By Alex Abutu
The 2023 general elections have come and gone. While many are celebrating their victories others are criticizing the process and accusing the electoral empire of compromising the whole process and rendering the election as a laugh stock.
Nigeria has established process for those aggrieved to seek redress and it is incumbent on all those who disagree with the process to do it honourably so as to avoid heating up the polite.
Our politicians should strive to maintain peace and stability as we are all aware that elections in Nigeria are often hotly contested, and tensions can run high. Politicians need to be careful not to incite violence or take actions that could destabilize the country in the aftermath of an election. This is especially important given Nigeria’s history of political unrest.
Aftermath of the 2023 elections have revealed a lot of issues especially with trending inciteful comments, messages and videos accredited to people who contested one position or the other. This development has inflamed the polite to the extent that it is pitching one tribe or religious group against another, a trend that we have never witnessed in Nigeria.
It is very important to respect the democratic process: Elections are a cornerstone of democracy, and it is important for politicians to respect the will of the people and the democratic process. This means accepting the outcome of the election, even if they are not happy with the result, and refraining from any actions that could undermine the legitimacy of the election.
The ruling party was quick in advising those who disagree with the election outcome to proceed to courts to seek redress. The advice is wonderful and a welcome development. But it should not become a boosting point for those who won and their supporters to taunt opponents as is the case currently. The court has remained the final hope of the ordinary Nigeria and everything must be done to protect the integrity of the courts as the last hope of every Nigerian. We must not lose hope in the courts no matter the situation or circumstances.
Politicians should note that it is crucial to maintain their reputation as those who engage in post-election violence or other questionable actions risk damaging their reputation and credibility. This can make it harder for them to win future elections or to be taken seriously as a leader.
Whatever the election outcome, it is important to note that for being chosen by the people and political party to represent them has positioned the candidates as leaders of the people and as such it is important that they leave above board and cautioned their supporters against any act injurious to our nation.
To prioritize the needs of their constituents: Nigerian politicians should focus on addressing the needs of their constituents, rather than engaging in post-election squabbles. This includes working to improve the economy, create jobs, and address other pressing issues that affect the lives of Nigerians.
Today we faced with many political uncertaintiesdemanding various interventions but surprisingly, all those whom our politicians were visiting and seeking their support have suddenly gone into silent mode leaving us to deal with our current situation in our own way.
Government agencies have also not helped matters under the current dispensation as they are openly taking sides and treating others as non-Nigerians.
Government is a process that continues to evolve with time and as the current administration prepares to handover power, it is important that it did not let the people down or compromise the unity and integrity of our nation. It took us almost over six decade to get here and we should not derail it for any selfish or myopic reason.
What we are experiencing, I was reminded will also passed in no time but as it hurts, let us collectively strive to protect Nigeria’s unity and uphold her honour. I have lived and worked in Nigeria since I was born and had never been reminded of my birth or religious identity until now.
Today we are drifting into a country that is placing more emphasis on where you came from and what religion you subscribed to as the basis for interaction and relationship. This should not be the case and should never be encouraged.