Bigotry is a human attribute

  While we are basking in the euphoria of defections that have recently filled the polity, we must remain focused on the issues.  It does appear that so far, the leading opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party has benefited the most from the gale of defections.

There is no doubt that Nigerians have looked forward to it for hope of taking Nigeria back from those who have destroyed it by their actions and inactions. The PDP, while they celebrate the recent increase in their stock, must remain vigilant and not be fooled into thinking that it is all Uhuru for the party. To those who shall determine the standard bearer of the party at the general elections, be reminded that the single most important factor that must drive votes in the next election should be an intrinsic ability to heal our divides.

The nation has never been this divided since post the civil war period and this is made apparent in the number of agitation and insurgencies there are. Even if we are naive enough to think that we have never been really united, we can say for sure that this administration has made it worse.

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The bonds that bind us together have remained at their weakest. Yes, the economy is in shambles and there is a dearth of infrastructure but all these will come only after there is a country. A fair, progressive, united Nigeria is only possible with a fair leader free of fanatical tendencies, a leader who truly sees Nigeria as his constituency, despite belonging to a constituency, a leader with no fanatical association with any group, tribe, region or religion. For these are the issues that have brought us to where we are now

The desperation of the opposition party to take back power is understandable but such efforts will be wasteful if they allow such desperation to becloud their sense of judgment as they search for a presidential candidate.

Irrespective of who leads the government, it will be difficult for Nigeria to survive another four years of bigotry, bickering, incompetence and retrogression. Our presidential system of government makes for a very powerful president whose thoughts, belief and attitude influence all levels of governance.

Parties don’t change bigots. Irrespective of the party that such individual is in, such traits are so strong that they usually will erode even well thought out party policies that were designed to ensure fairness. It is safe to say therefore, that bigotry is a human attribute and not that of parties.

The antecedence of the candidate must therefore be seriously considered. Even as difficult as the task of defeating this incumbent may be, the task of righting all the wrongs, including uniting us, is humongous.

To be concerned alone with winning the election, hoping that the party structures and policies will keep the candidate in check, will be a huge mistake. A mistake Nigeria may not be able to survive. History does have a way of repeating itself and the happenings already are looking like a déjà vu. The opposition party must therefore ensure that the mistake of the past is never repeated.

Dr Emenena Bright,

Warri, Delta State