LOCKED DOORS AND CLOSED MINDS: POLITICAL FATIGUE IN QUEEN ELIZABETH

Political Apathy has become a prevalent issue in modern societies where a good number of the population show disinterest and indifference towards political matters thereby affecting democratic systems, hindering progress, and undermining the representation of the people. When a significant portion of the population remains apathetic toward politics, the democratic process loses its legitimacy.

In this bustling world of academic activities, there is a storm of missed opportunities, untapped potential, and silenced voices.

 

Queen Elizabeth II Hall, University of Ibadan, houses over 2000 female students in the university. Students from different departments and faculties coexist as they pursue their academic goals. Despite the potential for vibrant political discourse, many occupants of the hall display a lack of interest in the political affairs of the hall, especially the call to serve.

Are there any deeper reasons that are present in the life situation of the occupants of the hall that actively encourage political disengagement and apathy? A simple question remains unanswered. Queen Elizabeth II Hall has suffered from this menace and the just concluded electoral activities stand as living proof of this cankerworm.

 

One important example of politics in the hall that has suffered indifference and quality action is the dutiful role and call to service. The executive council of the hall should consist of eight positions. During the last election, six of these positions were unopposed. This has become a worrisome trend in the hall.

 

What is responsible for this trend of apathy in activities concerning the hall? What can be done to fix it and what measures can be put in place to ensure it doesn't return?

 

Mariam, a 300-level student of the Faculty of Law says that in her opinion, finances and insufficient time to juggle education and politics are the two main reasons why she feels less interested in hall politics. She also adds: "If I'm doing anything, it has to be perfect. And being perfect in politics means I may not be able to give sufficient time to my studies."

 

Also, in an interview with Glory, a 300-level Guidance and Counselling, Faculty of Education, she states: "What do Queenites stand to gain? You cannot use this politics to get a job. There is practically nothing to gain aside from popularity. I would not even advise anyone to jeopardize their academics if they really don't have the strength for politics. Politics is draining and it's meant for those who have strength for it."

 

With less involvement in political affairs, are Queenites not moved to settle for the available candidates without proper scrutiny of manifestoes and the absence of other options to choose from?

 

This piece concludes with a discussion about widening and broadening the conception of politics in the hall. A vibrant democracy relies on an active and engaged populace. When people become disinterested in political leadership, it weakens the level of productivity and causes erosion of Democracy.