society
From Stop-and-Go to Lawlessness: What Traffic Lights Reveal About Our National Character
From Stop-and-Go to Lawlessness: What Traffic Lights Reveal About Our National Character.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by Sahara Weekly
If we can’t govern ourselves at a junction, how can we claim the right to govern a nation?
Introduction: The Crossroads of Character.
In societies, true leadership is not tested in parliamentary chambers, presidential villas or high offices; it is tested at the junctions of daily life. Something as simple as a traffic light going out reveals the moral fabric of a people, their sense of responsibility and their willingness to respect order without coercion. In South Africa, when a traffic light malfunctions, most drivers instinctively impose a “Stop and Go” system, respecting each other, waiting their turn and preserving order. In that moment, the people themselves become the government.
In Nigeria, however, the same situation often spirals into chaos. Drivers blow horns aggressively, push into intersections, drive against traffic and ignore the principle of fairness. Rather than imposing order, Nigerians wait for external intervention; whether LASTMA, police or soldiers. Even when officials are present, disorder often persists. This difference is not merely about traffic management; it is about values, about the very essence of governance and nationhood.
The Traffic Light as a Mirror of Society.
Political scientist Francis Fukuyama, in his seminal work Trust: The Social Virtues and the Creation of Prosperity, argued that “a nation’s prosperity and strength depend less on natural resources and more on the level of trust that exists between its citizens.” The traffic light analogy demonstrates this truth. In South Africa, citizens show a willingness to trust one another to obey unwritten rules in moments of crisis. In Nigeria, mistrust, impatience and self-interest dominate, leading to gridlock and anarchy.
A broken traffic light is, therefore, not just a technical failure; it is a mirror reflecting the broken social contract between Nigerian citizens.
The Psychology of Order and Disorder.
Sociologists often stress that law and order are not enforced merely by government agencies but by social consciousness. Émile Durkheim, the father of sociology, warned that when social norms break down, “ANOMIE” sets in – chaos rooted in the erosion of shared moral values. Nigeria exemplifies this anomie.
Why do Nigerians behave differently from South Africans in this same situation? The answer lies in collective psychology. Nigerians, conditioned by decades of government failure and corrupt leadership, no longer see themselves as responsible stakeholders in governance. Instead, they wait for authority, and when authority appears, it is often disrespected or undermined. As Prof. Wole Soyinka once declared, “The man dies in all who keep silent in the face of tyranny.” But perhaps even more deadly is the death of civic responsibility in everyday life.
Leadership Beyond Aso Rock.
We often criticize our presidents, governors and ministers, blaming them for every dysfunction. Indeed, Nigeria’s leadership has been historically flawed; corruption, impunity and incompetence are well-documented. Yet, as Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” If ordinary Nigerians cannot self-regulate at a junction, can we genuinely claim moral authority to demand better governance from above?
True leadership begins at the grassroots. The man who cuts corners in traffic is the same man who would cut corners in public office. The driver who ignores rules in Oshodi today is no different from the politician who manipulates electoral laws tomorrow.
The South African Contrast.
It is important to highlight that South Africa is not without its problems – corruption, unemployment and xenophobia remain pressing issues. Yet, in matters of traffic order, they exhibit a higher civic consciousness. This culture is not accidental. South Africans have been repeatedly taught through campaigns, law enforcement and civic education that responsibility is shared.
According to a 2023 report by the South African Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), nearly 60% of road users polled believe that obeying traffic rules is part of “NATIONAL PRIDE.” Compare that to Nigeria, where traffic violations are normalized and bribery at checkpoints undermines enforcement.
This contrast demonstrates that governance is not just about leaders; it is about collective responsibility. As Nelson Mandela said, “Freedom is not just to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
The Culture of Impunity in Nigeria.
Nigeria suffers from what I call the “SYNDROME of SELECTIVE OBEDIENCE.” We obey rules when forced, when soldiers wield whips or when police hold rifles. When there is no authority figure, lawlessness thrives. This culture is rooted in impunity.
Transparency International consistently ranks Nigeria among the most corrupt nations globally. The 2024 Corruption Perception Index placed Nigeria at 145th out of 180 countries, reflecting not only corrupt leadership but also a society that tolerates shortcuts. A traffic light breakdown is the smallest arena where this impunity manifests; but the consequences echo into larger spheres of governance, economy and politics.
Civic Responsibility: The Missing Link.
The problem of Nigeria is not only leadership failure but also citizen failure. As Chinua Achebe observed in The Trouble with Nigeria: “The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership.” Yet, leadership is not limited to political elites. Achebe himself admitted that ordinary Nigerians tolerate mediocrity, excuse bad behavior and perpetuate corruption at the micro level.
Civic responsibility (understood as the duty of citizens to contribute to societal order) remains alien to many Nigerians. Until we embrace self-discipline, our democracy will remain weak, our governance chaotic and our future uncertain.
Lessons for Nigeria.
Education in Civic Culture: Nigerian schools should emphasize civic education beyond theory. Students must be trained in practical responsibility – queuing, obeying signals, respecting order.
Public Campaigns for Shared Order: Just as South Africa runs road safety campaigns, Nigeria needs a nationwide consciousness movement. Slogans like “Obey the Light, Save a Life” should flood the media.
Accountability in Small Things: Nigerians must realize that corruption is not only about stolen billions; it is about ignoring rules, driving against traffic or bribing an officer.
Collective Responsibility: Citizens must accept that governance begins with them. Government cannot regulate every junction; society must self-regulate.
Final Analysis: Governance Begins at the Junction.
The broken traffic light has exposed our broken values. In South Africa, people rise above dysfunction and self-govern. In Nigeria, we descend into chaos, waiting for LASTMA, police, or “big men” to impose order. This attitude mirrors our national tragedy: a people waiting for messiahs instead of embodying responsibility.
Until Nigerians learn to govern themselves in the smallest of matters (whether at a traffic light, in a queue, or at a public office) no president, no governor, no reform will save us.
As the African proverb says, “The ruin of a nation begins in the homes of its people.” Our ruin is visible every time a traffic light goes out and chaos ensues. If we cannot lead ourselves at an intersection, how can we expect to lead a nation?
GEN CHRISTOPHER GWABIN MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE COMMENDS STATE-FEDERAL COLLABORATION IN ZAMFARA
The Gen Christopher Gwabin Musa Support Initiative (GCGMSI) has commended the Zamfara State Government for its decisive contribution to security operations through the donation of newly acquired armoured personnel carriers (APCs), surveillance drones, and other critical operational equipment to troops and security agencies in the state.
This commendation was contained in a statement signed by the Convener of the GCGMSI, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, and made available to the press.
The equipment was formally commissioned on Wednesday, February 18, by the Grand Patron of the GCGMSI and Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR (rtd.), in a ceremony at the Government House, Gusau. The event was attended by senior military officers, heads of security agencies, and top officials of the Zamfara State Government.
The GCGMSI, in its statement, hailed the donation as a “transformative and timely intervention” that aligns perfectly with its core objective of advocating for and supporting tangible measures that enhance the operational capacity and welfare of Nigeria’s security forces. The Initiative praised Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration for moving beyond rhetoric to actionable, material support, describing the move as a “blueprint for state-level collaboration in national security.”
“The provision of these assets by the Zamfara State Government is a testament to visionary leadership and a profound commitment to the peace and stability of its people,” the GCGMSI statement read. “It represents the exact kind of synergistic partnership between state and federal authorities that the GCGMSI champions. This initiative will significantly close operational gaps, boost the confidence of our gallant troops, and send a strong message to criminal elements.”
Speaking at the commissioning, General Musa emphasized that sustained collaboration is indispensable in confronting the nation’s evolving security challenges. He specifically commended Governor Lawal for his proactive support.
“Governor Dauda Lawal has demonstrated exemplary leadership and an unwavering dedication to the security of Zamfara State,” the Defence Minister stated. “The provision of these armoured vehicles, surveillance drones, and other operational equipment will undoubtedly boost the morale and operational effectiveness of our troops and other security agencies on the ground. This is a commendable effort that should be emulated by others.”
The newly commissioned assets, which include multiple APCs and advanced surveillance drones, are expected to dramatically enhance the mobility, protection, intelligence-gathering, and rapid response capabilities of security forces, particularly in the state’s remote and difficult terrains where anti-banditry operations are ongoing.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal reiterated his administration’s steadfast commitment to being a reliable partner in the security architecture. He urged security agencies to deploy the new resources responsibly and effectively to safeguard lives and property.
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Defence, reaffirmed its commitment to continuing and deepening such partnerships with state governments across the nation to strengthen coordination and resource allocation in the collective fight against insecurity.
The GCGMSI concluded its statement by urging other state governments to take a cue from Zamfara’s “bold and pragmatic” approach, affirming that such concrete support is vital for achieving lasting peace and security across Nigeria.
society
Governor Dauda Lawal Commissions 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers, Aerial Surveillance Drones to Combat Insecurity
Governor Dauda Lawal Commissions 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers, Aerial Surveillance Drones to Combat Insecurity
In a major boost to the fight against banditry and insecurity in Zamfara State and the North-West Zone, Zamfara State Governor, His Excellency, Dr Dauda Lawal, on Wednesday commissioned 25 new Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and sets of surveillance drones for the military and other security agencies operating in the state.
The event, which took place in Gusau, was part of the state government’s ongoing effort to provide structured logistical support to frontline security forces and combat insurgency, banditry, and protect lives and properties. Speaking at the commissioning and handover, Governor Lawal emphasised that the new assets are intended to enhance troop protection during high-risk deployments and improve rapid response capabilities in remote communities, ensuring tactical battle and overhead surveillance for victory.
“We have provided over 600 specialised motorcycles, 150 Hilux vehicles, and 20 Buffalo vehicles to our security forces. These 25 highly sophisticated APCs being commissioned today are therefore part of a broader reform to improve response to security threats. The APC’s significantly improves troop protection during deployments into high-risk areas. They reduce vulnerability during patrols, support convoy security along major routes, and strengthen rapid response capability when distress calls arise from remote communities.” the Governor stated.
Governor Lawal explained that the security challenges of recent years had disrupted farming, limited trade, and undermined public confidence across the state. He noted that his administration’s “Rescue Mission” agenda has focused on moving from fragmented responses to structured reforms, including the establishment of a Zamfara State Security Trust Fund and the operationalisation of Community Protection Guards to improve grassroots intelligence.
The Governor specifically highlighted the importance of integrating modern technology into security operations. He noted that the newly acquired drones would expand aerial surveillance, improve situational awareness, and support better coordination between command centres and troops in the field.
“Real-time information strengthens decision-making and reduces operational blind spots,” he added.
Governor Lawal however acknowledged the critical role of the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that recent federal budgets have allocated over three trillion naira to defence, a commitment he said strengthens subnational stabilisation efforts.
He urged the military commanders and personnel receiving the equipment to ensure disciplined maintenance and intelligence-guided deployment. “Enhancing your safety enhances the safety of our communities,” he told the troops.
Governor Lawal also told the people of Zamfara that; his administration remains resolute in restoring enduring security and peace across every Local Government Area. “We will sustain preventive measures, strengthen patrol architecture in rural corridors, deepen inter-state intelligence collaboration across the North-West, and maintain fiscal prudence in security expenditure. Stabilisation will continue through structured planning, lawful enforcement, and institutional reform.”
The Governor also linked the security investment to economic recovery, stressing that stability in rural areas is essential for agricultural productivity, market activity, and food security.
The event was attended by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), who formally commissioned the assets for operational service. Governor Lawal reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to sustain preventive measures and inter-state security collaboration until lasting peace is restored across all Local Government Areas in Zamfara.
Ramadan, Lent: Ajadi Urges Religious Harmony, Prayers for Nigeria
A leading governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has extended warm felicitations to Muslims and Christians on the simultaneous commencement of Ramadan and Lent.
Ramadan, the Islamic holy month marked by 30 days of fasting and spiritual devotion, and Lent, the 40-day Christian season of fasting and reflection, began on the same day — a development Ajadi described as symbolic and spiritually significant.
In a statement personally signed by him on Wednesday, Ajadi congratulated adherents of both faiths and called for sustained religious tolerance, unity, and peaceful coexistence across the state and the country at large.
He described the coincidence in the commencement dates as a reminder of shared values between Islam and Christianity.
“The simultaneous commencement of Ramadan and Lent is a divine reminder that we all worship the same Almighty God. It is a call for unity, love, and mutual understanding among us,” he stated.
Ajadi urged Muslims and Christians to use the sacred periods of fasting and spiritual purification to pray fervently for Nigeria, especially in view of the nation’s economic and security challenges.
“Our country is facing significant hardship. The economic difficulties and prevailing insecurity require sincere prayers. This season of spiritual purification offers us a unique opportunity to seek God’s intervention for our nation,” he said.
He further emphasized that both Islam and Christianity preach peace, tolerance, and respect for constituted authority, urging citizens to embody these teachings in their daily lives.
“Let us live peacefully, tolerate one another, and continue to pray for those in leadership. Our faiths teach us to respect and uphold our leaders in prayer,” Ajadi added.
The PDP chieftain concluded by wishing Muslims a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan and Christians a reflective and enriching Lenten season, encouraging both communities to embrace love, sacrifice, and harmonious living throughout the sacred periods.
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