
In the digital age, where information travels at the speed of light, the role of effective communication in governance cannot be overemphasized. Yet, a troubling trend persists in Nigerian political discourse: the dismissive defense of political leaders’ inability to articulate themselves in English with the phrase, “Na grammar we go chop?” This question, often posed rhetorically, is not just a deflection; it is a symptom of a deeper problem that undermines the essence of leadership, governance, and national representation.
A recent example is the case of Hon. Adigun Abass, a member of the House of Representatives representing Ibadan North-East/South-East Federal Constituency in Oyo State. A video circulating on social media showed him struggling to articulate a motion during a House session. Rather than acknowledging the importance of clear communication in legislative duties, some of his supporters resorted to cyberbullying critics and deploying the tired excuse, “Na grammar we go chop?” This defense is as flawed as it is shortsighted.
Without a doubt, English is Nigeria’s official language. While the nation boasts over 500 languages, English serves as the linguistic bridge for governance, education, and diplomacy. For a lawmaker, proficiency in English is not a luxury but a necessity. The legislative process involves advocacy, negotiation, and debate, all of which require clear and effective communication.
In lawmaking, ideas and arguments must be presented persuasively to secure consensus or support for motions and bills. A leader who struggles to articulate thoughts risks losing credibility among peers and failing to advance the interests of their constituents. Beyond legislative chambers, when a leader represents Nigeria on the global stage, English becomes the medium through which the country’s positions are conveyed. Thus, poor communication skills reflect not just on the individual but on the nation as a whole.
In fact, the inability to communicate effectively in English speaks volumes about the governance culture in Nigeria. Governance is built on the principles of accountability, transparency, and engagement. For these principles to thrive, leaders must communicate clearly with the public and stakeholders. When leaders struggle with the basics of articulation, it raises questions about their preparedness, competence, and commitment to their roles.
Without any iota of exaggeration, good communication fosters trust. It reassures citizens that their leaders understand the issues at hand and have the intellectual capacity to address them. Conversely, when a leader stumbles through speeches, it erodes confidence and reinforces negative stereotypes about political officeholders being unqualified or indifferent.
On the international stage, a political leader is an ambassador of his or her country. Whether at United Nations assemblies, bilateral meetings, or international forums, the ability to articulate ideas in clear and polished English significantly affects perceptions of Nigeria. In a world where diplomacy and negotiation often hinge on effective communication, a leader’s inability to express himself or herself adequately can result in missed opportunities and diminished influence.
Therefore, countries are often judged by the eloquence and composure of their representatives. Imagine the impression created when a leader cannot deliver a coherent speech or engage meaningfully in discussions. It is not merely about grammar but about the ability to inspire confidence, convey complex ideas, and negotiate effectively.
Given the foregoing, it is not out of place to opine in this context that the argument that “Na grammar we go chop?” trivializes the importance of communication. While it is true that governance ultimately hinges on delivering tangible benefits to the populace, communication is the vehicle through which those benefits are explained, justified, and implemented. Therefore, policies must be articulated, and their impact must be communicated to citizens. In fact, the inability to do so creates a disconnect between government and the governed.
Furthermore, the dismissal of criticism with such a phrase fosters a culture of mediocrity. It sends a message that competence is optional and that leaders can get away with subpar performance as long as they deliver material benefits. This mindset is dangerous because it lowers the standards of leadership and discourages accountability.
Without a doubt, the recurring issue of leaders struggling with basic communication reflects systemic flaws in Nigeria’s political recruitment process. Leadership should not be an afterthought or a reward for loyalty but a responsibility entrusted to those with the requisite skills, knowledge, and character. Political parties must prioritize capacity-building and ensure that candidates meet minimum standards of competence before fielding them for public office.
Additionally, there is a need for continuous professional development for public officeholders. Communication is a skill that can be honed, and leaders should be encouraged to invest in improving their proficiency in English and other relevant skills. Such initiatives would enhance their effectiveness in governance and elevate the quality of public discourse.
From my vantage point as a journalist who has interacted with leaders across various sectors, I find the “Na grammar we go chop?” defense particularly troubling because it reflects a collective resignation to mediocrity. Leadership is not merely about distributing resources or implementing policies; it is about inspiring a vision and rallying people toward common goals. This requires eloquence, clarity, and conviction, qualities that cannot thrive in the absence of effective communication.
In societies where leadership is held to high standards, public officials who fail to communicate effectively are either compelled to improve or step aside. Nigeria must adopt a similar stance if it hopes to nurture a culture of excellence in governance. The electorate has a role to play by demanding higher standards from their leaders and refusing to settle for less.
Asking, “Na grammar we go chop?” whenever a political leader struggles with speech delivery is an ill-conceived defense that trivializes the importance of communication in governance. English, as Nigeria’s official language, is an indispensable tool for lawmaking, diplomacy, and public engagement. Leaders who fail to communicate effectively undermine their own credibility and that of the nation they represent.
Rather than dismissing criticism, supporters of such leaders should encourage them to improve their communication skills. This is not about perfection but about striving for competence and ensuring that Nigeria’s representatives are equipped to engage meaningfully both at home and abroad. In a world where perception matters as much as reality, the ability to articulate ideas clearly and confidently is not a luxury but a necessity. For Nigeria to progress, mediocrity in leadership must be confronted and replaced with a commitment to excellence.