Why “Honourable” No Longer Means Honourable in Nigeria
Titles hold significant value in society, often symbolizing respect, responsibility, and achievement. Among these titles, “Honourable” is one of the most prestigious. It carries the weight of integrity, dignity, and a commitment to public service. Yet, in Nigeria, the title “Honourable” has become one of the most misused and abused, especially by politicians. Over time, this has stripped the title of its true meaning, leaving many to question its relevance and appropriateness.
The title “Honourable” traditionally reflects high moral standing and is often used to address individuals holding positions of authority. Globally, it is used for members of parliament, legislators, and judges, signifying that these individuals are committed to serving with distinction and transparency. The word itself originates from the Latin honorabilis, meaning “worthy of honor.” Implicit in its usage is the expectation that the bearer’s actions will reflect honesty, responsibility, and service to the public good.
In its proper use, the title “Honourable” is meant to convey respect for elected or appointed officials who have earned the trust of the people. Members of legislative assemblies, judges, and other public servants are addressed this way as a mark of recognition for their service. However, it is not meant to be a personal title but one attached to the office they hold. For instance, in the UK and other Commonwealth nations, the title ceases to apply once the person leaves office.
In Nigeria, however, the title has taken on a life of its own. It is used ubiquitously, often by individuals who do not meet the ethical and moral standards the title implies. Politicians, councilors, and even aspirants to political office casually adopt “Honourable” as a badge of prestige. For many, the title has become synonymous with power and influence rather than service and responsibility.
This overuse and misappropriation of the title have led to widespread cynicism among Nigerians. A major issue is that many of those who bear the title fail to live up to its ideals. Corruption, embezzlement, and poor governance are rife among Nigerian politicians, creating a stark contrast between the title’s meaning and the actions of its holders. A legislator accused of mismanaging public funds or neglecting their constituents can hardly be described as “honourable,” yet the title remains attached to their name.
Adding to the problem is the cultural tendency in Nigeria to equate titles with social status. In a society where respect for authority is deeply ingrained, the title “Honourable” is often used to command deference and admiration. This has led to its abuse, with many politicians insisting on being addressed by the title even after leaving office. In some cases, individuals self-declare the title without ever holding public office, further eroding its significance.
The consequences of this abuse are far-reaching. First, it has led to an erosion of public trust in politicians and public officials. Many Nigerians now view the title “Honourable” as hollow, with little connection to its original meaning. Instead of inspiring respect, the title often evokes ridicule and skepticism. Second, the overuse of the title has diminished its value, making it difficult to distinguish between genuine public servants and those who merely seek personal gain.
To restore the dignity of the title “Honourable” in Nigeria, several steps must be taken. First, there must be greater accountability for public officeholders. Politicians and other officials should be held to the highest ethical standards, and those who fail to act honourably should forfeit the title. Second, there needs to be increased public awareness about the proper use of the title. Nigerians must understand that “Honourable” is not a personal entitlement but a reflection of one’s service and character.
Additionally, the media has a role to play in reshaping the narrative around “Honourable.” Journalists and broadcasters should be cautious in their use of the title, ensuring it is only applied to individuals who have genuinely earned it. Finally, there must be a cultural shift away from undue emphasis on titles. Respect should be earned through actions and achievements, not automatically granted by virtue of a title.
The title “Honourable” is meant to symbolize dignity, service, and integrity. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, it has been reduced to a mere label, often devoid of its original meaning. By addressing the misuse and abuse of this title, Nigerians can begin to restore its significance and hold public officials to the standards the title demands. Only then can “Honourable” truly reflect the values it is meant to represent.
Samuel Anayo writes from Jos
