Sophists played important roles in the development of the Greek political system. It is believed that democracy as a system of government originated from there. These sophists were known for their great oratorical skills, with firm grasp of logic and rhetoric.
The Agora, a place reserved for public/political discussions and debates was their centre, where they tested their power of conviction and competed with one another. The one with a the best argument got the applauds and heart of the people. Social policies were often formulated from the outcomes of these discussions and debates.
However, these sophists were also notorious for their cunning and often dubious mannerism. Their sugar-coated tongue often diverted the attention of the people from the real matters at stake. They could argue convincingly that white was black and vice versa, dragging the people along with them.
And because of their crafty nature, they often fell out with philosophers like Socrates and Plato, who were more interested in feeding the people with the truth, no matter how bitter it sounded.
Coming to Nigeria, many have observed how polished President Buhari’s cabinet appears to be; men and women with eminent and staggering personalities. It is often difficult to raise a voice of opposition when they speak because of their far-reaching power of conviction, similar to the Greek sophists. This was first noticed during the ministerial screening at the Senate, when all the nominees were never short of words to defend their stand.
However, Nigerians are gradually waking up and are becoming tired of words without action. The information minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed was the first ‘victim’ of this awakening. Nigerians gradually started finding loopholes in his arguments and eventually denounced him for being economical with the truth. The minister’s name was consequently changed from ‘Lai Mohammed’ to ‘Lie Lie Mohammed’ with reference to his alleged sly nature.
Another minister that has come under observation is the Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun. The masses are becoming tired of her facts and figures without equivalent improvement in the country’s economy. The people are no longer serenaded by her flawless accent and diction, and are rather demanding action and results. Some quarters have even dubbed her as inexperience in handling the massive economic crisis facing the country. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala may not have a foreign accent, but to them, she appears better for the job. They have advised Buhari to eat the humble pie and ask for the latter’s help to revive the ailing economy.
Babatunde Fashola is yet another minister who most Nigerians are not very pleased with. As governor of Lagos, he achieved giant strides and distinguished himself among other governors. Unfortunately he is yet to replicate these achievements in his recent appoint as minister of works, power and housing. In spite of the several town hall meetings, which are by the way similar to the Agora of ancient Greece, it has all been words with little or no result. Electricity supply in the country has continued to dip in spite of numerous plans and policies churned out by Fashola. Many have argued that his position as head for three major ministries have inundated him. In his defence, Fashoal claimed that he has not been overwhelmed, saying that the ministries he is handling are actually connected to one another. Results however say the contrary.
The Vice President as well has been accused by some for his tepidity. Where was he when President Buahri registered Nigerian in an Islamic coalition? Nigerians expect VP Osinbajo, who is a christian cleric, to be the moral stronghold of the government, dissuading the federal government from policies with serious ethnic, religious and moral implications.
Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi has been fingered as one of those who have caused problems with his words. Many believe he is a major contributor to the security problems rocking Rivers State. The Rivers State government have even threatened to take legal actions against him. This obvious bad-blood between Amaechi and the incumbent governor of Rivers state, Nyesom Wike, is echoed in almost all interviews he features in. He spares no opportunity to slam Wike’s government.
Succinctly, Buhari and his minister are therefore urged to talk less and act more. The several town hall meetings, television and radio interviews held across the country would be totally unless if Nigerians do not experience meaningful improvement in the general standard of living. It is time to set the ball rolling and show Nigerians what they have to offer. 2019 is not as far as President Buhari and his ministers think.
