*Decries Corruption, Calls For Issue-Based Politics
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Prominent Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Jibrin Samuel Okutepa, has issued a stern critique of Nigeria’s current political landscape, warning that “absurdities of a very worrisome degree” are unfolding as the nation approaches the 2027 general elections.
In a candid statement released on Sunday, Okutepa decried the growing influence of discredited politicians and urged Nigerians to prioritize character and anti-corruption credentials over party loyalty.
Okutepa, known for his consistent advocacy for good governance and the rule of law, emphasized that his comments stem from a commitment to truth rather than partisanship.
“When I write on any issue, I do not do so to impress anybody or seek favour from anyone in power, nor to bring those in positions down, but to speak the truth about what represents the reality of the Nigerian situation,” he stated.
Highlighting the economic hardships plaguing the country, the legal luminary attributed the nation’s woes not to a lack of resources but to entrenched corruption.
“There can be no debate that things are tough for most Nigerians who work honestly to survive the harsh economy — not because there are no resources for the good of all, but because those who have access to these resources have cornered them for themselves,” Okutepa remarked.
He expressed concern over how political elites suppress dissent, often branding critics as opposition-sponsored saboteurs. Okutepa described himself as an apostle of good governance, committed to eradicating corruption and upholding judicial independence. However, he accused some of weaponizing the rule of law to shield corrupt officials, creating “anxious moments” for those genuinely fighting graft.
The SAN clarified that his critique was not directed at any individual but at systemic failure.
“I have nothing personal against anyone in power or against any Nigerian politician. But I have everything against the manner in which most of these politicians and their cronies squandered opportunities to deliver good governance,” he said, lamenting that true democracy and effective governance remain elusive in Nigeria despite lofty rhetoric.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Okutepa said he would vote for individuals rather than parties, based on their track record and commitment to reforms.
“In the forthcoming election, I will not vote for parties; I will vote for candidates of parties that show a clear understanding of the issues afflicting us as a nation,” he explained.
His criteria, he noted, include credible anti-corruption strategies, respect for the judiciary, infrastructural development, educational reform, and personal integrity.
“I don’t think I have been persuaded enough to see the difference between Nigerian political parties. But I can see the difference between candidates in the various political parties,” Okutepa observed, urging Nigerians to focus on character rather than party labels.
He rejected the notion that any political party is inherently saintly or demonic, asserting that all are populated by Nigerians of varying moral standards.
Okutepa also condemned the growing trend of political endorsements used to evade accountability.
“The current adoptions here and there as bargaining tools to be shielded from criminal prosecutions for looting our treasuries will not work,” he warned.
Framing the 2027 elections as a contest between “those who have ruined Nigeria” and “Nigerians who are tired of continued ruin,” Okutepa reaffirmed his stance as “an apostle of truth” not a prophet of doom.
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