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Nigeria: The Politics of the Hunger Protest and the Wrong Move for the Government’s Attention

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1 year ago

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Nigeria: The Politics of the Hunger Protest and the Wrong Move for the Government's Attention

Nigeria: The Politics of the Hunger Protest and the Wrong Move for the Government’s Attention

By: Dr. James Bwala

In the legendary 1955 film Rebel Without a Cause, three middle-class teenagers unexpectedly commit three separate crimes and then claim their acts were due to the fact that they were frustrated with their parental situations. In real life, a rebellion sociology definition refers to when an individual rebuffs goals and means that are accepted by a society and replaces them with goals and means that are not accepted by the society. This claim is corroborated by the definition by Robert K. Merton, which defines rebellion as when an individual replaces goals, as well as means, that are accepted by their society with goals, as well as means, that are not accepted by their society. He also defines rebellion as being more extreme than retreatism.

The August 1–10 announcement of a peaceful protest was like the classical film Rebel without a Cause; in this case, however, I can say, Protest without a Cause. Although the protest was tagged as ‘Hunger Protest’, with a promise of a peaceful movement, the resulting end clearly indicated that more than issues of hunger, the protest has its own agenda to achieve beyond the surface to which it was organized. Political protest is defined as a variety of methods used by individuals and groups to express dissatisfaction with the current political system, often involving mass activism outside of traditional parliamentary channels, such as demonstrations, boycotts, and civil disobedience. What the organizers said is that the protest is going to be peaceful. But what we saw from day one to day five of this protest was the sociology definition in Robert K. Morton’s words: rebellion. 

How can someone explain the sense of burning our national flag and raising the flag of another country or the military flag in democratic settings with a call for military intervention if the real reason behind the protest is hunger? 

Hunger is defined by the United Nations as periods when people experience severe food insecurity, meaning that they go for entire days without eating due to a lack of money, access to food, or other resources. However, what we saw during this period is that hunger is more complicated than empty bellies. It interconnects issues of poverty, inequality, conflict, climate change, gender discrimination, weak government and health systems, etc., all of which play a role in driving hunger. 

From the discussions arising on matters of the protest, the display and interplay of issues give a reflection of the kind of society that we are living in. A society where we have all failed to look beyond ourselves and our contributions to where we are currently living and choose to shift blame is typical of a Nigerian, who sees nothing wrong with his or her action or inaction but dares to condemn the actions of others. I have lived closer to one of the biggest internally displaced persons, the IDP camp in Maiduguri, and I got the figures of persons living at that camp standing at 38,000 in population. More than 12,000 households and that camp called “Bakassi IDP Camp” in Maiduguri gave me an understanding of the definition of hunger by the United Nations. 

I have traveled far and wide in my work as a reporter. I have visited places affected by Boko Haram conflicts and banditry, especially in the Northeast, Northwest, and Central Nigeria. I have visited a few places in the southeast and south-south parts of the country, and I have been home in the southwest part of the country for the last two decades of my journey in the journalism mines field. I have seen the results of poverty and what our protesters tagged as the lead in the 10-day protests as the days count. In all these, I have learned lessons about the resilience of our people in the face of hunger. That hunger is the issue for this protest was something far from the truth, and still, I cannot comprehend why it has to be about the Tinubu administration. This is not about the hunger protest; it is about a political interest, and this is the wrong move to get the government’s attention. 

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/umth-how-professor-ahidjos-transformation-agenda-impacted-the-information-unit/

Many Nigerians have been brainwashed not to see anything good about the Tinubu administration but hunger and hardship in the land. They have seen nothing in the speech made by the president. They described the speech as empty because, according to them, it did not define what they had expected. Most of them speaking have held government’s offices at certain levels in their careers and have enjoyed government’s scholarship in one way or another. In their own eyes, what they have done or contributed is good enough to position them to criticize the government today. They never see their actions or inaction in the past as contributing to the mass neglect of their duties that informed and brought us to where we are today. 

I have the opportunity to speak with some high-level citizens who share their views and support for the protest. In our discussions, the list of those who supported the protest includes over 30 individuals. Some of them are friends of the president. I believe if they wanted to see the president, they could do so without stress. I do not know why they would stand so far and support or acknowledge the protest when they can easily approach the president and inform or give him advice that can move the nation forward. I could not be convinced, knowing the positions they held in the past, that their voices could not matter at this time and that only by supporting or nodding heads at the protest could they be heard. 

We all know about government: the office, authority, or function of governing. Governing: having control over or ruling over oneself. We all understand governance as the activity of governing. Accordingly, governance is a set of decisions and processes made to reflect social expectations through the management or leadership of the government (by extension, under liberal democratic ideals, the will of ‘the people’ as they rule themselves). There are many issues implicit in this set of relationships whose core revolves around the notion of citizenship, as this defines the body politic over which claims of self-rule apply. 

In the most general sense, we have the difference between a liberal democratic view that the government (state) serves citizens who have a natural claim to services as a benefit and right of citizenship on the one hand and, on the other, the counter-enlightenment view often associated with fascism: that the citizen must serve the state and has no rights other than those granted by the state. In what may be called the American model of citizenship, which, through our system of government practice, is a broadly endowed set of rights representing potential claims for benefits as defined by the state, what constitutes a valid claim by citizens is contested, and then the question of who qualifies to have claims met is debated. This offers us an opportunity to understand a number of pressing issues hotly contested: what is the proper role of government, who should have the right to make claims, how exclusionary or inclusive we should be as a society, how are rights defined and defended, to name but a few. 

It was supposed to be a peaceful protest, as the organizers have told us. But what we saw on the streets on the first of August was nothing short of rebellion. They said it was hijacked, but who hijacked it? In what I saw on the streets, strong young men who do not qualify under the definition of hunger are those on the streets. In what I saw on the streets are young men who are raising another country’s flag other than my country’s flag. What I saw on the streets were the young men who were burning my country’s flag and chanting for military intervention. I ran through the streets and talked to some people within the bracket of hunger as defined by the United Nations; they are the onlookers and those who are praying that this does not escalate to a situation where we could not have a country to call our own because some disgruntled fools are let loose on our streets for political score cards in the name of hunger protest. 

Dr. James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

Nigeria: The Politics of the Hunger Protest and the Wrong Move for the Government’s Attention

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The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting: Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s ₦50,000,000 Support—A Testament to Leadership and Commitment

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4 days ago

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December 6, 2025

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Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu

The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting: Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s ₦50,000,000 Support—A Testament to Leadership and Commitment

By: Dr. James Bwala

The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting, held on December 6, 2025, at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri, Borno State, showcased a moment of unity, gratitude, and inspiration. Under the esteemed leadership of His Royal Highness Alh (Dr.) Shehu Hashimi II Ibn Shehu Umar Al’amin El-kanemi, this gathering brought together an array of individuals who share a common bond through their educational background. However, the focal point of the event was the commendation of one of their own, Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu, whose unwavering commitment to his constituents and remarkable leadership qualities struck a chord with all attendees. 

Represented by Mr. Samaila Ayuba (Kojak), Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s influence reverberated throughout the auditorium during the reunion meeting. As the member representing the Biu, Kwaya-Kusar, Bayo, and Shani federal constituency, he epitomizes what it means to be a servant leader. His distinct approach towards governance, combined with his proactive humanitarian efforts, has set a standard for political representatives. Attendees lauded his initiatives, which range from infrastructural development projects to educational programs, ensuring that the essence of democracy—serving the people—is alive and robust in his leadership style.

Mr. Samaila Ayuba (Kojak)

One cannot understate the significance of these accolades bestowed upon Hon. Betara Aliyu during the reunion. Each narrative shared about his contributions illustrated a profound understanding of the needs of his constituents, encapsulating empathy as a core driver of effective leadership. The alumni’s praise for him serves as a reminder that elected officials must prioritize the welfare of the communities they serve. In an era where political apathy is rampant and disillusionment with public figures prevails, Hon. Betara Aliyu stands as a beacon of hope. He demonstrates that political authority can indeed align with genuine care for the populace’s well-being.

Also, Hon. Betara Aliyu’s gesture of announcing a substantial donation of fifty million naira (₦50,000,000.00) as transportation support for the attendees further exemplifies his dedication. This act transcends mere financial assistance; it displays an extraordinary commitment to inclusivity and participation. By facilitating the attendance of fellow alumni, he not only strengthens bonds among them but also underscores the importance of collective engagement in societal issues. It is essential to recognize that true leadership extends beyond policy-making; it often manifests in the tangible ways leaders empower others to come together and collaborate for common goals.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/the-voice-of-dan-balki-an-attempt-to-derail-the-gains-of-building-a-stronger-north-with-vp-kashim-shettima-as-jagoran-arewa/

In the context of political gatherings like the Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion, the communal prayers and wishes expressed for Hon. Betara Aliyu’s success in his political endeavors are deeply significant. They form a spiritual and moral foundation that fortifies his current initiatives and future aspirations. Such collective support is vital for leaders navigating the complexities of political life. The tribute paid to him at this meeting signifies a communal affirmation of shared values rooted in integrity, compassion, and respect—all pivotal for sustainable governance.

As we reflect on the commendation of Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu, it becomes essential to advocate for a paradigm shift among aspiring leaders who may look towards politics as a means of personal gain rather than community upliftment. Drawing lessons from this event, potential candidates in Nigeria must embrace the ethos exhibited by Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu. They ought to engage with their communities meaningfully, develop sustainable initiatives, and foster relationships built on trust and transparency. It is incumbent upon those seeking to serve the public to inject a sense of purpose into their pursuits, recognizing that their actions directly impact the lives of their constituents.

Indeed, alumni networks such as the Beneshiekh group play a crucial role in propelling social change. They possess the unique capacity to mobilize resources, share knowledge, and create platforms for collaboration among individuals who have walked similar educational paths. The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting should be viewed not only as a celebration of fellowship but also as a catalyst for ongoing dialogues on community issues. Participants should leverage this network to propose initiatives that align with Hon. Betara Aliyu’s vision for development. By working collectively, they can amplify their voices and foster a culture of mutual accountability among both leaders and constituents.

Lastly, it is worth emphasizing that lasting change is not an overnight endeavor. The reunion meeting serves as a reminder that the path to effective leadership involves continuous learning, adaptation, and engagement. To retain the spirit of this gathering, members should consider forming committees focused on specific issues within their constituencies, guiding future leaders to action based on the best practices exemplified by Hon. Betara Aliyu. The key lies in maintaining momentum and harnessing the collective potential of the alumni network, thus establishing a legacy anchored in activism and civic responsibility.

The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting offered more than a chance to reminisce; it provided an opportunity to reaffirm the values and responsibilities of leadership. Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s recognition serves as a catalyst for inspiring countless individuals to commit to public service with integrity and compassion. As communities grapple with various socio-economic challenges, let the words of gratitude and prayers offered during this gathering translate into actionable steps that pave the way for a brighter future. Indeed, alumni and community leaders should collectively hold each other accountable, ensuring that aspirations and actions reflect a genuine commitment to the society we serve.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Maiduguri.

The Beneshiekh Alumni Reunion Meeting: Hon. Muktari Betara Aliyu’s ₦50,000,000 Support—A Testament to Leadership and Commitment

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The Voice of Dan Balki: An Attempt to Derail the Gains of Building a Stronger North with VP Kashim Shettima as “Jagoran Arewa”

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6 days ago

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December 4, 2025

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VP Shettima

The Voice of Dan Balki: An Attempt to Derail the Gains of Building a Stronger North with VP Kashim Shettima as “Jagoran Arewa”

By: Dr. James Bwala

The emergence of influential voices and opposing forces shapes not only the political ideologies in the North but also the trajectories of leadership, particularly now that the North is seeking one true leader under its umbrella to champion the course of the North returning history to the glorious days of its shining. Many voices supporting the One North rise are rallying around Nigeria’s vice president, Kashim Shettina. But opposing forces are marching in their characters and building on rented voices. One such figure is Dan Balki, whose rhetoric and activism against Vice President Kashim Shettima embody a larger struggle for the soul of Northern Nigeria. As Shettima assumes the mantle of “Jagoran Arewa,” or the leader of the North, by his position as Nigeria’s vice president, it becomes paramount to dissect the implications of Dan Balki’s recent opposition and the collective efforts of dissenting factions aiming to undermine Shettima’s God-given position of leadership chosen from amongst hundreds and perhaps thousands who feel equally important for this ambitious position.

Despite the pushback posed by Dan Balki and his allies, Shettima’s vision for a stronger North remains valid and essential for the region’s socio-political and economic advancement. To understand the contentious relationship between Dan Balki and Shettima, we must first delve into the historical context that has plagued Northern Nigeria. The North has faced myriad challenges ranging from economic deprivation, educational underachievement, and security concerns, culminating in a loss of political power and relevance on the national stage. In this atmosphere of disillusionment and tension, Shettima, formerly the Governor of Borno State, emerged as a beacon of hope, propelled by his development initiatives and commitment to addressing the unique challenges facing the North. His policies aimed at fostering unity, peace, and economic revitalization resonate deeply amidst a populace yearning for effective leadership.

However, the recent emergence of vocal opponents like Dan Balki signifies a critical fracture within Northern politics. Dan Balki’s narrative encapsulates a blend of regionalist sentiment and skepticism towards Shettima’s administration by powerful individuals who are not satisfied with the position they currently occupy. Framing Shettima as a pawn of broader national politics, these individuals are using Dan Balki to leverage populist rhetoric to cultivate dissent among constituents, thus sowing seeds of division. His recent arguments often highlight grievances related to perceived neglect of certain local interests or failure to adequately involve grassroots stakeholders in decision-making processes. These tactics are reminiscent of age-old political maneuverings in which leaders are pitted against one another to create distractions from pressing issues.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/general-christopher-g-musa-a-pillar-of-integrity-and-commitment/

The impact of Dan Balki’s voice should not be underestimated. He serves as a reminder of the plurality of opinions in Nigerian politics—a reflection of diverse aspirations and ideologies within the Northern constituency. Yet, while this multiplicity is vital for democracy, it can also hinder progress if left unchecked. Dan Balki’s continued criticisms could lead to a paralysis of governance, where leaders are more preoccupied with countering dissent than implementing crucial reforms. Such a scenario would ultimately serve only to stifle the progress Shettima seeks to achieve.

Counterarguments may posit that Dan Balki’s resistance stems from legitimate grievances that reflect the authentic desires of constituents. To some extent, this claim holds merit. Indeed, Shettima must engage with various stakeholders across the North to solidify his position and capitalize on the victories he has championed. However, it is essential to distinguish constructive criticism from polarized antagonism. True leadership demands an understanding of nuance—a recognition that dissent can serve as both a catalyst for improvement and an obstacle to advancement. For Shettima, navigating this political minefield necessitates a thoughtful approach that embraces dialogue while remaining steadfast in his vision for the North.

A crucial aspect of Shettima’s agenda is his commitment to economic development through infrastructural investment, education, and youth empowerment. These pillars are foundational for fostering a prosperous Northern region capable of competing on both national and global fronts. The initiatives launched during his gubernatorial tenure offer a glimpse into what can be achieved under his leadership. For instance, Shettima’s focus on rebuilding Borno State post-insurgency, including enhancing agricultural outputs and technological advancements, sets a precedent for sustainable growth. Detractors like Dan Balki may diminish these achievements, but the empirical evidence supports Shettima’s vision as one rooted in practicality and necessity.

Indeed, it is crucial to consider the broader implications of Shettima’s role within the national government. As vice president, he occupies a platform that allows for broader advocacy and representation of Northern interests on the national stage. Rather than viewing this as a dilution of regional identity, constituents should recognize the potential for leveraging such a position to attract investments and foster collaborations that align with the North’s unique challenges. Rather than allowing Dan Balki’s divisive rhetoric to distract from this opportunity, it is imperative for Shettima to delineate how his policies can yield tangible benefits for the entire region.

Shettima’s commitment to unity is a cornerstone of his political philosophy. In a region often fractured by tribal, religious, and political divides, embracing a narrative of togetherness becomes increasingly significant. While Dan Balki’s voice echoes sentiments of dissatisfaction, it is vital to counter those sentiments with positive, inclusive narratives that speak to shared goals and aspirations. Campaigns highlighting collaborative projects and inter-ethnic dialogues would demonstrate that Shettima is not merely a politician operating in isolation but rather a leader attuned to the complexities of Northern Nigeria’s social fabric.

A concerted effort towards grassroots mobilization can effectively mitigate the influence of opposition voices. Building a robust network of community engagement initiatives that directly involve citizens in discussions about their needs and expectations can circumvent the narrative of discontent framed by Dan Balki. By amplifying local voices within the decision-making process, Shettima can reinforce a sense of ownership among constituents, thereby reducing the allure of oppositional figures who thrive on creating rifts.

The challenge posed by Dan Balki and other opposing forces underscores the dynamic nature of political discourse in Northern Nigeria. While dissent is a natural element within any democracy, the prioritization of progress over partisanship is essential. As the North charts its path forward, the ability to unite diverse voices behind a collective objective will determine the strength and resilience of the region. Shettima’s position as “Jagoran Arewa” epitomizes an opportunity to rally support around a shared identity, catalyzing a movement towards rejuvenation and prosperity.

The voice of Dan Balki serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in politics, particularly in a region as diverse and historically rich as Northern Nigeria. Nevertheless, beneath the noise of dissent lies an opportunity for growth and transformation. As Vice President Kashim Shettima navigates this political landscape, his focus must remain unwavering—centering on building a stronger, more cohesive North. Through strategic engagement, inclusive dialogue, and an unwavering commitment to the aspirations of the people, Shettima has the potential to rise above opposition and pave the way for a brighter future. In the face of adversity, true leadership is defined not solely by the absence of dissent but by the ability to harness divergent views to forge a path towards unity and progress.

* * James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

The Voice of Dan Balki: An Attempt to Derail the Gains of Building a Stronger North with VP Kashim Shettima as “Jagoran Arewa”

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Politics

PDP Convention: Group backs Gov. Fintiri, Madagali

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1 month ago

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November 5, 2025

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PDP Convention: Group backs Gov. Fintiri, Madagali

Ganye Chiefdom has passed a vote of confidence in the leadership of Gov. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa as Chairman, 2025 PDP National Convention and Alhaji Hamza Madagali, party Chairman Adamawa Chapter ahead of 2027 General Elections.

The Chiefdom comprises Ganye, Tango and Jada Local Government Areas including part of Mayo-Belwa.

Alhaji Kashim Jidda, leader of the delegation stated this when they paid a solidarity visit to the newly elected executive of the party in the state in Yola.

He said, Gov. Fintiri has laid a legacy in the state and assured their loyalty and support for the success of the party from the grassroots up to the national level.

Jidda appealed to Fintiri to reconstruct Ganye-Jada road to ease the suffering of people and to boost the economic activities in the area.

He also urged Fintiri to find a credible person who would succeed him after his two terms in office to sustain the success and progress of the state.

In his remarks, Madagali expressed appreciation for the visit and described it as one of the special visits to the party.

He commended the Chiefdom for supporting the party during the recent by-election in the area.

According to him, with that they have confidence in them and urged them to double their effort to ensure the success of the party to come 2027 General Elections.

“Going by the constitution of the country and that of the party nobody can stop PDP from winning the election in the forthcoming general election”, he said.

PDP Convention: Group backs Gov. Fintiri, Madagali

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