Justice and the politico-economic development of Nigeria: a philosophical analysis

Abstract

The importance of the virtue of justice for peace and progress of a nation cannot be overemphasized. Justice is beneath the foundation of how we relate with one another, the kind of society we have and one we would expect to have in future, as well as how best to organize it. It has profound effect on the lives of citizens, influencing not only their prospect but more deeply their goals, attitudes, relationships and character. It also influences the economy, politics and every other aspect of our being so much so that we consider it central for the achievement of social order and the development of Nigeria. From the issue of legitimate use of political power, to Niger Delta agitation, true federalism, marginalisation and inequality, justice answers the demands of all. This paper therefore examines the notion of justice with consideration on social and distributive justice vis-à-vis the implication for the development of Nigeria, which requires that the basic structure of Nigeria be organized in order to bring to an end all the social and economic inequalities and marginalization that stunt or limit citizens’ progress and the expectations of the less advantaged members of the society. The paper argued further that in a heterogeneous society like Nigeria, the principle of justice must be employed in the distribution of social and economic goods so that everyone and not a privileged few, gets a fair share in order to promote the happiness of all and enthrone a harmonious and well-ordered society anchored on the principles of fairness and equity.