Time to unite

The last few months had been  tortuous for our dear country. Since certain figures declared interest in certain political posts, the political atmosphere of Nigeria had been intense. Ever since then, governance had taken flight for politicking as discussions on how to move Nigeria forward were largely put on hold, and political discussions took the center stage. Finally, the dust is settled. Winners had emerged; losers should try again later. After all, there is always a lesson in failure.

Personally, I believe this year’s election was free, fair and credible. Though, violence and inadequacies marred the electioneering process in few areas, the credibility of the election should not be ruled out outright. On a scale of 10, I will score the electoral umpire seven. At no time have elections been 100 per cent free and fair in the history of representative democracy. Even in advanced democracies, inconsistencies are still pronounced in electoral processes; a pointer to the fact that perfection solely belongs to the creator.

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If a Dino Melaye who had been at loggerheads with the presidency could still win his seat back, it speaks volumes to the independence of the electoral commission. On the flipside, if an Ajimobi who is in the good book of the ruling party could lose his constituency, one thing is clear: the will of the people prevailed. The case of Bukola Saraki should be a story for another day.

Moving forward, if an Osibanjo, the second citizen of Nigeria could lose his polling unit, it shows the manifestation of democracy as government of the people in the exercise. In essence, I don’t think there should be much ado about the elections again. Those who are not content should head to the court rather than disturb public peace. The cumulative effect is that lawyers will get fatter.

On a final note, now that the elections have been won and lost, shall relationships that had gone sour on the altar of politics go sweet again? I hope you know a man divorced his wife for supporting Buhari. I must also have offended some friends due to my political leanings in recent times, do accept my unreserved apologies. Shall our friendship retain its normal course again? Above all, shall Nigerians come together despite the differences in their political sentiments before the elections to ensure that governance and development prevail? Shall the winners see themselves as government officials rather than party-men, and thus encourage a level playing field for all?

In all, let’s come together again to discuss how Nigeria can be better.  If you have to criticize, be civil and constructive. May the incoming dispensation be a turning point in the life of every Nigerian.

Abdullah Abdulganiy

Ilorin.