NIGERIA: ELITISM AND THE TRAVAILS OF A FAILED STATE

Abstract

This paper traced Nigeria’s woes to elitism- leadership by a select few for the select few. This draconian system is not peculiar to Nigeria only but has become the leadership style in most African states and it is the major reason for the collapse of virtually all African states. Peculiar features of this system of leadership are Machiavellianism, nepotism, cronyism, sadism, and fatalism. The effects of this system have been explored in the paper and measures have also been suggested to counter its continuance and save Nigeria from her present state.