REUEL NAFISU : Political Interference on Cultural Development a Catalyst for Cultural Backwardness

Culture, often described as the soul of a society, encompasses the traditions, customs, languages, and arts that define a people. It is a dynamic entity that evolves with time, adapting to societal changes and global influences. However, when political agendas interfere with cultural development, the consequences can be detrimental, leading to cultural stagnation or even regression.

Political interference in culture manifests in various forms, including censorship, favoritism towards certain cultural groups, manipulation of historical narratives, and the imposition of ideologies that serve political objectives rather than cultural enrichment. Governments and political actors, driven by the desire to consolidate power or control public opinion, often meddle in cultural expressions, stifling creativity and authentic representation.

Political interference often leads to the prioritization of certain cultural elements over others, eroding the diversity and authenticity of a society's cultural heritage. For instance, governments may promote dominant or politically aligned cultural expressions while marginalizing minority traditions, resulting in the gradual disappearance of unique cultural identities. When political agendas dictate what can or cannot be expressed, artists, writers, and performers face restrictions that stifle creativity. This censorship undermines the role of culture as a medium for free expression and social critique, reducing it to a tool of propaganda. Politicians often rewrite or manipulate historical accounts to fit their agendas. Such distortion not only misleads the public but also creates a skewed understanding of cultural heritage, depriving future generations of a truthful and comprehensive account of their history. Political actors may resist cultural modernization and globalization, perceiving them as threats to their authority. This resistance often leads to an artificial preservation of outdated practices while ignoring the natural evolution of culture, resulting in cultural backwardness.

In December 2024, the Jhar Unity Nationwide organized a highly anticipated cultural festival in Dass,

Bauchi State. This event was meant to celebrate the rich heritage and traditions of the Jhar people during the festive holiday period, a time when families return to their roots. Unfortunately, the festival was abruptly postponed, and the reason given has sparked widespread outrage. The Bauchi State governor, through the King of Dass, ordered the postponement, citing his inability to attend due to a tight schedule. This excuse—that the festival had to wait for the governor’s convenience—is both unreasonable and deeply unfair. Cultural festivals are organized for the people, not for political leaders. The postponement has deprived many individuals of the opportunity to connect with their cultural roots during the holidays, a period most conducive for such gatherings.

This incident exemplifies blatant political interference. The governor’s insistence on prioritizing his personal schedule over a community’s cultural celebration demonstrates how political interests can undermine the very essence of culture. Such actions send a disheartening message—that political authority trumps communal well-being and traditions. Culture thrives in an environment of freedom, diversity, and innovation. Political interference, however, disrupts this natural evolution, often resulting in cultural backwardness. The postponement of the Jhar Cultural Festival is a stark reminder of how political interests can infringe on cultural practices, turning celebrations of heritage into tools of political convenience. To ensure the flourishing of cultures worldwide, societies must advocate for the separation of political interests from cultural development, thereby safeguarding the integrity and richness of their heritage. By addressing political interference, humanity can preserve its diverse cultural tapestry for future generations.

Reuel Nafisu.......

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