Governance without Conscience in Nigerian Polity: An Edification in Muyiwa Ademola’s Film, Owo Okuta (The Law of Karma)

Abstract

In post independent Nigeria, the perception of political leadership by the politicians and the electorates is that of arquiring power and wealth for self aggrandisement. Political office is thus seen as a short-cut to riches to keep poverty and penury at bay from the families and urborn generations of the politicans. In the bid to occumulate the commonwealth, funds meant for social services and infrastructure are diverted to frivolties. The electorates who should constitute effective checks and balances are collaborators by seeking compensation for their votes through sharing of looted funds, political patronages and appointments. Governance without conscience is what the film, Owo Okuta dramatises. Governor Keshinro (Olu Jacobs) in the film is a personification of selfish leader. The governor who ruled amidst bloodshed planned to enjoy the looted funds with his family after his tenure. But in a twist of fate, that could be described as nemesis, disaster strucks immediately. Governor Keshinro completed his tenure, one calamity after the other befell his immediate family. In his period of trial the former governor regretted not serving the people the way his mandate demanded. The rein lies the need to lead with conscience while in political office.

Keywords: Governance, Conscience, Political leadership, Edification.