ABSTRACT

This paper delves into the pervasive issue of executive impunity and rascality within Nigeria's government, dissecting its historical roots, causes, and far-reaching consequences. Drawing parallels with historical instances of unchecked executive power, such as King Henry VIII's reign in England and the French Revolution, the study examines Nigeria's own dark chapter under General Sani Abacha's military rule. Weak institutions, lack of transparency, and absence of accountability emerge as key catalysts for executive impunity, with the judiciary's ineffectiveness and governmental opacity exacerbating the problem. Moreover, the paper outlines the detrimental effects of executive impunity on Nigerian society, including widespread distrust, winner-takes-all mentality, the perpetuation of "it is my turn" syndrome (Emilokan), vote buying/election rigging, etc. Through a multi-faceted approach encompassing electoral and judicial reforms, bolstering civil society, promoting civic education, and international support, the paper proposes avenues to curb executive impunity and foster good governance in Nigeria.