This paper is the outcome of a research aimed to further investigate the Maier’s theory of learned helplessness. The aim is to integrate this theory as it applies to humans. Seligman and Maier postulated this theory after several experiments using animals like rats and dogs. This work is in line with the investigation of Peterson, Maier and Seligman where they carried out further investigations of this theory as applicable to humans. This investigation centred on how this theory is related to political practices in Nigeria vis-a-vis the relationship between the impoverished majority masses and the few rich politicians. The purpose of this study was to see whether the behaviour of the impoverished people of Nigeria and their acceptance of this socio-economic situation can be seen as a human application of theory of learnt helplessness. It is an empirical study predicated on this theory. It adopted a survey design, and was guided by three research questions. Data was collected from adult males and females in Delta State Nigeria, who are participants in the political engineering. The data collected was analysed using the percentage method.  The result got formed the bases on which recommendations that further investigations be carried out on learned helplessness in relation to other areas of human behaviour; also efforts be made by those in government positions not to neglect the generality of the people in the communities.  Also that Nigeria mass media and educational systems should help to educate Nigerians on their political rights.