Letters

Must politics involve bloodshed?

Over time, politicians in Nigeria as a result of their desperation for power or self-centeredness, waste human lives and properties. This is not the proper practice of democracy, especially in a modern world.

Political leaders are vital because by the authority of government, they can distribute power and resources, build relationships with key stakeholders and make decisions that can have great impact on the well-being of a nation and its people.

However, leadership in a political framework requires ‘statesmanship’ as opposed to just being a ‘politician.’  This means having the integrity and willingness to stand up for what is right even if it means resigning a position in government or losing an election. It is calamitous that political conflict had actually begun early before independence from colonialists and it is still the trend today.

Political leaders are expected to lead the populace into realms of development, but sadly they encourage conflict in politics. Hardly would you find the children or relatives of politicians or the sophisticated and elites in the society involved in street fights that are politically motivated.

It is heart-rending to know that Nigerian youths are used in fights that threaten democracy; they are induced into this by politicians and the elite. Notwithstanding, the amount of bloodshed that Nigeria witnessed during the civil war, blood is still being shed till today.

In fact, the northern part of Nigeria is becoming blood-soaked because of political crises. Houses, car packs, gas stations, marketplaces, churches, mosques and schools are being burnt down because one person or the other wants to rule as the president or hold a political post in the country.

In the 2015 general election, violence was witnessed in so many states of the country. The world is full of aspiring political leaders but sadly, very few live up to leadership ideals. However, the masses should always crave for peace, think and vote wisely. I also challenge Nigerian security forces not to be partial in political conflicts; they should work for the progress and peaceful co-existence of Nigerians in the country.

 

Umar Yunusa,

Niger State.

David Olagunju

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