Experts identify causes of incivility in Africa, call for paradigm shift

Precious Ugwuzor

A group of stakeholders from various academic and professional fields have identified a number of factors that are largely responsible for the high levels of incivility prevalent in several African countries.

At a recent two-day event (May 2/3, 2024) in Abuja, organized by Etiquette Africa and managed by Etienying Akpanusong, the groundbreaking conference, themed “The Impact of Incivility on Africa’s Development,” brought together a diverse group of stakeholders together to tackle the critical problem of incivility in Africa

recognized the negative impact on individuals, businesses and the continent’s overall prosperity.

Discussants representing various sectors such as education, parenting and mentoring, leadership and business included former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili; Ambassador Usman Sarki, former Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations; former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Victor Attah; Femi Adesina former presidential spokesperson; Dr. Linus Okorie, Mrs. Eugenia Abu, top presenter and many others.

They all painted a worrying picture of declining civility across Africa and did not hesitate to identify some of the factors responsible for this phenomenon. These factors include a noticeable shift in values ​​that has led to the pervasiveness of materialism, the influence of foreign cultures and technology, especially social issues. media, because they undermine traditional values, ethics and etiquette.

Second, the panelists identified poor governance and ineffective leadership as important factors. The absence of strong, ethical leadership and a lack of accountability within leadership structures promotes a culture of incivility, they said. They added that leaders who do not embody respect and ethical behavior set a poor example and perpetuate a cycle of disrespect.

The discussants, who can best be described as experts on their rights, recognized the breakdown of the family unit as a major factor, arguing that people saw the decline in civility as a result of the declining role of parents in instilling values ​​and social graces in their children.

They argued that without a strong foundation of values ​​instilled within the family, the broader social fabric suffers, as the family represents the smallest unit of society.

After noting some of the consequences of incivility, including deterioration of physical and mental health, hindering economic growth and reputational damage to the country, among other consequences, the discussants, aware of the urgency of addressing this critical issue, outlined, a set of actionable recommendations, emphasizing a multifaceted approach.

One of the recommendations is the revitalization of education so that values-based education and social etiquette can be integrated into the formal curriculum.

They also stressed strengthening parenting and prioritizing responsible social media management, intentional mentoring and open communication within families.

The conference also recommended promoting a culture of accountability within institutions, where incivility is not tolerated and appropriate consequences are enforced.

The panelists also have, among other things, the

strengthening law enforcement and justice systems to ensure effective enforcement of laws and regulations that promote civility and discourage antisocial behavior.