Oath Taking and Its Place in Politics

OATH TAKING AND ITS PLACE IN POLITICS:
THE NIGERIAN EXPERIENCE
BY
OLANIYI VICTORIA TOLULOPE
MATRIC NO: 100106018
BEING A LONG ESSAY SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF RELIGION
AND AFRICAN CULTURE, FACULTY OF ARTS, ADEKUNLE AJASIN
UNIVERSITY AKUNGBA AKOKO IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE
DEGREE IN RELIGION AND AFRICAN CULTURE.
FEBRUARY, 2015
i
CERTIFICATION
This is to certify that this project was carried out by Olaniyi Victoria Tolulope in
the Department of Religion and African Culture, Faculty of Art, Adekunle Ajasin
University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria under my supervision.
……………………………………. ….......................
MR. B.S. OGUNMOROTI DATE
SUPERVISOR
……………………………………. ……………………
DR. OGUNLEYE A. RICHARD DATE
H.O.D
DEDICATION
ii
This research work is dedicated to God Almighty the giver of wisdom, knowledge
and understanding, and to my adorable parents, Mr. Ipinmoroti Olaniyi and Mrs. Olaniyi
Bukola.
iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
My gratitude goes to God Almighty for his divine mercy, protection, preservation,
guidance and providence throughout my academic pursuit at Adekunle Ajasin Akungba
Akoko-Akoko. I am grateful for his uncommon blessings and grace over my life during
the course of my study.
I am using this opportunity to express my gratitude to everyone who supported
me through the course of this project. I am thankful for their aspiring guidance,
invaluably constructive criticism and friendly advice during the project work. I am
sincerely grateful to them for sharing their truthful and illuminating views on a number of
issues related to this project work.
I express my warm thanks to Mr. B.S. Ogunmoroti my project supervisor, who
painstakingly guided me towards a coherent and redefined work of his nature. His
corporation, support and constructive criticism are for me, a particular source of
stimulation. I am highly grateful to him
I also acknowledge my H.O.D Dr. A.R. Ogunleye for his fatherly love in the
department. More importantly, I am indebted to my parents, my sister Miss Olaniyi
Damilola and brother Mr. Olaniyi Ayobami, Mr. Ayinde Aremu, Mr. Balogun
Olamilekan, Miss Abass Adeyinka, Mr. Olaonipekun Olusegun, Osunwekomi
Ademolakun, for their immense support during the course of my study at the university.
And many more not mentioned here, thanks for your love and care, God bless you all.
iv
ABSTRACT
The research aimed at an in depth analysis of oath taking, introducing the various types of
oaths. The research further aimed at explaining politics in Nigeria and the relevance of
oath to it, coupled with the problem of corruption and god-fatherism which follows in the
wake of negligence of oaths of the office by Public Office holders, the research therefore,
explains how Nigeria would look like if public office holders adhere to their oaths of
office. The work employed secondary source of information to get data used to establish
its points and it is perceived that it would contribute to the existing body of knowledge on
oath taking and at the same time, provoke further study.
v
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE………..…………………………………………………………………….i
CERTIFICATION...............................................................................................................ii
DEDICATION...................................................................................................................iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT..................................................................................................iv
ABSTRACT........................................................................................................................v
TABLE OF CONTENTS...................................................................................................vi
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION..............................................................................1
1.0 Introduction...................................................................................................................1
1.1 Background to the study................................................................................................1
1.2 Statement of the Problem..............................................................................................3
1.3 Aims and Objectives of the Study................................................................................4
1.5 Scope and Limitation...................................................................................................5
1.6 Definition of terms........................................................................................................6
Endnotes..............................................................................................................................7
CHAPTER TWO: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE......................................9
2.0 Introduction....................................................................................................................9
2.1 Literature Review..........................................................................................................9
2.2 Conclusion...................................................................................................................13
Endnotes............................................................................................................................14
CHAPTER THREE: OATH TAKING AND POLITICS............................................16
3.0 Introduction..................................................................................................................16
3.1 Oath and how it is taken..............................................................................................16
vi
3.2 The Purpose of Oath Taking........................................................................................22
3.3 Effects of Oath Taking.................................................................................................24
3.4 The Relevance of Oath Taking...................................................................................26
3.5 Conclusion..................................................................................................................27
Endnotes............................................................................................................................29
CHAPTER FOUR: POLITICS IN NIGERIA.............................................................33
4.0 Introduction.................................................................................................................33
4.1 Politics in Nigeria........................................................................................................33
4.2 Oath Taking in Nigeria Politics...................................................................................36
4.3 Effects of Corruption in Nigeria Politics.....................................................................38
4.4 Effects of the Adherence to the Oath of Office..........................................................41
4.4 Conclusion.................................................................................................................45
Endnotes............................................................................................................................47
CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION................................................52
5.1 Conclusion.................................................................................................................52
5.2 Findings.......................................................................................................................53
5.3 Recommendations........................................................................................................54
5.4 Summary.....................................................................................................................56
BIBLOGRAPHY...............................................................................................................57
vii
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.0 Introduction
In most modern democracies, groups and individuals vie for power through
affiliations with competent political parties. Nigeria’s fourth Republic has the largest
number of political parties ever, with a total of sixty three so far only a few of these
parties are however, viable and competent enough to successfully vie for political power
even at the local government level.
Politics, to many, is all about acquiring power and only party formations that have
potentials to deliver on such a promise to its followers can attract and retain membership,
especially in a country like Nigeria. In democracy, parties are supposed to operate mostly
independent of the government. For countries like Nigeria, where there is material
poverty, disposable income with which to fund party activities is hard to come by
amongst the citizenry. Political parties in Nigeria are usually founded by fund revised by
only a few financiers who had access to big government contracts in preceding
administrations, notable figures within the military establishment thus have a
disproportionately high representation in this cadre and the civilians are mostly
individuals who are known to have benefited immensely from military rulers in regimes
that preceded current civilian democratic dispensation.
1.1 Background to the study
Among the cultural heritage that Nigeria shared with other African communities
is covenant keeping.1 Africans being very religious, has covenant and its keeping as one
1
of their religious elements. As a background to this study, we need to examine politics as
it is experienced in Nigeria.
In recent years, especially in this present political, social and economic
dispensation, many people that were saddled with one responsibility or the other are
performing below expectations.2 The reality on ground is that the people in authority who
are to act in such a way, not only to abide by laws but also to come by the approvals of
those affected by their positional actions seem unable to enforce the highest degree of
moral and religious truth demanded by this age.3
This moral decadence has led to a series of corrupt practices, among them are:
ascending to political leadership through election rigging and genocidal political
techniques, son of soil philosophy, political of expediency, judicial fractionalization of
human beings, political self-aggrandizement, political Hitlerism as a mechanism for
retention of power, replacement of “we feeding” by “me-feeding”, uncurtailed lust of
wealth, giving and receiving of kickbacks for government contracts, police insistence on
taking bribes as precondition of performing their duties.4
Babalola argued that corruption in politics occurs at two levels. The first level has
to do with the various forms of corruption in politics at the law-making level while the
second form is the law-making implementation level. At the first level, people try to
influence law-making and policy decisions while at the second level, efforts are made by
people to pervert the course of justice and influence judgement.5
This aforementioned political corruption in Nigeria can be deduced to have been
borne out of the non-adherence to the oath of office taken by our public office holders.
Hence, this research work would look into the roles of oath-taking Nigerian politics.
2
1.2 Statement of the Problem
An oath, according to Wikipedia, also called plight is either a statement of face or
a promise with wording relating to something considered sacred as a sign of verity. 6
Certain promises said out loud in ceremonial or judicial purpose are referred to as oaths,
even when sacred objects are not given conscientious attention. This is usually regarded
as an affirmation, a good example of this, is the oath of office taken by anybody
occupying a public office.
Oath taking, which Nigeria politicians take with levity, is a serious issue that
ought to be taken with all seriousness. Due to the overbearing nature of God in the
Nigerian politics, it becomes difficult for public office holder to adhere to their oath of
office. This is because, despite them taking the oath, they neglect it in order to service
their most basic desire which mostly include the orders of their godfathers and as it is
said “two captains cannot be in the ship”. Thus, they forget their oaths and fulfill the will
of their god fathers who helped to install them.
Hence, a public office holder that neglects his oath of office cannot be a fair
leader because he would have discarded the constitution, silenced opposition and he
would tend towards been dictatorial. And he would inversely bribe his way through any
checks and balances. Thus, a public officer who forgets about his oath of office will
rather serve himself, his household and his political party, than serve the entire populace.
Foremost, among the problems facing good governance in Nigeria is corruption, which is
borne out of bad leadership and bad governance. This is inherently due to the fact that
Nigeria leader set aside the oath they took during their swearing-in and the oath taken has
3
become a formality to which people pay lip service. Thus, the difficulty of Nigeria is
rising above the state of penury.
1.3 Aims and Objectives of the Study
It is of absolute importance that public office holders’ especially Nigerian
politicians adhere to their oath of office to enable even development across the nation.
The inequality sharing of the dividends of democracy, whose basis is in the suspension of
oath of office, can hinder the rate of development, thereby making the Nigerian politics
under developed.
Hence, this research work aims at examining the various types of oath and how
they are taken. It also aims at determining how oath of office will be taken seriously by
public office holders in Nigeria. It is evident that despite the ubiquities of oath taking in
Nigeria, many people remain indomitably committed to falsehood, unfaithfulness and to
other related vices. Example abounds to the unfaithfulness at the level of the policy
making bodies to the lowest level of the decently enslaved masses. Thus oath taking,
instead of ameliorating the worsening national condition, has remained a virile tool for
perpetuating the worst altitude for the national demoralization and religious mesmerism.
It is believed that at the end of this research work, all office holders, that is,
politicians would have benefited from the study. This research work aims to showcase the
relevance of oath taking and will also focus on the effects of the adherence to the oath of
office on the democracy professed to be practiced by the nation. The study will also help
to show that oath taking cannot be separated from politics.
Finally, it is the aim of this study to point out how national unity and progress can
be attained in a diversified nation like Nigeria through adherence to the oath of office. It
4
will also examine the nature and level of corruption the nation has suffered due to
negligence of duty that leads to corruption through “belly politicking” by the politicians.
In conclusion, this research work will find out how politics has been conducted in
Nigeria in time past and at the same time, suggest methods for better politics in Nigeria.
This study is aimed at contributing to the existing body of knowledge on oath taking and
politics in Nigeria and at same time provoke further research.
1.4 Methodology
The method we will adopt during the cause of this research work will be
historical, that is it would be narrative and explanatory in that, it would discuss how
politics has been done in Nigeria in time past and at the same time draw out the origin of
oaths and its taking. However, all the necessary materials to be use will be channeled
toward the determining and understanding the effects of oath taking in politics in relation
to the Nigeria experience. During the course of this research work, the major source of
information would be secondary which are textbook, journals, newspapers, internet to
mention a few.
1.5 Scope and Limitation
Due to the vastness of Nigeria, the research work will not be given its full reins. It
would be limited to oath taking in the state and federal government only. Moreover, due
to the diversity of people and cultures in Nigeria, politics will only be examined in this
research work as related to Nigeria as a nation.
5
Furthermore, the information needed for this research will be gotten through
secondary source as lots of protocols may have to be seen before one can access the state
governor to get primary information.
Finally, during the course of this study, people and books that are hyperbolical
would be encountered. Hyperbolical in the sense that, they tend to exaggerate the effects
of a particular government, depending on how favourable or otherwise the government is
to them and not to the generality of the people.
1.6 Definition of terms
Oath is a formal promise to do something or a formal statement that something is true.7
Politics is the activities involved in getting and wing power in public life and being able
to influence decisions that affects a country or a society.8
Adherence is the fact of behaving according to a particular rule or following a particular
set of beliefs or a fixed way of doing things.9
6
Endnotes
1. Ahmed Babatunde Adeosun, Nigeria @50: The Role Of Good Governance And
Effective Public Administration Towards Achieved Economic Growth And
Stability In Fledging Democracy (International Journal of Politics and Good
Governance vol.3, No 3.3, Quarter III,2012),5.
2. A. Richard Ogunleye, Covenant Keeping among the Yoruba people: A Critique
of Socio-Political Transportation Nigeria (International Journal of Humanities
and Social Science Vol. 3 No 9, 2012), 4.
3. Chris Iwejuo Nwagboso and Otu Duke, Nigeria and the Challenge of Leadership
in the 21st century: A Critique (International Journal of Humanities and Social
Sciences Vol. 2, No. 13, 2012), 3.
4. Bababola, cited by M.A.O Aluko, The Institutionalization of Corruption and its
Impact on Political Culture and Behavior in Nigeria (Nordic Journal of African
Studies 11 (3): 393-402, 2002), 6.
5 M.A.O. Aluko, The Institutionalization of Corruption and its Impact on Political
Culture and Behavior in Nigeria (Nordic Journal of African Studies 11 (3): 393-
402, 2002). 4.
6. What is Oath, retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath, Accessed
27/08/2014.
7. A.S. Hornsby, Oxford Advanced Learners’ Dictionary of Current English, 6th
Edition (New York: Oxford University Press, 2000).
7
8. A.S. Hornsby, Oxford Advanced Learners’ Dictionary of Current English, 6th
9. A.S Hornsby, Oxford Advanced Learners’ Dictionary of Current English, 6 th
8
CHAPTER TWO: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
2.0 Introduction
This chapter shall review the works of scholars and what they have done on oath
taking and its place in the Nigerian politics.
2.1 Literature Review
According to Wikipedia online dictionary an “Oath, also called plight is either a
statement of fact or a promise with wording relating to something considered scared as a
sign of verity”.1 This definition is quite relevant to this research work, in that it helps us
to clarify the general meaning of oath. It goes further by stating that “legal substitute for
those who conscientiously object to making a scared oath is to give an affirmation
instead.2 This is also relevant to this research work as it has explained that oath is not
only a religious affair, but it has failed to tell us how this oath can be taken, this research
work will fill this gap.
While defining oath, Oxford Advance Learners dictionary states that it is a formal
promise to do something or a formal statement that something is true 3 this definition is
also relevant to this research work because it reveals exact purpose why oaths are taken,
that is, to ensure that something is done.
Politics on the other hand, is the “activities involved in getting and using power in
public life and being able to influence decisions that affects a country or a society”. 4 This
definition is relevant to the research work in that, it tells us what politics is about, but
does not explain to us the fundamental activities involved in politics. This research work
will fill this gap. It is also “activities associated with the governance of a country or other
9
area, especially the debate or conflict among individuals or parities having or hoping to
achieve power”5 this definition has succeeded in telling us some of the activities involved
in politics. Most importantly, it has subtly told us that election is a part of politics.
However, the next line of action after election is omitted and this will be looked into
during the course of this work.
Ahmed Babatunde Adeosun, while writing on good governance cited Natufe, who
defined government as “collective body of elected and appointed institutions, empowered
to legislate and adjudicate for the good of the society”. 6 This is quite relevant to this
research work in that it explained to us why and how politics came to be.
On the other hand, the World Bank defines governance “as the manner in which
power is exercised in the management of a country’s economic and social resources” 7 this
definition however, explained the main duties of government but never reveal how these
duties of government can be implemented. This work will do justice to this lacuna.
The former governor of Lagos state, Bola Ahmed Tinubu described governance as
the process of decisions making and the process by which decisions are executed or not
implemented”8 This definition shows that it is quite possible for a governance to be
effective thus termed good governance or ineffective that is, bad governance. It however
failed to explain criteria to be used to adjudge governance or either good or bad.
Writing on Oath taking in Christianity, Anulefela opines that “swearing an oath is
another way of making covenant in the Old Testament” 9. He illustrated this by citing an
example, of Abraham who made his servant Eliezer to undergo oath taking, he was
commissioned to get a wife for Isaac, his son. Abraham asked him to put his hand under
his (Abraham’s) thigh and swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and earth that he would
10
not take a wife for Isaac from the daughters of the Canaanites among whom they
dwelt”.10 This above example is quite relevant to this research work as it establishes the
existence of Oath taking in Judeo-Christianity or in the Ancient Near East.
Ogunleye writing on covenant, from Yoruba view assets that:
“By the doctrine of the African traditional religion, man is

expected to be in a covenant relationship with his fellow
man and object of worship. The implication of this is that
any harm done to one member affects other members. Thus,
it becomes necessary for the members of a cultic or
religious group to seek for the well-being of one another
and avoid any action that amounts to the breaking of
covenant. With this in mind, the Yoruba people often
handled the phenomenon of covenant with utmost care in
order to move the society forward”.11
This has explained to us that to ensure peace and tranquility in the society,
covenants made are expected to be kept. He however did not highlight what will happen
if such covenants are not kept. This research work will shed more light on this.
While writing on the purpose of Oath taking, Steven J. Cole is of the opinion that
“the purpose of an Oath was to guarantee truthfulness by ones calling on God as
witness.”12 Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia gives six (6) types of oaths and they are as
follows:
“Hippocratic Oath is an Oath historically taken by

physicians and other health care professionals swearing to
practice medicine honestly,
11
Oath of allegiance is an Oath whereby a subject or citizen
acknowledges a duty of allegiance and swear loyalty to
monarch or country.
Oath of citizenship is an Oath taken by immigrants that
officially naturalize them into citizens.
Oath of Office is affirmation a person takes before
undertaking the duties of an office.
Pauper’s Oath, is a sworn statement or oath by a person
that he or she is completely without money or property.
Veterinarian’s Oath is an Oath taken by veterinarians as
practitioners of veterinary medicine in a manner of
Hippocratic Oath”.13
This is also quite relevant to this research work as it helps to know the various
types of oath that are in existence. It however fails to speak about divine oath, which is
one of the onus of this research work.
Godwin Ijediogan and Samson Ezea, while writing on the relationship between
Oath taking and politics in Nigeria, they expressed that:
“Official Oath taking is not strange to Nigeria. For before an

elected office holder assumes power, he/she is expected to take an
oath of Allegiance and or oath of office. For the president “I do
solemnly swear/affirm that I will be faithful and bear true
allegiance to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and that I will
preserve, protect and defend the constitution of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria.” The president governors and some other
elected office holders also take an oath of office “ to discharge my
duties to the best of my ability, faithfully and in accordance with
the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the law and
always in the interest of the sovereignty, integrity, well being and
prosperity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria…….that I will not
12
allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my
official decisions”. 14
This has been able to explain that, a cordial relationship exists between oath
taking and politics in Nigeria. And in the same vein it tells us what the Nigeria oaths of
office entails.
O.O. Familusi, while writing on politics in Nigeria, is of the opinion that
“political god-fatherism has been institutionalized in Nigeria. Thus, the activities of god
fathers in politics cannot be ignored and as such have contributed and continued to
impact negatively on governance and democratization”. 15 This point out the god-
fatherism is one of the issues facing politics and democracy in Nigeria, but it has failed to
tell us what the political environment of Nigeria looks like. Hence, this research work
will fill this gap.
2.2 Conclusion
This chapter reviewed some works of various scholars on various definitions of
oath, politics and also the nature of politics in Nigeria but as failed to tell us what the
political environment of Nigeria looks like. It was also reviewed in this chapter the types
of oath we have in different spheres of profession including the religious aspect of oath
taking. Regardless of the noteworthy contributions by the various authors, they have been
able to wholly add that oath is not just a religious affair but it has failed to tell us how this
oath can be taken, this research work will fill this gap.
13
Endnotes
1. Oath, retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath Accessed, 3/09/2014
2. Oath, retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath Accessed, 3/09/2014
3. A.S Hornsby, Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary of Current English, 6 th
4. What is politics? Retrieved at
http://www.google.com/searchClient=msrim&w=en&Q=what%is
%politics3f&ie=wf-8&oe=utf-channelbrowser. Accessed 3/09/2014
5. What is politics? Retrieved at
http://www.google.com/searchClient=msrim&w=en&Q=what%is
%politics3f&ie=wf-8&oe=utf-channelbrowser. Accessed 3/09/2014
6. Igho, Natufe, cited by Ahmed Babatunde Adeosun, Nigeria @50: The Role of
Good Governance and Effective Public Administration towards Achieving
Economic Growth and Stability in Hedging Democracy (International Journal of
Politics and Good Governance, Volume 3, N0 33 Quarter III, 2012),10.
7. World Bank, citied by Ahmed Babatunde Adeosun, Nigeria @50: The Role of
Politics and Good Governance, Volume 3, N0 33 Quarter III, 2012), 9.
8. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citied Ahmed Babatunde Adeosun, Nigeria @50: The Role of
14
Politics and Good Governance, Volume 3, N0 33 Quarter III ,2012),7.
9. J.O. Anulefela, Covenants in the Old Testament and in Yoruba land (Ibadan;
Daystar Press, 1988), 9.
10. J.O Anulefela, Covenants in the Old Testament and in Yoruba land (Ibadan;
Daystar Press, 1988), 11.
11. A. Richard Ogunleye, Covenant Keeping among the Yoruba People: A Critique of
Socio-political Transformation in Nigeria (International Journal of Humanities and
Social Science Volume 3, No 9, 2012), 6.
12. Stephen Cole J, the Christian Oath. Retrieved at
http://freemasonry.bay.ca/texts/oaths-taking . Accessed, 17/10/2014
13. Types of Oath, retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath Accessed,
17/10/2014
14. Godwin Ijediogor and Samson Ezea, Nigerian Politics and Oath taking Retrieved at
http://www.nigerianbestforum.com/index.php?topic=36767 Accessed 17/10/2014
15. O.O Familusi, Towards a Religious Alternative to political and God-fatherism in
Nigeria Religion and Governance in Nigeria (Ibadan: Department of Religious Studies,
University of Ibadan, 2012), 436.
15
CHAPTER THREE: OATH TAKING AND POLITICS
3.0 Introduction
It is a proverbial fact that oath-taking constitutes an integral part in politics. The
shoddy nature of Nigeria politics has necessitated the incorporation of oath taking into it.
Therefore this chapter will as a matter of necessity and compulsion examine the
relevance of oath-taking to politics. Also, this chapter will unarguably explicate the
relationship that subsists between oath-taking and politics.
3.1 Oath and how it is taken
As a matter of fact, oath which according to Oxford Advanced Learners
dictionary, is a solemn promise to do something or a solemn declaration that something is
true,1 is undoubtedly and integral part of every society. The reason being that people take
oath in order to profess their unwavering loyalty and unalloyed commitment to the
betterment of their people, after they have been placed or elected into a position of
authority. Oath taking in Nigeria politics is borne out of the fact that corruption is
pandemic in man and will probably remain in him for sometime to come. 2 As a result of
this people in exalted position or political offices are placed under compulsion to swear
an oath before they assume offices.3
It is not out of place to establish that oath-taking has curtailed some exercise in
the society. For example some political leaders act not only in conformity with the
Nigerian constitution but also in accordance with the wish of the people as a result of the
oath they have taken. In other words, people that take oath act in consonance with the
solemn declaration they made before they assumed offices owing to the fact that they
16
realize the consequences that are inherent in not fulfilling their promises. From time
immemorial, oath taking has played vital and significant roles in the society, in the sense
that, people feel enmeshed after they have taken oath and because of this, subscribe
themselves to each and every word used in the oath they have taken.
It is not erroneous to explain that oath taking is synonymous with covenant
making, which is to establish a relationship of truthfulness. 4 Lockyer’s realized this when
he postulated that:
“Generally speaking, Covenants were originated by God for man’s

good, to condition life on earth. From this side, covenants cannot
be broken, man may break covenant and break them as he often
does, but God’s word or promise, or covenant cannot fail. My
covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is said out of my
lips (psalm 89:34)”.5
From Lockyer’s point of view, it can be inferred that covenant making goes far beyond
words of mouth or reaching an agreement. It creates a relationship between man and the
transcendental power. In the same view, oath taking performs similar function, if not the
same with covenant making. Therefore, oath taking occupies a pride of place in the
society right from the traditional period to the modern age as a result of the consequential
roles it plays in the society.
Oath taking rears its head in many religious and secular institutions, for various
human disciplines and in the private life or several individuals. It is one of the world’s
oldest practice that have stood the test of many epochs and generations; it has outlived
the reigns of many rulers, the hegemony of many civilizations and the attacks of many
17
critics.6 Oath taking can generally be defined as religious moral and psychological
enforcement of an act over an agreed situation, or a conformation of the truth by naming
something held sacred, a statement or promise conformed by an appeal to a sacred higher
being to enforce the attached sanction.7
The practice of a divine oath is usually an invocation of a divine agency to be a
guarantor of the oath taken. The oath taker own absolute honesty and integrity to the oath
taken because life is impossible without trust and that the growth of the society is
founded on unspoken natural trust.8 Thus, to swear falsely is a humiliation to God and to
one’s own country, it is seen as a contempt for the integrity and intelligence of the
people.9 Oath taking is essentially religious it binds two or more people together in
mutual confidence that there would not be a betrayal of the confidence they repose in one
another. In taking an oath, there is often the appeal to a high power that is believed to be
unbiased towards or against any party involved in the oath taking, while at the same time
the higher power serves as a witness and as a potential sanctioned to punish whosoever
fails to carry out the statement promised on oath. The higher power could be God, a local
deity, a deceased ancestors or even a moral body.10
A person taking this kind of oath, that is the divine oath; indicates this in a
number of ways. The most usual is the explicit concluding part that calls on something
“as my witness” and “so help me” with something or someone which the oath taker holds
scared.11 Many people take an oath by holding in their hands or placing over their head, a
book of scripture or a scared object, thus indicating the scared witness through their
action. Such an oath is referred to as coporate.12 this is because making an oath or
covenant taking binds people together, thus a member does not live his life alone. He is a
18
member of the corporate body. Life and prosperity belong to all and are shared together,
when a member is in sorrow others share the joy with him. Material things are owned and
shared together punishment too are shared together corporately in form of feeling pain or
sympathy.13
Christianity and Islam also adopt the practice of Oath taking, their advocates
swear on their holy write and on the names of their deities or God, in some of their
ceremonies. Oath taking is ritualized and demand as a prerequisite for either ordination or
for the acceptance of a religion or religious office. Apart from the appeal to God, people
present at the Oath taking ceremony are called upon to witness the ritual.14
In Christianity, the concept of oath is deeply rooted in it, it is fond in Genesis
8:21, when God swears that He will “never again curse the ground because of man and
never smite every living thing.15 Eliezer the servant of Abraham also made an oath to
Abraham by placing his hand on Abraham’s thigh to make a solemn promise that he
would not choose a wife for Isaac among daughter of Canaan. 16 In Christianity, the
scriptural of departure is the third commandment, which is translated in the King James
Version as “Thou shall not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain: for the lord will
not hold him guiltiness that taketh his name in vain”. Many Christians incorrectly assume
that this verse merely teaches that we should not curse using the name of God. Indeed,
the third commandment does teach that we should not curse using the name of God.17
Islam on the other hand, takes fulfillment of oath extremely serious that one of the
sayings of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) commonly referred to as Hadith, instincts
Muslims to “make oaths only in Allah Almighty, the Master of all beings and protect
19
them more than your lives18. Sahih Buk hai 45:15 which implies that when a Muslim
wants to make an oath. It is impermissible to swear by anyone other than Allah,
regardless of whether it is a father, grandfather, Sheikh, saint, religious leader, highly
virtuous person or a prophet. As some people take an oath by Ali or by fire pure
personalities, it is all prohibited.19
The Yoruba traditional religion would be used to represent African traditional
religion. In Yoruba traditional religion, views oath as a form of covenant. A covenant
which is made in form of an oath that is taken in front of divinity or religious emblem
makes Yoruba people to comport themselves well in the society. A newly enthroned king
who swears to deliver justice without fear or favor is duly bond to keep it. Anything
contrary to the oath leads to disaster. There are different kinds of oaths among the
Yoruba, some of them are covenant between friends, and this can be in form of an
ordinary spoken agreement between two friends. This type of covenant is often sealed
with sharing of kolanut and speak ill of each other. This is because; kolanut is an
important fruit in the Yoruba spiritual life. It is believed to be capable of warding off
death, diseases and even pestilence. If two or more friends share a piece of kolanut, the
act becomes a covenant, thus anybody who betrays the terms of covenant is surely
attracting evil on his/her head.
Another one is the marriage covenant. Once a woman is married to a man, she
becomes one with him. Both the husband and wife will enter into a covenant, which is
usually regarded as blood covenant.20 this type of covenant, according to Anulefela, is
often made in secret without the knowledge of their extended families. To go about this,
the man would incise his body (usually left arm) and she would do the same then would
20
rub kolanut in each other blood and then eat it, thus sealing the covenant with their
blood.21
Kings among the Yoruba people do no rule their kingdoms alone. They did so
together with the council of chiefs and however, the king can enter into a covenant with
his chiefs by leading them to the shrine of Ogun, the god of Iron, there, the chief priest
will mark them with camwood powder and chalk. After this, the entire chiefs will enter
into covenant of absolute loyalty with the king.22
The religious aspect of covenant was introduced into the Nigerian system of
government in the form of oath of office which public officers have to swear in order to
make them serve the public conscientiously. The oath of office, which can be
administered by either a court or its delegate, involves pledging loyalty to perform
faithfully the duties associated with the office. During this exercise, each person is
allowed to swear an oath of office with the religious paraphernalia or cultic symbol for
the religion one belongs .23
In contemporary day, oath taking has taken another dimension as the witness can
decide the form he wish to administer the oath, it could be through raising up of hand or
other form which he or she believes agrees with the faith professed 24. In Nigeria, oath
taking is a common feature of the law. The government offices, the marriage registries,
the religious institutions, students take oath at matriculation ceremonies, thousands of
people swear to affidavits in law courts in declaration of age and before they witness to
cases in courts.
21
3.2 The Purpose of Oath Taking
It is needless to say that, for something to be considered an integral part of a
system or society, such thing must without equivocation serve some essential purposes.
Thus, oath taking which has been defined as a “statement of fact or a promise with
wording, relating to something considered sacred as a sign of verity”. 25 Oath taking has
several purposes why it is being established in the society. Firstly, it has spiritual purpose
why it is being established in the society. The spiritual significance of oath taking has
enabled some elected officers to perform exceptionally out of realization of the danger in
failing to deliver to the masses what they promised before they were enthroned or
assumed office.
The reasons for taking an oath are based on the historical significance of religion,
when swearing an oath before God was a serious thing. The serious nature of an oath is a
criminal offence and results in substantial penalties, including imprisonment. However,
in today’s multicultural society, the law recognizes a person’s right to belief other than
Christianity or Islam, and there are various oaths for people with other religious belief.26
Additionally, oath taking inculcates patriotism into the leaders, they make
anxious efforts to defend and combat any challenges that ensue during the courses of
their administration. Oath taking serves as a source of encouragement to their takers. This
is because some leaders, for instance, public office holders when they want to perform
their duties, the oath they have taken will still boost their self-esteem and by the
adherents of these oaths, there will be peaceful democratic governance in our nation.
22
Oath taking is a force to reckon with in the life of an individual, and puts up act
that are adjudged to be morally justified. However, one of the purposes of oath taking
helps the people to act within the confine of moral laws that are put in place in the
society. The emphasis on the significance of the responsibilities of the office being
assumed and re-enforce the accountability of the oath takers.
Oath taking also injects sanity into politics, constraining them to fulfill the
promises they made before they assumed office. This is because oath taken by the leader
will make them strive to act in a way to act and perform in line with expectations of the
masses and try as much as possible to eradicate any act that could culminate into violence
and political upheaval.
Finally, oath taking serves the purpose of grinding the people in the corridor of
power or in position of authority on the principles they are expected to uphold in
performing their duties. It awakens people to their duties and helps them to be more
conscious and disposed to their constitutional duties.
In conclusion, sequel to the above, it is quite understandable that oath taking
serves different purposes which are too numerous to mention. The purpose of oath taking
is to enhance the commitment of people to their duties, which promotes social
reconciliation, peace building and brotherhood. It also includes authentic humanism,
positive dialogue, equitable and just in sharing of resources, abundant provision of the
amenities of life. Thus, oath taking is an integral part of the society.27
23
3.3 Effects of Oath Taking
It is noteworthy that oath taking has consequential effects on the oath takers and
the society at large, in both positive and negative ways. The effects oath taking has on the
takers when there is utter adherence are quite erroneous and pleasant while the reverse is
always the case in a situation whereby the oath taken is handled with levity. In other
words, the impact of oath taking is largely felt by the people of the society and this
impact, be it positive or negative is often determined by the manner which the oath taker
goes about the oath he or she has taken.
Oath taking comes in diverse manners. In the traditional setting, before a man
could be put at the helms of affairs, such a person must swear to an oath by pledging his
commitment and showing his readiness to serve in accordance with the expectation of the
people. The oath is often administered by traditional leaders and witnessed by the people,
taking the Oath-taker through their presence that confidence is being reposed in him and
that failure to fulfill his promises will be catastrophic.
Therefore the effect this kind of oath has on the society is that there would be a
cordial relationship between the leader and the people. This often ushers in seasons of
abundance comfort and growth in all ramifications. In a case where the oath taker
renegade on his promise, what will be the order of the day is a strained and it also attracts
wrath of the gods by whom the oath is taken.28
The form of this oath taking in governance in modern day perspective can be
considered to be legally implicating because of the fear attached to it. 29 Some individuals
swear to affidavit to change the dates of their births several times in life time in order to
24
gain certain official secular advantages. Man can only be physically be born once, yet
indirectly, Nigerian courts have through affidavit made people have more than ten or
more rebirths without death. Such mysterious people continue to hold important positions
in Government establishments. How would such people lead others to truthfulness? 30
Politically, keeping to an oath brings about an even development, landmark
achievement and several developmental programs to mention but few because all these
must have been promised in the course of taking the oath. In a situation whereby
credence is not given to the oath taken by the political office holder ,the effect as always
been untold hardships on unbridled corruption, chaotic environment, open hostility and
dwindling economy which are very inimical to the growth of any society.
In the court of law, before a person can be a witness to a case, such person must
take an oath with promise that all he/she would say will be the absolute truth, this is
because, the witness’ position is one of the detriments of the judgment. The effect this
has on the society is that if the witness is truthful to the oath taken, there would be error
free judgments, but if he or she is not too truthful to the oath as a result of financial
benefits, the dispensation of judgments would be meddled up, thus making the Judgments
unfair. If the witness is caught to be telling a lie he or she would be charged with the
contempt of court and might be sent to jail or freed with stern warning.31
Finally, it is safe to conclude that the effects of oath taking largely depend on the
manner which the oath is being administered, the spiritual element that are involved and
ways the oath taker go about the oath they have taken.
25
3.4 The Relevance of Oath Taking
Scott Hultsman said” with great opportunity comes great responsibility. To save
selflessly, to create and share and to improve the world in which we live we need to take
oath”.32 Thus, oath is quite relevant in the society now because it helps to build reliable
relationship. This is because the person taking the oath enters into a cordial relationship
with the person administering the oath and the person for whom the oath is taken.
Oath taking is quite relevant in that, it helps in ensuring the commitment of the
oath taker to a particular duty. As Gabriel Anthony Sosa puts it “I would like to execute
well at making decision that considers every input and output with a mind for continuous
improvement for as many people as possible”. 33 This shows that when a public office
holder adheres and his fully committed to the oath of office there will be a mutual trust
which will give us a national thrust towards a better nationhood. There is a need to
restore a measure of mutual trust and inculcate in the hearts of all Nigerians a new
practical value of moral regeneration.
Again the relevance of oath taking is seen in the way it helps to refocus our moral
compass on accountability. This is so because anybody that takes an oath will strive to be
morally upright, so that when he is leaving office that is politically, he can be
accountable. And a person who can account for his expenditure, who makes decision that
is favorable to the majority of the people, is deemed responsible.
In conclusion, the integrity of an oath taker is assured especially when such a
person keeps to the oath he or she has taken, making the people to have faith in his words
and helping them to keep their hopes alive. Nigeria is in dire need of a reliable political
26
system. Public offices and security duty posts are often treated as individuals’ privilege
positions where officers dispense duties as favour to individuals. This is what is often
responsible for public contract awards, ten percent malpractices and bribery in its entire
ramification. The need for a well disciplined civil service cannot be over emphasized. 34
3.5 Conclusion
Oath which is the solemn promise to do something or a solemn declaration that
something is true is an integral part of every society. To ensure that corruption does not
override political leaders in Nigeria, they should be encouraged to strictly adhere to their
oath of office. We cannot have a peaceful nation as long as mutual mistrust reigns
supreme in the hearts of all Nigerians. The ascent of power and political control should
not be based on unproven wealth and diplomatic manipulation of votes and the gun.
Oath taking as it has been explained in this chapter is synonymous to covenant
making which has to establish a relationship of truthfulness. The concept of oath taking
cuts across the three major religions practiced in Nigeria that is Christianity, Islam and
Africa traditional religion represented in this research work as Yoruba traditional
religion.
In modern times affirmation can be used in place of oath, and it includes oath of
office and the witness of oath of office are usually taken so that public office holder can
be conscientious in discharging their duties. One of the purposes of oath is to instill
patriotism into these public office holders. The effect of oath taking cannot be
overemphasized as it ensures the commitment of public office holder to their duties and
at the same time, make them accountable for their decision and actions.
27
Conclusively the chapter has discussed what oath taking is all about, its purpose,
the effect it has and the relevance of oath taking in contemporary society. Thus, it has
been enumerated in this chapter that to ensure public office holders have commitment
and the spirit of patriotism the have to take a constitutional oath through their religious
object and which should be strictly adhered to for the even development of the country at
large.
28
Endnotes
1. A.S. Hornsby, Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary of Current English, 6 th
edition (New York: Oxford University Press, 2000).
2. J.O. Anulefela, Covenant in the Old Testament and in the Yoruba Land (Ibadan
Day Star Press, 1988), 1.
3. J.O. Anulefela, Covenant in the Old Testament and in the Yoruba Land (Ibadan
4. J.O. Anulefela, Covenant in the Old Testament And in the Yoruba Land (Ibadan
5. Lockyer, cited in J.O. Anulefela, Covenant in the Old Testament and in the
Yoruba Land (Ibadan Day Star Press, 1998), 1.
6. T.M. Ilesanmi, Oath-Taking as the Psychology of Mutual Mistrust in Nigeria
(Orita Ibadan Journal of Religious StudiesXXXVI/1-2, 2004), 123.
8. A. Richard Ogunleye, Covenant Keeping Among the Yoruba People: A Critique
of Socio-political Transformation in Nigeria (International Journal of Humanities
and Social Science volume 3, No 9, 2012), 3.
9. A. Richard Ogunleye, Covenant Keeping among the Yoruba People: A Critique
29
11. A. Richard Ogunleye, Covenant Keeping Among the Yoruba People: A Critique
and Social Science vol 3, No 9, 2012), 2.
12. Oaths Taking, Retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath. Accessed,
29/08/14
13. Oaths in Christianity Retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath. accessed
29/08/2014
15 Oaths in Christianity, Retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath. Accessed,
29/08/2014
16. Oaths in Christianity, Retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath. Accessed,
29/08/2014
17. Oaths in Christianity, Retrieved at
www.reformed.org/webfiles/antithesis/index.html!?mainframe=/webfiles/
antithesis/v1n_1/ant_v1n1_oaths.html Accessed, 29/08/2014
18. Oaths in Islam, retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath Accessed
29/08/2014
30
19. Oaths in Islam, retrieved at
www.answering-islam,org/Muhammad/inconsistent/oath_making.html accessed
23/11/2014
21. J. O. Anulefela, Covenant in the Old Testament and in the Yoruba Land (Ibadan
22. J.O Anulefela, Covenant in the Old Testament and in the Yoruba Land (Ibadan
Of Socio-political Transformation in Nigeria (International Journal of Humanities
and Social Science vol 3, No 9, 2012), 5.
24. Oladosu Olusegun, Yoruba Traditional Oath Taking: A Panacea for Good
Governance Religion and Governance in Nigeria (Ibadan: Department of
Religious Studies, University of Ibadan, 2012), 465.
25. A.S. Hornsby, Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary of Current English, 6th
Edition, (New York: Oxford University Press, 2000).
26. Purpose of oath taking, retrieved at www.justice.qld.gov.au/_ips accessed, 27/
11/2014
31
27. Chris Iwejuo Nwagboso, Nigeria and the Challenges of Leaders in the 21st
Century (International Journal of Humanities and Social sciences Vol.2, No.13,
2012)
28. Effects of Oaths, retrieved at http://www.mbaoath.org/forum. Accessed 6/9/2014
29. Oladosu Olusegun, Yoruba Traditional Oath Taking: A Panacea for Good
Governance, Religion and Governance in Nigeria (Ibadan: Department of
30. T.M. Ilesanmi Oath-Taking as the Psychology of Mutual Mistrust in Nigeria
31. C. Stuart Gilman, Ethics codes and codes of conduct for promoting an ethical and
professional public service: comparative successes and lessons. Retrieved at
http://www.oecd.org/mena.../35521418.pdf Accessed, 06/09/2014
34. T.M. Ilesanmi Oath-Taking as the Psychology of Mutual Mistrust in Nigeria
32
CHAPTER FOUR: POLITICS IN NIGERIA
4.0 Introduction
This chapter will examine how politics in practiced in Nigeria and at the same
time, illustrate where and how oath taking in relevant to politics in Nigeria. Thus it
becomes imperative that this chapter discuss the effects which the adherence to the oaths
of office will have on Nigeria, her people and her future politics.
4.1 Politics in Nigeria
Politics, according to Wikipedia online dictionary, is the activities associated with
the governance of a country or other area, especially the debate or conflict among
individual or parties having or hoping to achieve power 1. It has also been defined as the
practice and theory of influencing other people on a global, civic or individual level.
Moreover, it refers to achieving and exercising positions of governance that is, organized
control over a human community, particularly a state. 2 Finally, it is the study or practice
of the distribution of power and resources within a given community (a hierarchically
organized population) as well as the inter-relationships between communites.3
Based on these aforementioned definitions of politics, it can be deduced that it is
due to the nature of man to fulfill his needs, potential and aspiration, propel him to
33
always want to dominate or protect himself against domination by others. Therefore,
domination over others gives you the widest capacity to determine your own fate or
destiny. Thus, the substance of power struggling, recognition and authoritative allocation
of values and limited resources within the society is the beginning of politics and political
activities in the history of man.
In Nigeria, to be political is to be religious, this is because religion and politics are
so intertwined in Nigeria that Adeniyi is of the opinion that “religion and politics had
played and continue to play vital roles in the socio-cultural and geographical
development of Nigeria as a nation state. 4 The religion one professes, determines the
level of one’s popularity in an area. Politics is obviously not only party politics and the
politicians are not the only people who participate in politics. Party politics is an essential
feature of politics but it is not its only subject matter. 5 In every human organization from
the smallest to the largest, there is a need for decisions to be made by a few on behalf of
the many. This decision-making is what we usually refer to as politics. Politics, therefore
does not corner politicians alone-it concerns everybody in the society; “it affects all, it
should therefore concern all”.6
However in Nigerian politics, the public office holders may be said to be
participating in political life when their activity relates in some way to the making and
execution of policy for the society. But this has been the other way round, where the
political leaders make decisions for their own selfish interests and forgetting the promise
they made to the mass when taking the oath of office. Political life was developed by
human beings to avoid the State of nature. The State of nature is what the seventeenth
century English writer, Thomas Hobbes, described as the “war of all against all, where
34
life would be poor, solitary nasty, brutal and short”. 7 This means that everybody will be
making his decisions and an individual by nature is selfish, hence his decisions would be
aimed at maximizing his personal pleasures at the expense of others. This was the reason
for a political life in every organized society.
Nigeria on the contrary, instead of the fair political life, political god-fatherism
has been institutionalized, the activities of godfathers in politics cannot be ignored and as
such have continued to impact negatively on governance and democratization. While
writing on god-fatherism, Familusi observed that;
“God-fatherism used to be predominantly a Christian religious term, which
presupposes placing a young Christian under the tutelage of an older and a more
proven one, for spiritual guidance and mentoring. In recent times, it has assumed
a political coloration as attention is now seriously focused on political godfathers
whose antics manifest in the willingness to dictate tune to their godsons, self-
centeredness and manipulation of the electoral process to favour their cronies”.8
God-fatherism is a symbiotic relationship between two persons namely; the
godfather and the godson, whereby the godfather uses his political power and wealth to
secure political position for the godson, who upon ascension into power, pays
gratification to his mentor in kind or cash.9 The activities of political godfathers in recent
time cannot be overlooked, as such have continued to determine, to a great extent, where
the pendulum of the electoral process and governance swings.10
In the first republic, god-fatherism produced the notable figures in the likes of
Azikwe, Awolowo.11 God-fatherism has become a norm in Nigeria’s political
35
environment, where without a godfather, and an individual cannot secure a political
position. This, in the fourth republic, has assumed a lubricious dimension in Nigeria
policy. The political actors and their estranged political father were in the verge of
contending who is who in their state. Prominent among the warlords in the states are
Senator Modu Ali Sheriff vs Governor Mala Kachalla of Borno; Dr Olusola Saraki vs
Governor Muhammad Lawal (Kwara State) Senator Jim Nwobodo vs Governor
Chinwoke Mbadinuju (Anambara state); and Alhaji Abubakar Rimi vs Governor Rabiu
Kwankwaso of Kano State.12
God-fatherism in Nigeria politics has led to the corruption of the nation, which
has become so excessive that it has seriously disrupted the normal functions of the state.
The Nigerian State has become a weak edifice eroded by corruption; that Jibrin Ibrahim
is of the opinion that “high-level of corruption transforms the character of the State. The
Nigerian State has been transformed into patrimonial and rentier, one in which those who
are in control of state power and strategic bureaucratic offices use their positions for
private appropriation”.13 Thus, it is quite clear that godfather is a major component of
politics in Nigeria. Hence, Osca Ameringer’s definition is applicable in Nigeria, He
defined politics as “the gentle act of getting rote from the poor and campaign funds from
the rich by the promise to protect them from one another”14.
4.2 Oath Taking in Nigeria Politics
Oath taking which has been entrenched into politics the world over, is an aspect
of religion which is a potent force in achieving political stability in the land, considering
36
the role it can play in bringing bout development in the light of the corruption that
pervades the Nigerian society15.
In the present dispensation terrain in Nigeria, the political leaders are either
elected or appointed into government and the medium of election are via the voting
system. The executives, who emerge the majority vote, assume control of the
administration of the government of the territory for three to four years. 16 As can be
deduced from the foregoing, that elections has not been free and fair in Nigeria and this
suggests that each of the stakeholders has been found wanting in the discharge of his
responsiblities.17 After these leaders have been selected into office, through electoral
malpractices many of them renegade on the promises they have made to the people
The religious concept of covenant was introduced into the Nigeria system of
government in the form of oath of office which public officers have to swear in order to
make them serve the public conscientiously. 18 During this exercise, each person is
allowed to swear with the religious paraphernalia or cultic symbol of the religion one
belongs to. In the Nigeria context for example, adherent of traditional religion are
allowed to swear to Ogun (god of Iron) represented by a piece of metal while Christians
and Muslims could swear with the Bible and the Quran respectively. 19 The purpose of
using these religious objects is that, they are sacred objects; they were believed to have
the potential to instill fear in the people who swear by them. The act of obedience in this
regard reveal the allegiance to the faith that a person is involved in, since it is taken that
the object used in the act of oath are sacred.20
37
Unfortunately, rarely can one see a leader that wants to take the oath of office in
the indigenous way. Nevertheless, it has become an habitual reflection that most of the
implication attached to these sacred objects are taken or granted, this is why other non-
traditionalist (Muslims and Christians) taking oath of office by their sacred books could
contravene the command of their worship since they believe that no penalty is forth
coming or probably the nemesis may take long to occur or in most cases the acts of
seeking forgiveness may rather change the penalty already passed. 21 Hence, the oath
taken as a form of ensuring security and assuming conformity as it is practiced in Nigeria,
has never been effective. Hence, the Oath taken as a form of ensuring security and
assuming conformity as it is presently practiced in Nigeria, has never been effective.
One can therefore subsume that keeping to an Oath is a religious obligation that
demands truthfulness which is a moral value upon which all forms of social, ethical and
political relation are built,22 which our political leaders seems to lack in Nigeria. Today,
in Nigeria, many people that were saddled with one responsibility or the other are
performing below expectation. 23 It is a reality that the people in authority, who are to act
in such a way not only to abide by laws, but also to come by the approvals of those
affected by their positional actions, seem unable to enforce the highest degree of moral
truth demanded by this age and time. This, unarguably, has caused a lot of set backs to
the social development, political stability, cultural development and family integration.
Hence, the fostering of greater mass participation in decision making, policy formation,
execution and monitoring of public affairs and developing the confidence of the people in
themselves, in their societies and in their government. This in turn, would lead to the
38
development of a greater sense of commitment to development and a readiness to make
sacrifice for it24 that is the promises made to the people when they acquired the office.
4.3 Effects of Corruption in Nigeria Politics
Corruption is one of the most notorious enemies of man. It has unfortunately
eaten deep into the fabrics of the Nigerian society. Politicians and public office holders
are taking advantage of their opportunistic positions to cheat on others. Several conscious
efforts have been put in place to stem the tide of this pandemic but to no avail. 25 It is
certain that a good and healthy political environment in Nigeria will lead to a growth in
the social economic and all round development of the Nigerian nation. This development
can be attained through adherence to oaths of office sworn by public office holders.
When the public office holders do not adhere to their oath of office, there will be public
corruption, which is one of the main reasons for the development of poverty and under
development in the country. It has become a stumbling block to the people’s enjoyment
of the economic and social fruits of democracy.
Oath taking has become a religious cancer eating deep into the entire fabric of our
government lives. Thousands of Nigerians take oath of office and yet purposely and with
impunity, ruin the economy of the nation through financial embezzlement. Through such
acts, our nation development is retarded and delayed for centuries. 26 Nigeria has gradually
become a nation where individuals mistrust themselves and others. This mutual mistrust
is responsible for our attitude towards oath taking. People who are truthful need no oath;
they lead harmonious and highly humanizing lives. People who claim “divine”
responsibility for the moral formation of others now find themselves entangled in
39
litigation and counter litigations in secular courts. If people say “yes” when they mean
yes, oath taking which comes from the evil one would not now have been their
psychology for mutual mistrust. Oath taking has not affected the desire truthfulness in
Nigeria; on the contrary, it has given room for the perpetuation of many vices27.
Not only government functionaries alone are responsible for corruption in their
societies, government as institutions of power are themselves involved in corruption
when the engage in patron-clients relationship in which they state as the patron allocates
existing and newly created rights to private agents in exchange for a share of the rent
accruing from the private agents’ use of these assests.28 Since politics and Economics are
inter wined, Nigerian politics had become transformed into a system in which politicians
and their protégés found it difficult to resist the temptation to use the public purse to
feature private nests.29
However, Nigeria situation was so bad that Larry Diamond remarked thus about
Shagari’s regime:
“The character of political leadership was also a problem. It would have been
difficult even for the strongest and most heroic leaders to contain violence and
corruption generated by the high structural premium on state power. But
President Shagari never put that proposition to a test. A weak leader prone to
governing by consensus, he was unable to control the renal tendencies of his
party machinery and closet advisers. The meeting of his cabinet and party council
became grand bazaars where the resources of the state were put up for
auction”.30
40
His (Shagari) regime was overthrown by the military, due to the grave economic
predicament which the corrupt leadership has imposed on the nation’s economy. Nigeria
from time of democracy, her economy has been mismanaged, there is an inadequacy of
food at reasonable prices, and we have become a debtor and a beggar nation. Our
education system is deteriorating at an alarming rate; unemployment figures including the
graduates have reached embarrassing and unacceptable proportions.
In Nigeria, like all developed nations of Africa, 90% of our citizens are interested
in meeting their biological and social needs-food, shelter, education, health, urban and
rural roads, electricity and water supply. 31 These are things that make life meaningful to
the people and over which they spend all their income. These however are the budgets of
all the States and Local Government, these are the goods and services which every
successive government since independence always promised to provide. 32 But
unfortunately these promises are still left unfulfilled due to their deliberate blindness to
the oath of office they sworn before they assumed office. The citizens are then left alone
to meet a substantial part of their biological and social needs which needs which are
taken as given in any civilized society from their private income which again is not
sufficient to meet these compulsory obligations.33
This, however, has led to an uncloseable gap between economic and social wage
in Nigeria. Of course, the wider the gap, the poorer the people become. Thus, corruption
in public management cleans up the plate leaving the citizenry empty-handed or with
only the crumbs and leftovers.34
41
4.4 Effects of the Adherence to the Oath of Office
Oath taking is a religious phenomenon which has produced for Nigeria secular
government needs not get itself mixed up with it. 35 Good constitution which does not
discriminate against any citizen or ethnic group can help to regulate the Nigerian legal
system and liberate it from all forms of mutual deception.
There is need for a functional legal system whose interpretation would be beyond
the comprehension of the average citizen. When, for example, the Nigerian constitution
was drawn up by Nigerians from different walks of life, ‘legal luminaries ought not to
have subsequently masqueraded the simple message in their own legal jargons and thus
create for themselves the monopoly of the interpretation of our common heritage. The
law should be brought to the reach of the average citizen. 36 Thus, the effects of the
adherence to the oaths of office will lead to the following:
The leadership position would be assumed with the aim of serving the general
interest of the people and not ones interest or one’s minority group, that is, family,
religion, tribe and town. This in essence, means would be an end or a noticeable
reduction in tribalism, favoritism and nepotism. This would enhance even development in
the nation. Social amenities, health facilities, good education, job opportunities, would be
the other of the day.37
Economically, adherence to the oath of office would create a chaos –free
environment that will encourage foreign investors to consider Nigeria as a fertile land to
invest in. Thus, the image of the nation will receive a positive boost from the
international eyes and jobs will be created for qualified Nigerians, thereby, improving the
42
standard of living of the people and helping the nation to rise out of abject poverty.
Moreover, everybody will put the welfare of one another in mind. This definitely will
remove greed, anger and pre-conceived ideas from the minds of individuals, giving room
to free and fair judiciary.
Again, loyalty to the purposes, values and principles for these public office
holders were elected will be achieved. This is because they will at all times discharge
their duties and regulates their conducts with the interest of Nigeria and her people.
Besides, the State will be able to give appropriate sanction to every offending citizen
without ethnic, religious, or personality discrimination. And this in return will produce a
state or national impetus for truthfulness, faithfulness and true nationalism. 38 The public
office holders will be impartial in the performance of their official duties. They will
always act with objectivity and professionalism. They will ensure that expression of
personal view and convictions does not compromise the performance of their official
duties or the interests of the Nigerian nation. They will not act in a way that unjustifiably
could lead to actual or perceived preferential treatment for or against particular
individuals or groups.39
Furthermore, they will maintain standards of integrity, that is, honesty,
truthfulness, fairness and incorruptibility in all matters affecting their official duties and
Nigeria as a whole. The public office holders will become accountable for their decision
and actions when they adhere to the oath of office they took. They will submit themselves
to the scrutiny and healthy criticisms of the opposing parties, knowing fully well that they
have nothing to hide. If Nigeria as a whole, should be sincere in whatever we do, there
will be a chance to creating confidence in ourselves, establish a level-playing field for
43
everybody to practice what he or she is best suited to do. In this way we will be able to
launch the required offensive against that great cankerworm “corruption”, which has
eaten so deep into the fabric of the society, private sector organizations inclusive which
sometimes induce corruption in the public sector in order to fulfill their private profit
agenda.40
As a public office holder, one has to be loyal not only to the people he is
representing but also the Chief Executives that is the governor or the president either
directly or indirectly through the boss in each and every unit of authority exercised on
behalf of the Chief Executive. The Yoruba puts the matter beautifully “ ti a ba ran ni nise
eru, a fi je to mo”, which literally means that if you are sent on an unpleasant mission,
you have to accomplish the mission in a pleasant way so as to cushion the effects of the
unpleasantness. This in essence, is the key to the success of any organization particularly
a government business outfit. One should be loyal to the system and not to an individual,
once the trust is being betrayed, your loyalty to the mass will no more be valid or else
you will run foul of the law and you will be committing an illegality. That is why your
oath of office enjoins you to discard personal interest where it conflicted with public
interest.41
Let us presume that the individual Nigerian citizen is truthful and reliable until he
proves himself otherwise in the new era of moral regeneration that puts an end to the
psychology of mutual mistrust. Nigerians who abuse the position of trust should not only
be punished for their offences, they should also be black-listed from holding public
offices. Those who drained the national purse caused death and are still instrumental,
44
although indirectly to the deaths of many Nigerians today. If they do not suffer capital
punishment, they should not enjoy nation’s pardon.42
Finally, if the public office holders adhere to their oath of office, there would be
respect for human life, thus protect the human rights. This is because the incessant
killings that pervade elections in Nigeria, making politics a do or die affair will be
eradicated, because the public office holders will relinquish decision power to the
electorate who will decide who to rule them. Thus, making elections in Nigeria free and
fair, and the Nigeria politics a clean game and not a dirty game. Hence, it fits to subsume
that adherence to the oaths of office would not only enhance rapid development in
Nigeria, it would also be the panacea needed to put an end to the epidemic outbreak of
corruption in the nation.
4.4 Conclusion
Politics, which is the activities associated with the government of a country or
other areas, especially the debate or conflict among individuals or parties having or
hoping to achieve power, has been practiced in Nigeria as a do or die affair. It is
discussed in this chapter that the platform politics in Nigeria would become a live affair,
when there is absolute adherence to the oaths of office taken by public office holders
before assuming their official duties.
When public office holders adhere to their oaths of office, corruption, whose basis
is “belly-politicking”, will become a thing of the past as rapid development will be the
signature of the public office holders, tribalism, nepotism, and favoritism will be
eradicated. There would be fairness in justice, peace and serenity will be the order of the
45
day as the wish of the people who are the electorate would be respected thus, to ensuring
a free and fair election in Nigeria. This will invariably improve the opinions of the entire
world about the Nigeria nation.
Conclusively, this chapter of this research work has attempted to discuss what
politics is and how it has been practiced in Nigeria in time past. It also discussed the role
of oath taking in Nigeria politics. However, the effects of oath taking on the development
of Nigeria that the adherence to the oath of office by public office holders has also been
enumerated in this chapter. Some of them are the demise of tribalism, nepotism and
favoritism. There would be free and fair election which eradicates the mentality that
politics is a do or die affair. Hence, in Nigeria where public office holders adhere to the
oaths of office they have taken will be a peaceful and stable environment where
economic, social and religious activities can go on without fear or rancor.
46
Endnotes
1. Politics retrieved at http://www.google.com/url?q=what is politics. Accessed,
12th of September, 2014
2. Politics, retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/politics Accessed, 12th of
September, 2014.
3. Politics ,retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/politics... Accessed, 12th of
September, 2014.
4. Yoruba Religious Belief, retrieved at http://www.yorubadiary.com Accessed, 12th
of September, 2014.
5. A. Ujo Abudlhamid, Understanding Democracy and Politics (Kaduna: Joyce
Graphic Printers & publishers, 2004), 57.
6. A. UJo Abudlhamid, Understanding Democracy and Politics (Kaduna: Joyce
7. A. Ujo Abudlhamid, Understanding Democracy and Politics (Kaduna: Joyce
8. O.O. Familusi, Towards A Religious Alternative To political God fatherism in
Nigeria,, Religion and Governance in Nigeria (Ibadan: Department of Religious
studies, University of Ibadan. 2012), 438.
9. Godfatherism, retrieved at http://www.nairaland.com/1091521godfatherism-
nigeria-politics. Accessed, 13th September, 2014.
47
10. O.O. Familusi, Towards A Religious Alternative To Political God fatherism in
Nigeria, Religion and Governance in Nigeria (Ibadan: Department of Religious
studies, University of Ibadan, 2012), 439.
11. Godfatherism, retrieved at http://www.nairaland.com/1091521godfatherism-
nigeria-politics. Accessed, 13th September, 2014.
12. Samuel Uwhejevwe-Togbolo, politics and political god-fatherism retrieved at
http://www.gamji.com/article4000/news446. Accessed 14th September, 2014
13. Jibril Ibrahim, Manifestation and Impact of Corruption on the Nigeria Society and
Sustainable Democracy: Fighting Corruption and Organized Crime in Nigeria:
Challenges for the New Millennium (Ibadan: Spectrum books Limited, 2000), 83.
14. M.T. Akinlade , M. O. Ibitoye, Introduction to Political Science (Ibadan: Bolanle
Barakat Limited, 2008), 9.
15. A. Richard, Ogunleye, Covenant-Keeping among the Yoruba people: A Critique
and Social Science. Volume 3, No9, 2012), 3.
16. M.A. Aluko, The Institutionalization of Corruption and Its Impact On Political
Culture And Behavior In Nigeria (Nordic Journal of African Studies II<3>:393-
4029, 2002), 6.
17. O.O. Familusi, Electoral Process and Moral Responsibility in Nigeria: A
Religious View Point (Orita Ibadan Journal of Religious Studies, XLIII/I,
Samprints and Graphics co, 2011), 109.
48
18. A. Richard Ogunleye, Covenant-Keeping among the Yoruba people: A Critique
of Socio-political transformation in Nigeria (International Journal of Humanities
19 A. Richard, Ogunleye, Covenant-Keeping among the Yoruba people: A Critique
20. Oladosu Olusegun, Yoruba Traditional Oath taking: A Panacea for Good
21. Oladosu Olusegun, Yoruba Traditional Oath taking: A Panacea for Good
22 A. Richard Ogunleye, Covenant-Keeping among the Yoruba people: A Critique
and Social Science. Volume3, No9, 2012), 5.
23. J.O. Arulefela, Covenant in the Old testament and in Yoruba, (Ibadan: Daystar
Press, 1988), 61.
24. Olaiya Oni, Public management in contemporary Nigeria (Akure: Flocel Press,
2010), 36.
25. DR. Noibi M. A. Political Corruption and the Nigerian democratic Environment:
The Role of Religion (Ondo: Department of Religion and African Culture,
Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba Akoko, 2011), 11.
49
26. Ilesanmi T. M, Oath Taking as the psychology of Mutual Mistrust in Nigeria
(Orita Ibadan Journal of Religious Studies XXXVI/1-2, 2004),131.
27. Ilesanmi T. M, Oath Taking as the psychology of Mutual Mistrust in Nigeria
(Orita Ibadan Journal of Religious Studies XXXVI/1-2, 2004), 131.
28. Segun Odunuga, The Impact of Corruption and Organized Crime on Nigeria’s
Economy and Economic Development: Fighting Corruption and Organized Crime
in Nigeria: Challenges for the New Millennium (Ibadan: Spectrum books Limited,
2000), 58.
29. Segun Odunuga, The Impact of Corruption and Organized Crime on Nigeria’s
Economy and Economic Development: Fighting Corruption and Organized Crime
in Nigeria: Challenges for the New Millennium (Ibadan: Spectrum books Limited,
2000), 61.
30. Larry Diamond cited by Segun Odunuga The Impact of Corruption and
Organized Crime on Nigeria’s Economy and Economic Development: Fighting
Corruption and Organized Crime in Nigeria : Challenges for the New Millennium
(Ibadan Spectrum books Limited, 2000), 62.
31. Olaiya Oni, Public Management in Contemporary Nigeria (Akure: Flocel Press,
2010), 43.
2010), 31.
2010), 64.
50
2010), 62.
35. T.M. Ilesanmi, Oath Taking as the psychology of Mutual Mistrust in Nigeria
(Orita: Ibadan Journal of Religious Studies XXXVI/1-2, 2004), 131.
37. Putting Ethics to Work: A guide for the UN Staff retrieved at
http://www.un.org/en/ethics 15th September 2014.
39. Putting ethics to work: A guide for the UN Staff retrieved at
http://www.un.org/en/ethics 15th September 2014.
2010), 116.
2010), 121.
51
CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
5.1 Conclusion
This research work does not seek to condemn any form of government, it
illustrates oath taking and the role it plays in Nigerian politics, while at the same time
discuss what politics in Nigeria is all about. The literature reviewed in the course of this
work, has highlighted the cause of corruption in Nigeria. It furthermore explained what
oath taking is all about and the various types of oath. It was also made known in this
research work that before corruption and slow rate of development can be eradicated in
Nigeria, there is the need for public office holders to adhere to the oaths of office they
took, which is that, they discharge their duties without fear and rancor.
A thorough analysis of oath reveals that it is a solemn declaration to do
something, whose purpose is to ensure truthfulness, accountability and fairness in a
nation as vast as Nigeria. It will however bring about even development, landmark
achievement and several developmental programs to mention but a few. Economically,
adherence to oath of office would create a chaos-free environment that will encourage
foreign investors to consider Nigeria as a fertile land to invest in. The political
environment of Nigeria was also discussed in this research work. The role of oath taking
in politics is to ignite the conscience of public office holders as it is a pledge of loyalty to
perform faithfully, the duties associated with their office. Everybody will put the welfare
of one another in mind, which will remove greed, anger and preconceived ideas from the
minds of individuals, giving room to free and fair judiciary.
52
5.2 Findings
Having critically examined the oath taking and its place in politics with reference
to the Nigerian government, in relation to the public officers who secures his or her
position through a mandate freely given by the people of a geographical area- Local,
State or Federal to represent their interest within a period. It was also observed within the
context of submission that an oath of office is a solemn promise that is legally binding,
administered by an officer of law, an approved officer of the profession, club or group,
the Head of States, governors and any approved and appointed officer of repute.
However, it has been observed that usually during political campaigns, the
prospective gives a list of the things that he or she will handle if given mandate. After
securing such a mandate and after assuming the political position, they renegade on their
promises. Unfortunately, these promises are left unfulfilled due to their deliberate
blindness to the oath of office they sworn before they assumed office. Nigerians
especially public office holders have made the oath of office a frivolous undertaking as
most of them commit crimes and barefaced corruption against the State without qualms
of conscience. This is outright perjury, but the law lacks the bite to persecute them. They
take oath of office in the name of God, witnesses in courts lie profusely haven taken or
sworn to an oath with the Bible or Quran. it has been observed that Nigerians do not fear
God Almighty or that they are taking His compassionate nature for granted.
Finally, it has been observed that oath is a political, social, religious and economic
humdinger. The man or woman who takes an oath of office or upon whom an oath of
53
office is administered or devoted is statutorily obligated to carry out his functions or
duties to the spirit of the letter of the oath of office.
5.3 Recommendations
Since it is given, that three major religions are practiced in Nigeria that is the
Christianity, Islam and African Traditional Religion- our indigenous religion. And it is
generally believed that Christians and Muslims God gives room for forgiveness by
deferring judgment to a latter day called judgment day. In the light of this, what is the
way forward to re-entrenching probity in our leadership and national life? I beg to
suggest that public office holders, who are likely to be Bible or Quran compliant, through
investigation, should be made to swear or take oath of office by Ogun, or Olokun and
other local deities. This is because it is a known fact that African gods deliver
instantaneous judgments on people who do not keep their parts of oath taken. This in
essence is not to deny public office holders their rights to life, it is to make them wake up
to the call of duty and at the same time reduce the influx of belly politicians into politics
in Nigeria, thus, making the Nigerian nation a corruption-free polity. Experience has
shown that a vest majority of Nigerians are only sunken in splendiferous of religious
doctrines. They only pray for money by any means and once they find themselves up
there in public office, they see it as a God/Allah sent opportunity.
It is clear in essence to say that traditional oath taking plays a vital role in the
governance of this country if allowed by political leaders. It is a means through which
54
cultural values can be improved upon and serve as a podium through which religio-
cultural ethics can be instilled to caution our leaders in their acts of governance.
The adoption of traditional oath taking for public officers serves as an urgent need
to correct societal and moral decadences in Nigeria’s public services. It explores the
importance of African culture and also draws the attention to aspects of the country’s
culture that in turn provide answers to factors militating against Nigeria’s economic
development and growth. Our culture promotes values such as honesty, diligence and
hard work, however, it is lamentable that this values which are part of our indigenous
lifestyles are now replaced with the culture of impunity and laziness. We attach little or
no importance to our promises irrespective of our beliefs. We do this to our peril and at a
great cost to the progress of our people and country.
The solution to the impact of corruption and other vices affecting the country’s
socio-economic and political life lies in the promotion of the positive aspects of the
country’s culture. When we draw useful lessons from our cultural practices, that is our
indigenous religion; we can be sure that our situation would change for the better. Today,
many people no longer respect and keep commitments and allegiance, not only in
leadership positions, but also in all aspects of life. The choice of objects of modern faiths
for oath taking by most people is driven by their delayed retribution compared with those
taken with objects of traditional religion whose consequences are believed to be
immediately.
55
5.4 Summary
Oath taking which is an integral part of religions in the world is an inevitable
aspect of politics. There are various types of oath taking but the one that is the bane of
discussion in this research work is the Oath of office which must be sworn by public
office holders before assuming duties. It is unfortunate that politics in Nigeria is clothed
in a garment of do or die. It has, has it basis of god-fatherism which is the kind of
relationship in which the political sponsor becomes the elected by proxy, thus dictating
the tune of the music.
This research work has shown that to have a corruption free political environment
in Nigeria, public office holder’s have to adhere to the oath of office they have taken and
this inevitably will lead to a free and fair election, fair judicially, even development, on
unhindered economic activities has the society will be peaceful. Thus, encouraging
economic activities and it would increase the standard of living of Nigerians.
Hence, this research work recommends that; to ensure adherence to the oath of
office, public office holders are to be compelled to swear their oath by invoking an
African god, preferably “Ogun” the god of iron among the Yoruba which is acclaimed to
be a no nonsense god who delivers instantaneous judgment. The fear of death is a
common phenomenon among the principal stakeholder of the society, taking oath
traditionally will also help them to keep their promises during their tenure of office. It
will also serve as a medium of checks and balances, and a standard that will help the
society and the community to grow rapidly. Thus, the observed result can then be
discussed in future research works.
56
BIBLOGRAPHY
Abudlhamid Ujo A, Understanding Democracy and Politics (Kaduna: Joyce RS &
publishers, 2004).
Akinlade M.T, Ibitoye M O, Introduction to Political Science (Ibadan: Bolanle Barakat
Limited, 2008).
Anulefela J. O, Covenants in the Old Testament and in Yoruba land (Ibadan: Daystar
Press, 1988).
Dr. Noibi M. A, Political Corruption and the Nigerian democratic Environment: The
Role of Religion (Ondo: Department of Religion and African Culture, Adekunle
Ajasin University Akungba Akoko, 2011).
Familusi O.O, Religion and Governance in Nigeria (Ibadan: Department of Religious
studies, University of Ibadan, 2012).
Olaiya Oni, Public management in contemporary Nigeria (Akure: Flocel Press, 2010).
Segun Odunuga Fighting Corruption and Organized Crime in Nigeria:
Challenges for the new Millennium (Ibadan Spectrum books Limited, 2000).
57
JOURNALS
Ahmed Babatunde Adeosun; Nigeria @50: “The role of good governance and effective
Public administration towards achieved Economic growth and stability in
fledging Democracy (International Journal of Politics and Good Governance
vol.3, No 3.3, Quarter III, 2012).
Aluko M.A.O, The Institutionalization of Corruption and its Impact on Political culture
and Behavior in Nigeria (Nordic Journal of African Studies 11 (3): 393-402,
2002).
Chris Iwejuo Nwagboso, Otu Duke, Nigeria and the challenge of Leadership in the 21 st
century (International Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences Volume 2, No.
13, 2012).
Familusi O. O, Electoral Process and Moral Responsibility In Nigeria: A Religious View
Point (Orita Ibadan Journal Of Religious Studies, XLIII/I, Samprints and
Graphics co, 2011).
Ogunleye, A. Richard; Covenant keeping among the Yoruba people: A critique of socio-
political Transportation Nigeria (International Journal of Humanities and Social
Science Volume 3 No 9, 2012).
DICTIONARIES
Hornsby A.S, Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary of Current English, 6th Edition
(New York: Oxford University Press, 2000).
58
ONLINE SOURCES
C. Stuart Gilman, Ethics codes and codes of conduct for promoting an ethical and
professional public service: comparative successes and lessons. Retrieved at
http://www.oecd.org/mena.../35521418.pdf Accessed, 06/09/2014
Effects of Oaths, retrieved at http://www.mbaoath.org/forum. Accessed 6/9/2014
Godwin Ijediogor and Samson Ezea, Nigerian Politics and Oath taking. Retrieved at
http://www.nigerianbestforum.com/index.php?topic=36767 Accessed 17/10/2014
Godfatherism, retrieved at http://www.nairaland.com/1091521godfatherism-nigeria-
politics. Accessed, 13th September, 2014.
Oaths in Christianity Retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath. accessed
29/08/2014
Oaths in Christianity, Retrieved at www.reformed.org/webfiles/antithesis/index.html!?
mainframe=/webfiles/antithesis/v1n_1/ant_v1n1_oaths.html Accessed, 29/08/2014
Oaths in Islam, retrieved at
www.answering-islam,org/Muhammad/inconsistent/oath_making.html
Purpose of oath taking, retrieved at www.justice.qld.gov.au/_ips accessed, 27/ 11/2014
Politics, retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/politics Accessed, 12th of September,
2014.
Putting Ethics To Work: A guide for the UN Staff retrieved at
http://www.un.org/en/ethics 15th September 2014
59
Stephen Cole J, the Christian Oath. Retrieved at http://freemasonry.bay.ca/texts/oaths-
taking Accessed 17/10/2014.
Samuel Uwhejevwe-Togbolo, politics and political god-fatherism retrieved at
http://www.gamji.com/article4000/news446. Accessed 14th September, 2014
What is Oath, retrieved at http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/oath,Accessed 27/08/2014.
What is politics? Retrieved at
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8&oe=utf-channelbrowser. Accessed 3/09/2014
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September, 2014
60

Oath Taking and Its Place in Politics

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OATH TAKING AND ITS PLACE IN POLITICS:

THE NIGERIAN EXPERIENCE

OLANIYI VICTORIA TOLULOPE

MATRIC NO: 100106018

BEING A LONG ESSAY SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF RELIGION

AND AFRICAN CULTURE, FACULTY OF ARTS, ADEKUNLE AJASIN

UNIVERSITY AKUNGBA AKOKO IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE

DEGREE IN RELIGION AND AFRICAN CULTURE.

University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria under my supervision.

MR. B.S. OGUNMOROTI DATE

DR. OGUNLEYE A. RICHARD DATE

guidance and providence throughout my academic pursuit at Adekunle Ajasin Akungba

the course of my study.

I am using this opportunity to express my gratitude to everyone who supported

issues related to this project work.

I express my warm thanks to Mr. B.S. Ogunmoroti my project supervisor, who

stimulation. I am highly grateful to him

department. More importantly, I am indebted to my parents, my sister Miss Olaniyi

Olamilekan, Miss Abass Adeyinka, Mr. Olaonipekun Olusegun, Osunwekomi

oath taking and at the same time, provoke further study.

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION..............................................................................1

1.1 Background to the study................................................................................................1

1.2 Statement of the Problem..............................................................................................3

1.3 Aims and Objectives of the Study................................................................................4

1.5 Scope and Limitation...................................................................................................5

1.6 Definition of terms........................................................................................................6

CHAPTER TWO: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE......................................9

2.1 Literature Review..........................................................................................................9

CHAPTER THREE: OATH TAKING AND POLITICS............................................16

3.1 Oath and how it is taken..............................................................................................16

3.3 Effects of Oath Taking.................................................................................................24

3.4 The Relevance of Oath Taking...................................................................................26

CHAPTER FOUR: POLITICS IN NIGERIA.............................................................33

4.1 Politics in Nigeria........................................................................................................33

4.2 Oath Taking in Nigeria Politics...................................................................................36

4.3 Effects of Corruption in Nigeria Politics.....................................................................38

4.4 Effects of the Adherence to the Oath of Office..........................................................41

CHAPTER FIVE: SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION................................................52

even at the local government level.

administrations, notable figures within the military establishment thus have a

that preceded current civilian democratic dispensation.

1.1 Background to the study

In recent years, especially in this present political, social and economic

moral and religious truth demanded by this age.3

ascending to political leadership through election rigging and genocidal political

techniques, son of soil philosophy, political of expediency, judicial fractionalization of

human beings, political self-aggrandizement, political Hitlerism as a mechanism for

retention of power, replacement of “we feeding” by “me-feeding”, uncurtailed lust of

taking bribes as precondition of performing their duties.4

people to pervert the course of justice and influence judgement.5

This aforementioned political corruption in Nigeria can be deduced to have been

An oath, according to Wikipedia, also called plight is either a statement of face or

a promise with wording relating to something considered sacred as a sign of verity. 6

as an affirmation, a good example of this, is the oath of office taken by anybody

occupying a public office.

of their god fathers who helped to install them.

rising above the state of penury.

1.3 Aims and Objectives of the Study

It is of absolute importance that public office holders’ especially Nigerian

Nigeria, many people remain indomitably committed to falsehood, unfaithfulness and to

to show that oath taking cannot be separated from politics.

politics in Nigeria and at same time provoke further research.

information would be secondary which are textbook, journals, newspapers, internet to