Senator Shehu Sani's Provocative Inquiry on X: A Deeper Look into Regional Dynamics in Nigerian Protests

Protesters & Sen. Shehu Sani

In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Senator Shehu Sani posed a series of thought-provoking questions that have stirred significant debate across Nigeria. These questions delve into the regional dynamics and motivations behind political protests in the country, raising critical points about the varied responses of different geopolitical zones to the nation's leaders.

Senator Sani's questions were as follows:

1. Why did the South East refuse to protest when many southeasterners were supporting the protest?

2. Why did the Northerners refuse to protest against Yar’adua and Buhari and they protested against GEJ and BAT?

3. Why did the South Westerners always protest against all the Presidents?

These inquiries, while seemingly simple, open up a complex dialogue about the underlying factors that influence protest movements in Nigeria.

Question 1: The South East and Protest Dynamics

"Why did the South East refuse to protest when many southeasterners were supporting the protest?"

This question points to a notable paradox in the political behavior of the South East. Despite significant support for protests among individuals from this region, collective action appears to be limited. Several factors could explain this phenomenon:

- Historical Grievances: The South East has a unique historical context, particularly with the Biafran War and its aftermath. This history may contribute to a more cautious approach to national protests, reflecting deep-seated grievances and a desire for self-preservation.

- Leadership and Coordination: Effective protest movements often require strong leadership and coordination. The absence of unified leadership in the South East could hinder the ability to mobilize large-scale protests.

- Repression and Fear: The fear of government crackdowns and repression may also play a role. The memory of past violence and suppression can deter active participation in protests.

Question 2: Northern Nigeria's Selective Protests

"Why did the Northerners refuse to protest against Yar’adua and Buhari and they protested against GEJ and BAT?"

This question highlights the selective nature of protests in Northern Nigeria, where protests seem more frequent against certain leaders compared to others. To understand this, we need to consider several factors:

- Ethno-Religious Loyalty: Northern Nigeria has shown a tendency to support leaders who share similar ethnic and religious backgrounds. Both Yar’adua and Buhari are from the North, which might explain the reluctance to protest against them.

- Perceived Injustice: Protests against Goodluck Jonathan (GEJ) and Bola Ahmed Tinubu (BAT) could be driven by perceptions of marginalization or unfair treatment of the North under their leadership.

- Political Patronage: The North has historically benefited from significant political patronage during the tenures of Northern presidents. This could create a vested interest in maintaining the status quo and resisting protests.

Question 3: South West's Consistent Protests

"Why did the South Westerners always protest against all the Presidents?"

The South West of Nigeria has a rich history of political activism and protest, dating back to the colonial era. Several reasons might explain this enduring tradition:

- Political Consciousness: The South West is known for its high level of political awareness and consciousness. This region has a vibrant civil society and a history of activism, which fuels a culture of protest.

- Democratic Values: The South West places a strong emphasis on democratic values and accountability. Protests are often seen as a means to hold leaders accountable and demand better governance.

- Economic Factors: Economic disparities and grievances may also drive protests. The South West, being an economic hub, experiences significant socio-economic challenges that can trigger widespread discontent and protests.

Senator Shehu Sani's questions on X have sparked important discussions about the regional nuances of political protests in Nigeria. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for grasping the complexities of Nigerian politics and the diverse motivations behind protest movements. Each region's historical, cultural, and socio-political context plays a significant role in shaping its response to national leadership, and these factors must be considered when analyzing the country's political landscape.

Non Jme Questions;
Why did the South East refused to protest when many south easterners were supporting the protest?
Why did the Northerners refused to protest against Yar’adua and Buhari and they protested against GEJ and BAT?
Why did the South Westerners always protest against…

— Senator Shehu Sani (@ShehuSani) August 1, 2024