Social Consciousness and Resistance to State Policies in Nigeria: An Appraisal of Class Analysis Theory

Abstract

Before the writing of Karl Marx the bourgeoisie recognized the existence of class struggle between the haves and have-nots: the exploiting and the exploited class. Social-consciousness therefore, is a cause and consequence of the class struggle. The struggle between classes is all part of the yearning of the dominated class for freedom, equality and justice in the process of production and distribution of material well-being of people. This struggle is a function of power and this can be understood within the context of the local situation, especially the material conditions of majority of Nigerians. The outcome of class struggle decides not only whether there is progress towards justice, equality and freedom but also how much progress. This injustice, domination, oppression, exploitation are social in character and impede social progress, and consequently generate opposition to themselves. Such opposition results in struggle to end their existence or ameliorate their consequences. In Nigeria this struggle takes the form of strikes, demonstrations and civil disobedience against perceived exploitative state economic policies. Since the State is the principal actor in the allocation of values in Nigeria, to what extent has this, awareness necessitated resistance to government policies? This paper therefore investigates how social consciousness has inspired resistance to State policies in Nigeria. Being qualitative in nature it makes use of descriptive analysis and founded on the class analysis theory. The study found out that Struggle for better economic conditions has increased class consciousness and resistance to exploitative state policies through strikes and demonstrations. They have also given credence that deprivation, alienation, exclusion and poverty seek expression. There is also the need to engage and address cries of marginalization through dialogue and visible action. Economic policies of government should also be examined and measured from their inclusiveness and sustainability.