As frustration simmers across Nigeria over economic hardship, one figure continues to bear the brunt of national discontent—President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. But amidst the blame game, a critical fact is often lost: Nigeria operates a federal system, where governors wield significant power over local development. So, why does public anger rarely target them?
A Federation Misunderstood
Nigeria’s Constitution divides power among three tiers—federal, state, and local. While the Federal Government shapes macroeconomic and national policy, state governors are responsible for education, agriculture, healthcare, water supply, and internal infrastructure—the very services that impact daily life.
Despite receiving over N4.3 trillion in federal allocations in 2024 (FAAC, 2024) and generating N1.9 trillion in IGR, many states continue to underperform. Yet, it is the President who is publicly held accountable, revealing a deep disconnect between perception and reality.
“Governors must match President Tinubu’s urgency,” said Dr. G. Fraser, MFR, governance strategist. “But when 85% of Nigerians do not fully grasp the tiers of governance, the President becomes the scapegoat for every pothole and market price. We must govern differently—and communicate smarter.”
Comparison: How Other Countries Hold Leaders Accountable
India—another large, multi-ethnic democracy—faced a similar problem. After decades of federal over-centralization, India devolved real authority to state chief ministers. Public awareness campaigns educated citizens on who to hold accountable for which services. Today, local elections in India are highly competitive and issue-driven.
Brazil, another federal democracy with high inequality and urban sprawl, introduced civic education in local media and embedded governance literacy in school curriculums. As a result, mayors and governors now face regular public scrutiny and must deliver on basic services or risk electoral defeat.
South Africa uses community radio and civic forums to explain government responsibilities in local languages—making public engagement more inclusive and driving accountability at all levels.
Nigeria can learn from these models.
Minimum Wage Success—Now What?
To his credit, President Tinubu ensured the timely release of funds to enable all 36 states to implement the new minimum wage. While some States have responded proactively, others have remained passive or politicized the opportunity. Yet, none face the same level of public pressure the President does.
“You cannot have a functioning federal democracy when only the President is visible. Where are the governors? What are they doing with the allocations?” Dr. Fraser asked. “People will only stop blaming Abuja when they start holding their State Houses and LGAs accountable.”
Short-Term Solutions to Address Governance Illiteracy
1. Radio and Community-Based Civic Education: Launch weekly programs on state and local responsibilities in Pidgin and local languages.
2. Governance Roadshows: Use NYSC members and traditional leaders to host town hall briefings in markets, churches, and mosques.
3. Mobile Awareness Campaigns: Use social media, buses, SMS blasts, and megaphones to spread simple messages like:
“Your Governor fixes your roads.”
“Your Local Chairman cleans your drain.”
4. Interactive Apps and WhatsApp Bots: Use AI and voice-based tools for low-literacy citizens to understand civic responsibilities.
5. School-Based Democracy Clubs: Encourage secondary school participation in governance simulations, debates, and community audits.
Time for Governors to Complement, Not Complain
Governors must stop waiting for federal bailouts and start driving development within their constitutional mandates. Nigeria’s economic recovery requires cooperative governance, not blame games.
As Dr. Fraser aptly put it:
“President Tinubu is not your Governor. And Nigeria is not a one-man government. When Governors act, progress follows.”
Conclusion: A Shared Burden for a Renewed Hope
Blaming the President alone for every challenge in Nigeria is neither fair nor productive. Until all three tiers of government are held accountable—especially State Governors—true democracy will remain elusive. The need for public awareness, federal realism, and local leadership has never been more urgent.
It’s time Nigerians demand performance from all their leaders, not just the one at the top.
Dr. G. A. Fraser. MFR
The National Patriots.
Reactions to Article. For comments, email: editor.headlinenews@gmail.com.
“Why Blame Tinubu? Governors Must Share the Burden of Governance” Who will make the people understand this in this country with 85% illiterates? Only God will save Nigeria. It’s a challenge to govern such people as they can be used by detractors and unpatriotic elements to cause havoc due to their illiteracy. – Spiritual Leader.
“Not Just Abuja: Holding Governors Accountable in a True Federal System” a very impressive article worth reading. Headlinenews.news is really making an effort with unbiased objective reportage. Well done. These suggestions are worth considering. – Former President.
“President, Not Governor: Understanding Nigeria’s Governance Structure”
The NOA needs to wake up and create awareness. This report is quite informative. Fraser has put forward good suggestions. I hope they will be put to use. – -Distinguished Senator.
“Governors, Wake Up: Tinubu Has Done His Part—Now Do Yours” The truth is bitter. Governors need to sit up now. Party is over! – Former Governor.
“Beyond the Blame: Fixing Nigeria’s Governance Illiteracy and Leadership Disconnect”- National Patriots.
“Who Should Nigerians Really Blame? Governance 101 in a Failing Federation”. It’s time to call a spade a spade if we will move forward. Nigerians need to understand how governance works. Governors must be held accountable. – Elder Statesman.
“Shared Power, Shared Responsibility: Why Tinubu Alone Isn’t the Problem” – Quite True. I like this report. Good one. – Prof. Adeyemi.
