of Appreciation to the deputy governor for his dedication to legal education and academic development.
