2025 in Retrospect: A Year Defined by Defiance and the Complexities of Political Loyalty

The year 2025 has etched itself into the annals of Nigerian history as a period characterized by a pervasive spirit of defiance, transitioning seamlessly from the street slang "No gree for anybody" of the previous year to a more hardened, systemic resistance. This ethos, initially a colloquial expression of resilience, metastasized into a defining feature of national engagement, influencing everything from interpersonal conflicts to high-stakes governance. The political and social landscape of the year mirrored the tension of a schoolyard standoff, where authority was constantly tested and the lines between lawful order and oppressive command became increasingly blurred. This atmosphere of nonconformity was not merely a reaction to economic hardship but a fundamental shift in the psyche of the citizenry and the political class alike, creating a volatile environment where silence was no longer an option and neutrality was seen as complicity.

Central to the year's unfolding drama was the complex interplay of loyalty and survival within the corridors of power. The metaphorical "omorogun"—the turning stick used in preparing meals—served as a poignant symbol for those caught in the crossfire of "big men's" battles. Just as the stick is plunged into hot water to perform its duty, many subordinates found themselves bearing the brunt of conflicts initiated by their principals. A notable instance involving a confrontation between a federal minister and a military officer underscored this dynamic. The incident, which sparked national debate regarding military superiority and civilian oversight, highlighted the precarious position of aides and security personnel who must navigate the treacherous waters of obedience to authority versus self-preservation. The wisdom of the minister’s aide, who advised against intervening in the squabbles of the elite, resonated deeply with a populace weary of being collateral damage in political feuds.

The security situation in the country remained a grim backdrop to these political theatrics. Despite the relentless efforts of the armed forces, the bloodshed continued unabated in various regions. The designation of Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" by foreign powers, citing religious persecution, added a layer of international diplomatic strain. Attacks in Borno and the Federal Capital Territory early in the year, followed by brazen assaults on worshippers in Kwara State, painted a picture of a nation under siege. The government's response, including coordinated airstrikes against terrorist enclaves, demonstrated a resolve to meet force with force, yet the persistence of these threats raised uncomfortable questions about the efficacy of a purely kinetic approach to security. The defiance of the insurgents matched the "no gree for anybody" mood of the nation, creating a cycle of violence that defied easy resolution.

In the political arena, the opposition party found itself embroiled in an existential crisis that defied competent description. The People's Democratic Party (PDP), once a formidable machine, fractured under the weight of internal dissent and conflicting ambitions. The rift between the Oyo State Governor and his erstwhile ally, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, exemplified the fragility of political alliances. Accusations of betrayal and counter-accusations of financial impropriety flew freely, turning party meetings into chaotic spectacles reminiscent of professional wrestling matches. This infighting not only weakened the opposition but also distracted from the pressing business of governance, leaving the electorate to wonder if their leaders were more interested in settling personal scores than in addressing the myriad challenges facing the nation.

The ripples of defiance extended beyond politics into the cultural and traditional spheres. The succession struggle for the throne of a prominent traditional ruler in Ijebuland took dramatic twists, with celebrated figures facing opposition from their own lineage. Similarly, the public burial rites of a revered monarch, which departed from tradition in favor of religious observance, sparked intense debate about the preservation of cultural heritage in a modernizing world. These events underscored a broader societal questioning of established norms, where even the sanctity of tradition was not immune to the pervasive spirit of challenge and re-evaluation that defined the year.

Economic policies also faced the scrutiny of a restless population. The significant hike in passport fees, interpreted by many as a subtle measure to curb the wave of emigration known as "japa," failed to deter desperate citizens. The determination to seek greener pastures remained unshaken, serving as the ultimate vote of no confidence in the domestic economy. Furthermore, the introduction of new tax reforms ignited widespread anxiety, with citizens questioning the utilization of the funds extracted from their already depleted pockets. The budget deficit looming over the approaching year served as a stark reminder of the fiscal precipice on which the nation stood, further fueling the skepticism with which government pronouncements were received.

The year also witnessed the tragic end of a military general, whose capture and execution by insurgents sent shockwaves through the military hierarchy and the general public. The incident was a grim reminder of the high cost of the ongoing insurgency and the vulnerability of even the most protected figures. Simultaneously, the conclusion of a high-profile treason trial involving a separatist leader brought a temporary legal closure to a long-standing agitation, yet the underlying sentiments of marginalization and the demand for self-determination remained simmering beneath the surface. The swift reversal of a controversial presidential pardon following public backlash demonstrated the growing power of public opinion in checking executive excesses, a rare bright spot in a year of tumult.

As the nation looks toward 2026, the lessons of 2025 remain stark. The "no gree for anybody" ethos has evolved from a slogan into a survival strategy, influencing how Nigerians interact with authority and with each other. The adage "madness is cured with madness" has seemingly been adopted as a national doctrine, suggesting a future where confrontation rather than dialogue may continue to be the primary currency of social and political exchange. The experiences of the past year have laid bare the fragility of institutions and the volatility of a society where the social contract is frayed, leaving both the leaders and the led to navigate a path forward in an increasingly uncertain world.