Foundation Of State Security, Consent Over Coercion And Its Implications In Governance In Nigeria

Written by Nduka Anyanwu

In the complex fabric of governance, the true shield of a nation does not rest solely in its police forces or military might. Rather, it lies fundamentally in the consent of its people.

Without the voluntary agreement and trust of its citizens, even the most formidable instruments of coercion become ineffective and hollow.

Historically and philosophically, the legitimacy of a state is rooted in the consent of its governed. When citizens believe in the fairness, justice, and purpose of the government, they are more likely to obey laws voluntarily, fostering stability and cohesion.

Conversely, when this trust erodes, the state's safety diminishes, often leading to civil disobedience or outright rebellion.

The safety of the ruling class, therefore, is not secured through force or intimidation alone. It depends crucially on the obedience of the populace—an obedience that is rooted in confidence that their leaders act justly and uphold their rights. 

When this trust is broken, coercive measures can only serve as temporary patches rather than sustainable solutions.

Revolts and anarchy are natural responses to abuses of power. When citizens feel oppressed, marginalized, or ignored, frustration can reach a boiling point, resulting in acts of defiance or chaos. These are not signs of inherent chaos but symptoms of a failure of leadership and governance.

To prevent such chaos and to ensure the long-term stability of a nation, leaders must prioritize cultivating and earning the consent of their citizens.

This entails establishing systems that are transparent, fair, and just—where laws are applied equally, rights are protected, and governance reflects the will and needs of the people.

In essence, the security and strength of a state are intertwined with the legitimacy it derives from its people. Power that is perceived as unjust or abusive breeds discontent, which can ultimately threaten the very foundation of the nation. 

Conversely, a government rooted in fairness and justice fosters loyalty, stability, and peace.

Conclusion

The path to enduring national security and stability is paved not with the barrel of the gun BUT with the trust and consent of the people.

Leaders who recognize this truth and act accordingly—by ensuring justice and fairness—lay the groundwork for a resilient and harmonious society.

When the social contract is honoured, the collective strength of the populace becomes the ultimate safeguard of the State.

Author 

Mr. Nduka Anyanwu, Special Adviser Media to APGA National Chairman