Nigeria's Monarch: A Regal Portrait by Donu Kogbara

Donu Kogbara reflects on President Bola Tinubu's recent visit to London and Windsor with King Charles, noting that Tinubu's actions resemble those of a monarch, given his significant influence and power in Nigeria, which has undermined the country's democratic system.

Tinubu's authority is contrasted with King Charles's more limited, constitutional role, where the monarch is obliged to follow the instructions of elected UK politicians and respond to public scrutiny, whereas Tinubu operates with greater autonomy and discretion.

Tinubu's ability to spend freely and make decisions without accountability is highlighted, including his transfer of his household and office to solar power while many Nigerian citizens struggle with electricity outages and basic needs, underscoring the disparities in power and privilege.

The fact that Tinubu and his associates appear to be above the law, thanks to a weak judiciary and other factors, is seen as a key aspect of his "imperial behaviour", raising questions about the state of democracy in Nigeria and the potential consequences of unchecked power.

A message to the Nigerian people suggests that if they allow Tinubu's authoritarian tendencies to continue unchecked, it may be more practical to organize a coronation for "King Bola and Queen Remi" rather than investing in the upcoming election, which could be seen as a mere formality.

Last week, Donu Kogbara invited readers to share their views on Tinubu's "conquest" of Nigeria, and some responses are featured, including comments from Asuefaa Sasime from Bayelsa state, who criticizes Tinubu's government for surrounding itself with sycophants and incompetent individuals.

Asuefaa Sasime also argues that Tinubu's government is enabling corruption by selectively prosecuting political opponents, and that the president is acting like a "democratic dictator" who will stop at nothing to maintain power, using tactics similar to those employed by Abacha.

Another respondent, Mike from Mushin, offers a different perspective, suggesting that Tinubu's conquest is temporary and will ultimately be reversed if the opposition can unite and focus their efforts, citing the importance of wealth, power, and political wisdom in Nigerian politics.

Mike also draws parallels between Tinubu's strategy and Abiola's 1992 campaign, where wealth and political savvy played key roles, and argues that Tinubu's dominance is sustained by the confusion and division within the opposition, particularly Atiku's ambitions.

Mike urges Atiku to step down in favour of Peter Obi, allowing for a more robust and competitive election, and expresses confidence that the opposition can ultimately defeat Tinubu and reclaim Nigeria's democratic future.

Donu Kogbara invites readers to check out her YouTube channel, DONU'S WORLD, which features commentaries on Nigerian issues, including a recent video that critiques the tendency to blame the Presidency for all problems while neglecting the roles of governors and local government chairmen.

Readers are encouraged to visit Donu's World library on YouTube, subscribe to the channel, and share their opinions and criticisms, with the option to request anonymity for their feedback, which can be sent to the provided email or phone number.