“Politics Without Principles: CBN Onwuasoanya Ezendigbo Says System Failing the People”

 Speaking to OrionTimes, presidential aspirant in the last general elections, Onwuasoanya Ezendigbo, who is also the founder of Better Nigeria for Better People, delivered a scathing critique of Nigeria’s political structure, describing it as a system driven by money rather than principles or public service.

According to Ezendigbo, the current political class has failed to uphold moral standards and does not genuinely represent the interests of the people. He stressed that governance in Nigeria has strayed far from its core purpose, leaving citizens to grapple with poor infrastructure, weak institutions, and declining social services.

He pointed to the struggles faced by students in rural communities, particularly during examination periods like the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). “In the rainy season, many students cannot even access their exam centres due to bad roads,” he said, noting that such challenges reflect deeper systemic neglect.

Ezendigbo lamented the state of public services, citing poor sanitation, rising pollution, and inadequate healthcare facilities. He argued that funds often wasted on political activities and unnecessary expenditures could instead be redirected to critical sectors like education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Referencing campaign promises often made by leaders, he criticized what he described as a lack of accountability among both politicians and voters. “When leaders make commitments, such as improving electricity, those promises should be based on principle. But many Nigerians are more focused on immediate financial gain than long-term development,” he stated.

He further alleged that politicians operate in coordinated alliances that prioritize personal gain over national interest, while a significant portion of the electorate lacks the civic education needed to demand accountability. According to him, this disconnect has allowed poor governance to persist for decades without meaningful resistance.

Ezendigbo also raised concerns about Nigeria’s democratic process, warning of a gradual drift toward a one-party dominance. He questioned the rationale behind large financial allocations for elections and legal disputes, especially when key public institutions, such as courts, schools, and law enforcement agencies remain underfunded and poorly equipped.

“Why spend heavily on elections and litigation when our courts have leaking roofs, and our police lack basic tools?” he asked. He advocated for a redirection of national resources toward agriculture, road construction, and other development-focused initiatives that would have a direct impact on citizens’ lives.

Positioning himself as a reform-driven leader, Ezendigbo concluded by emphasizing his commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s education system. He noted that meaningful national progress must begin with informed citizens and a government willing to prioritize long-term development over short-term political gains.