When Bad Citizens Demand Good Governance

 

By Abioye Tosin Lawrence

The public reaction that followed the Minister of Interior’s surprise visit to an immigration office did more than highlight institutional delays; it also revealed a deeper and more troubling issue, the mindset of many citizens.

A brief scan through social media comment sections tells a disturbing story. Rather than thoughtful reflection, many users demanded instant perfection from government, as though governance functions by magic rather than through systems, discipline, and collective responsibility. Ironically, the tone and substance of these comments mirror some of the very problems they seek to condemn.

Too often, poor citizenship and loud criticism coexist.

Some commenters dismissed the visit as mere media drama, while others casually excused inefficiency with the phrase “this is Nigeria” ,a line that has gradually become a justification for disorder. Such attitudes create an environment where inefficiency is tolerated, reforms are resisted, and accountability is treated as optional.

What the Honourable Minister observed is not unique to one institution. Similar unannounced visits across public institutions, including tertiary establishments, would likely expose recurring systemic weaknesses. Yet, in public discourse and online spaces, frustration is frequently directed solely at government, with little introspection about individual and collective responsibility.

The contradiction is striking.

Many who express outrage online would, given the opportunity, exploit loopholes within the same systems they criticize. Still, expectations remain high for flawless governance, immediate transformation, and national progress, often without equal emphasis on personal integrity, civic duty, or ethical conduct.

Good governance does not emerge in isolation. It is nurtured by a society that respects processes, values fairness, and understands that citizenship comes with obligations as well as rights. A nation cannot advance sustainably when accountability is demanded only from leaders and not from citizens.

The deeper lesson from the Minister’s visit extends beyond delays at a public office. It reflects a country where supervision has become necessary because trust has been repeatedly tested and, in many cases, eroded.

Until citizens move beyond demanding miracles and begin embracing discipline, responsibility, and ethical conduct, no reform, regardless of intent will be sufficient.

The Minister’s action reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s stated commitment to institutional reform, accountability, and more efficient public service delivery.