By MIKE-NIFTY A.A.

In the realm of social justice, activism has long been a powerful tool for driving change and promoting equality. However, in Nigeria, a disturbing trend has emerged, where the pursuit of social justice has been hijacked by individuals and groups seeking personal gain. This phenomenon is exacerbated by the pervasive poverty that afflicts millions of Nigerians, creating a toxic dynamic that undermines the very fabric of social justice movements.

One of the primary ways in which activism is being exploited in Nigeria is through the manipulation of public sentiment. Unscrupulous individuals and groups have learned to leverage the emotions of well-meaning Nigerians, using sensationalist rhetoric and exaggerated claims to garner support for their own selfish agendas.

Whereby after a movement is propounded for a protest to follow suit, the bad eggs betrays the majority behind to collect brown envelopes from the government and most relocates to foreign country to start afresh and dent the hope of the common man that hope for change through the act of activism.

This tactic is particularly effective in a country where poverty and inequality have created widespread frustration and disillusionment.

Furthermore, the exploitation of activism in Nigeria is often facilitated by the lack of transparency and accountability within social justice movements. With limited oversight and regulation, it is easy for individuals and groups to masquerade as champions of social justice while secretly pursuing their own interests. This lack of accountability also enables the embezzlement of funds and resources intended for social justice causes, further perpetuating the cycle of exploitation.

The intersection of poverty and activism in Nigeria is a complex and multifaceted issue. On one hand, poverty can be a powerful motivator for activism, as individuals and communities seek to address the systemic inequalities and injustices that perpetuate their economic hardship. On the other hand, poverty can also be a significant barrier to activism, as individuals and communities struggle to access the resources and support necessary to effectively advocate for change.

As we explore the ways in which poverty and self-interest are hijacking social justice in Nigeria, it is essential to acknowledge the very real challenges and obstacles that activists face in this context. From limited funding and resources to harassment and intimidation by state and non-state actors, activists in Nigeria must navigate a treacherous landscape to effect change.

Despite these challenges, there are still many Nigerians who are committed to genuine social justice activism. These individuals and groups are working tirelessly to address the root causes of poverty and inequality, from advocating for policy reforms to providing vital support services to marginalized communities.

However, their efforts are often overshadowed by the high-profile antics of self-interested activists and the sensationalist media coverage that amplifies their messages. This creates a distorted narrative that undermines the credibility of genuine social justice movements and reinforces the notion that activism is primarily a vehicle for personal gain.

To reclaim the integrity of social justice activism in Nigeria, it is essential to promote transparency, accountability, and inclusivity within movements. This can involve implementing robust governance structures, ensuring diverse representation and participation, and fostering collaborative relationships between different stakeholders.

Ultimately, the struggle for social justice in Nigeria requires a fundamental transformation of the existing power dynamics and structures that perpetuate poverty and inequality. This will necessitate a sustained and collective effort from Nigerians across all sectors and backgrounds.

As Nigerians, it is essential to recognize that the exploitation of activism is not only a betrayal of the trust and goodwill of the Nigerian people but also a hindrance to the realization of genuine social justice. The perpetuation of this exploitative dynamic undermines the credibility of social justice movements, reinforces the status quo of inequality and oppression, and perpetuates the suffering of marginalized communities.

Moreover, the intersection of poverty and activism in Nigeria highlights the need for a more nuanced and multifaceted approach to addressing social justice issues. Rather than relying solely on superficial solutions or quick fixes, activists and stakeholders must engage in a more profound and sustained effort to address the root causes of poverty and inequality.

This necessitates a willingness to confront and challenge the existing power structures and systems that perpetuate inequality and oppression. It also requires a commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusivity within social justice movements, ensuring that the voices and perspectives of marginalized communities are amplified and prioritized.

Ultimately, the transformation of the social justice landscape in Nigeria will require a collective effort from individuals, groups, and institutions across all sectors and backgrounds. It will necessitate a willingness to challenge the status quo, confront uncomfortable truths, and engage in difficult conversations.

However, if Nigerians can come together to reclaim the integrity of social justice activism, there is hope for a brighter future. A future where activism is a genuine force for change, rather than a vehicle for personal gain. A future where the voices and perspectives of marginalized communities are amplified and prioritized. A future where social justice is not merely a rhetoric, but a reality.

As the very dark man’s effort to try and do it better with evidences, and if other viable and truthful Nigerian youths with integrity can join in the efforts, probably the change we all seek will come to light in Nigeria. The clarion call to reclaim the integrity of social justice activism in Nigeria is a summons to collective action, a call to confront the challenges of the present, and a beacon of hope for a brighter future.

In conclusion, the exploitation of activism in Nigeria is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive and sustained response. By promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusivity within social justice movements, and by confronting the root causes of poverty and inequality, Nigerians can reclaim the integrity of activism and create a brighter future for all.

•Mike-Nifty A.A is a positive enthusiast and public affairs analyst, reach him via nifty.mics@yahoo.com for more inclusivity and participation for the uplifting of our great nation! Nigeria.