Dr. Tabitha in her interview provided a simple definition of due process as a prescribed set of rules established to attain a specific objective, and it is evident across different spheres of life, including the moment a child is born. Also, she said that all individuals should be treated fairly.
It’s about due process. A lot of people might easily get discouraged when they see people who cheat and get easily away with it. But the truth is, you only get discouraged if you on your own never agree with the ideology of due process.
In Nigeria, some may think, “If I don't vote or if I still vote, the results will remain the same”, well, I will keep voting because constitutionally is my duty towards my country. I will come out even if it's not convenient, and stand in the queue under the rain, under the sun, and cast my vote.
That's my civic duty and irrespective of what happens thereafter, it shouldn't change who I am. So, I am the type that follow due process as much as I can, I hate cutting corners and I do not like people who caught corners. So, I will keep doing what I'm doing and encourages others as much as I can, to do the same, especially if it's the right thing to do. Because the end is not really about the end or the outcome isn't just about the result. While growing up, I often heard this saying, "A good name is better than riches." Sometimes, you may not attain great wealth, but having a good reputation can open doors for your children. It signifies that this is a family with a legacy. That holds more importance than merely seeking monetary success.
Dr. Tabitha strongly believes that a solid foundation is crucial for establishing a good process and for encouraging individuals to adhere to due process, regardless of the circumstances they may face.
Generally, we have a generation of youth that tend to cut corners and avoid following the proper processes. This behavior often stems from the poor examples set by their parents. Children learn from their family environments; when parents do not adhere to due process, they inadvertently teach their children to do the same. Therefore, I cannot fully blame Generation Z if they struggle to follow due process. We need to examine how they are being raised, and whether they are being taught the importance of following due process in all aspects of life. This is where the real challenge lies.
In her opinion, she highlights the key principles of due process and how they can contribute to a fair and just society.
The first step she said, is to understand the processes involved in pursuing a particular goal. For instance, you want to make money from a business, so, you should take the time to sit down and think through several key steps: securing your capital, sourcing your goods from reputable vendors, and how to maintain quality because it's really a problem. You must also focus on customer care and strive to be content with what you have per-time. Additionally, consider how you can grow your profits without compromising quality or alienating your clients or customers. That business aspect, those are general steps. First of all, you should understand the test for a particular field or life you want to encounter.
For instance, if you want to go into politics, you need to understand the terrain you are entering. You have to find persons that have gone ahead of you for mentorship, those that will tell you their failures, their successes, and how they achieve their success. You must also be content to serve in lower-level positions; you can't expect to rise to the top overnight.
Then when you reach the point of faith, how do you manage it? You have to find out how to manage all of these. So, in due process, this is where understanding the system plays a significant role. You should ask questions, seek out mentorship, and find a mentor who can teach you and provide guidance.
Moreover, you need to be open and receptive to your mentor's advice. Ideally, your mentor should be someone you can turn to for support and accountability. They should be able to call you back to order if you stray off course. Being vulnerable to your mentor and allowing them to guide you is essential for your growth and success in the field.
The second step is accountability. You should be accountable to that person. If you stumble or miss a step, return to that individual; they should be able to guide you with wisdom on how to proceed. It’s essential to avoid cutting corners at any point in your journey.
A long line is a familiar example.
The line is long, you know the cashier in front, there is no need to jump the queue, stay where you are, be patient and whenever it gets to your turn, do what you want to do.
You don't need to start tipping somebody, giving bribes, sending a recharge card (Airtime) etc., just to get what you want. It might take a longer time but when everybody around you tries to follow through the process you discover that actually the waiting time is not exactly long, it's when people cut corners that makes the line that ought to be moving, seemingly not to move.
The third step is patience. Basically, and of course, being patience, you can't take that out, in following the due process is very important. As we navigate through life's journeys, it's important to take note of the lessons we learn along the way. Each time you travel the same route, it often takes less time than the first because you become familiar with the path. With this knowledge, reaching your destination becomes easier.
Similarly, understanding and appreciating the reasons behind rules and laws can be beneficial in following due process. By recognizing their purpose and value, we can better navigate the systems in place and make informed decisions.
How does due process contribute to building trust and confidence in government institutions, and what impact does this have on national growth and development?
Dr. Tabitha makes a reference to the Lt, Dora Nkem Akunyili who was the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) of Nigeria from 2001 to 2008. She said, Dora Nkem was sort after because of her integrity (You can read more about the former NAFDAC boss Dora Nkem her role and why the government sort after her.)
She said when Dora Nkem headed NAFDAC the institution became popular and gained more trust than it is now. NAFDAC right now there is nothing really significant, you can’t say, oh, I beat my chest that any drug coming out is original.
When she was there, there was real sanitation of the system and the country. But right now, we can't speak too much about that organization again. So, that is a typical example of somebody that follows due process, and how it works in building trust. She's principled because you can't separate someone who follows the due process from principles. It takes principle to follow due process and credibility helps build trust.
Balanced with the need to address pressing social issues such as national security threats or public health emergencies. With references to the Nigerian police force in handling eyewitnesses and crime scene reporters as a criminal, they should follow due process and be serious in their primary assignment by investigating the true crime rather than victimizing individuals in the community who are trying to contribute to a friendly safe community.
To the point that no one will be willing in helping others in any circumstance regardless, in the spirit of fear that the police will pin the crime on the one that renders the help.
To the medical/public health team in handling disease outbreak and their containment.
The concept of due process is essential to ensure that individuals receive fair treatment under the law, and it is a fundamental part of any democratic society. However, in some cases, there may be pressing social issues, such as national security threats or public health emergencies, which require a deviation from standard or due process procedures.
To balance due process, with the need to address these pressing issues, there are a few approaches that can be taken:
· Follow laws and regulations that balance individual rights with the public good.
· Develop special procedures for addressing pressing social issues
· Involve independent oversight and review mechanisms.
· Increase public awareness and education.
· Leaders and top-rank government officials should also respect due process in other to set a great example for society to follow.
In summary, balancing due process with the need to address pressing social issues requires careful consideration of individual rights and the public good. It is essential to develop laws, procedures, and oversight mechanisms that ensure fairness, accountability, and transparency in decision-making.
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