The aim was to create a more efficient and transparent government, but it also served as a powerful tool for consolidating power. This decree, while seemingly innocuous, had a profound impact on the political landscape of France. It led to a significant reduction in the power of the Senate, effectively diminishing its influence and authority. The Senate, once a bastion of opposition and a check on the executive branch, was now reduced to a mere administrative body. This shift in power dynamics was a significant departure from the traditional French model of a strong Senate. The decree also had a profound impact on the French political landscape.

The Nigerian Senate, with its members earning a staggering amount of money, has become a symbol of this disconnect. The average Nigerian citizen struggles to make ends meet, facing poverty, unemployment, and inadequate access to basic necessities. This stark contrast between the opulent lifestyle of the senators and the dire realities faced by the average Nigerian is a potent symbol of the systemic inequalities that plague our society. The debate surrounding the senators’ emoluments has also highlighted the lack of accountability and transparency in the Nigerian political system. The public outcry against the exorbitant salaries and allowances has exposed the lack of trust in the government and its institutions. This lack of trust has further fueled the anger and frustration of the Nigerian people, who feel unheard and ignored by their leaders.

These leaders, despite their immense influence, chose to live simply and prioritize the people’s needs. Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violent resistance, also known as Satyagraha, was a cornerstone of his leadership. Satyagraha emphasized the power of truth and non-violent action to achieve social change. It was a powerful tool for challenging unjust laws and systems, and it was used to achieve significant social and political reforms in India.

This approach, he believed, would prevent corruption and foster a more representative government. Awolowo’s vision was to create a system where lawmakers were not detached from the people they represent, but rather, were actively engaged in their lives and concerns. Awolowo’s belief in the importance of public service and the common good resonated with many Nigerians. His vision for a representative government, grounded in the principles of social justice and economic equality, was widely embraced.