Table of Contents
Reflections on Authority and Defiance in Contemporary Nigeria
Lessons from School Days: The Weight of Obedience
During my early years at Ibadan Boys’ High School, Oke Bola, one teacher stood out not only for his vocal presence but also for his formidable discipline. Mr. Akinbode wielded his cane with unmatched precision, ensuring that any breach of rules was met with swift punishment. His assembly sessions were dreaded by many, as his commanding voice and distinctive accent reinforced his authority. Phrases like “order is order, whether genuine or counterfeit” and “we are not here to sue but to command” echoed through the halls, instilling a strict sense of obedience.
However, it was through a personal experience that I began to question blind compliance. One afternoon, I found my friend Tokunbo Sanyaolu distressed in an almost empty classroom. He confided that some senior students were attempting to extort him and urged me to inform the Senior Prefect, Kunle Ogundipe. Before I could act, the school’s football captain, a physically imposing senior, confronted us. Despite his initial harsh orders, the situation deescalated, and we were confined together for hours. Later, I learned the money demanded belonged to Lekan, a senior student, who humbly paid the extortionists himself. This episode revealed how obeying orders without question can entangle innocent individuals in complex power dynamics.
2025: A Year Marked by Defiance and Contested Authority
Much like my school experience, Nigeria’s 2025 was characterized by clashes over authority and the refusal to yield. A notable incident involved the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Chief Nyesome Wike, who was denied access to a property by a Nigerian Navy officer during an inspection. While some viewed the officer’s stance as dutiful adherence to orders, others argued he was enforcing illegitimate commands. This confrontation sparked widespread debate about military dominance over civilians and the prevalence of unlawful directives.
The viral footage of the encounter highlighted a broader societal awareness: even ordinary Nigerians working alongside influential figures recognize their boundaries. One of the Minister’s security aides, speaking in Hausa, advised soldiers to avoid entanglement in disputes among powerful individuals, emphasizing that such conflicts could be resolved without involving subordinates. This pragmatic approach underscored the risks faced by those who blindly follow orders without discretion.
Defiance as a National Mood: From Slogans to Realities
Nigeria entered 2025 still echoing the unofficial 2024 motto, “No gree for anybody” (No agreement with anyone), which morphed into “Dey for who dey for you” (Support those who support you). This spirit of resistance permeated various facets of national life, from politics to security challenges.
Throughout the year, terrorist groups intensified their attacks, resulting in tragic losses. Nigerian Armed Forces personnel, following orders, sacrificed their lives defending the nation’s sovereignty. The severity of these attacks led the United States to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to alleged persecution of Christians. For instance, January witnessed deadly assaults in Borno State’s Damboa and Dumba, and Bwari, claiming dozens of lives. Later, a harrowing attack on worshippers in Eruku Ekiti, Kwara State, was broadcast live, amplifying national anguish. In response, coordinated U.S. strikes targeted terrorist strongholds in the North West during Christmas Eve, reflecting international concern.
Political Turmoil and Governance Challenges
March saw the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State, suspending democratic governance amid a protracted feud between Governor Sim Fubara and his predecessor. This political deadlock paralyzed the state for months, exemplifying the broader trend of defiance and power struggles.
In a striking display of nonconformity, renowned Fuji musician and Ijebuland’s Olori Omoba, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, famously obstructed a taxiing aircraft, an act that shocked many. Another airport incident involved airline staff forcibly removing a passenger, exposing tensions between authority and individual rights.
Economic Pressures and Public Response
The government’s decision to double passport fees sparked controversy, with critics suggesting it was a tactic to curb emigration. Despite the hike, many Nigerians continue to seek opportunities abroad, undeterred by economic hardships. This phenomenon, colloquially known as ‘japa,’ reflects widespread dissatisfaction with domestic conditions.
Internal Party Conflicts and Leadership Struggles
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) remained embroiled in turmoil throughout 2025. Following a contentious convention in Ibadan that saw the expulsion of key figures, the National Executive Committee meeting nearly descended into physical altercations, captured on video and widely circulated. Governor Seyi Makinde, the party’s sole remaining governor, openly criticized Chief Nyesome Wike for allegedly controlling the party on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In retaliation, former Governor Ayo Fayose accused Makinde of misappropriating funds intended for victims of a devastating explosion in Ibadan in early 2024.
Traditional Leadership and Cultural Shifts in Ijebuland
The passing of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, marked a significant cultural moment, as he was interred following Islamic rites, diverging from previous customs. The succession race has been fraught with controversy, particularly with King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal’s bid for the throne. His own Fusengbuwa Ruling Family publicly rejected his claim, and some supporters referenced his song lyrics about an Imam aspiring to become Seriki, highlighting the complexities of his ambition.
Security Setbacks and National Trials
The capture and execution of Brigadier General Musa Uba by insurgents provoked national outrage. Reports suggested that intercepted communications with military leadership may have compromised his safety. Despite escaping an initial ambush, he was ultimately seized and executed, with the harrowing video circulated online.
The treason trial of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu concluded with a life sentence, a culmination of prolonged defiance. Meanwhile, a controversial presidential pardon for Maryam Sanda, convicted of spousal murder, was swiftly revoked following public backlash, illustrating the government’s sensitivity to public opinion.
Despite internal challenges, Nigeria played a pivotal role in thwarting a coup attempt in neighboring Benin Republic, reaffirming its regional influence. However, many citizens questioned the wisdom of intervening abroad while domestic issues remain unresolved.
Fiscal Concerns and Public Anxiety
The introduction of a new Tax Reform has become a hot topic nationwide, with widespread apprehension not only about increased tax burdens but also skepticism regarding the management of collected revenues. As Nigeria approaches 2026, the looming budget deficit of approximately 23.85 trillion Naira intensifies concerns about economic stability.
In this climate, the once-dismissed lyrics of Taye Currency, voiced during the Olubadan’s coronation, resonate anew. Many Yoruba-speaking Nigerians now echo the sentiment “were la fi nwo were” (madness is cured with madness), reflecting a collective sense of coping with ongoing national challenges through resilience and, at times, irony.
Article contributed by Wole Adejumo from Ibadan
