Over the years , as public services failed to respond to the needs of citizens, many people are only too happy to use alternative services where they are available. Along with economic liberalization, the monopoly enjoyed by public utilities and state corporations were abolished. But the competitive environment introduced by this deregulation policy has not translated to better services for consumers.
From commercial banks and mobile telephone networks to fast food outlets and cable television operators, the story is the same. Nigerians, especially the emerging middle classes are paying high prices for terrible services. As for poor people this amounts to double jeopardy being penalized for being poor.
In one critical sector, parents have started to raise their voices. They are no longer impressed by the fancy new buildings, sporting and other extra curricular activities that have little to do with educating their children and wards. Moreover, it is increasingly becoming difficult to connect the high fees being demanded by school proprietors with the results. If this situation continues, there could be a backlash that may lead to disastrous outcome for all.
