With the recent Supreme Court verdict on the epic gubernatorial election in Rivers State which pronounced Governor Nyesom Wike as duly elected, we are calling on all political gladiators to sheath their swords and give peace a chance.
We are glad that the two main protagonists in the political “war”, Governor Wike, who flew the flag of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and his counterpart, Hon Dakuku Peterside, who stood for the All Progressives Congress (APC), went public with peace overtures as soon as the judgement was made known on Wednesday, January 27, 2016. While Wike made a radio and television live broadcast calling on his former opponents to join hands with him in developing the state and providing good governance, Peterside immediately raised an olive branch, pledging his cooperation.
These two leaders, by their pronouncements, showed good examples for their supporters to emulate. We hope they would follow up their words with action and ensure that a conducive atmosphere is provided for the peaceful coexistence of all citizens and residents of the state. We need to reiterate that the essence of the democratic contest for leadership is to give the people the chance to choose between the candidates who are hungry for their endorsement.
It is unfortunate that politicians saw themselves more as gladiators and warriors during the campaigns and the elections proper, and conducted themselves in ways that led to loss of lives and property and deep grief for many innocent citizens who suffered collateral damage. The elections in Rivers and Bayelsa States were “soaked in blood”. We totally abhor this beastly manner of electioneering, and hope that lessons have been learned to avoid a repeat in the future, both in Rivers and all other parts of the country.
The beauty of democracy is evident in the fact that no condition is permanent. Those in power today will one day be out and those who lost today have more chances to try again in the future. The story of our incumbent President, Muhammadu Buhari, should inspire all politicians to be patient and persistent in seeking the people’s mandate. Three times he tried to be president and failed. He made it the fourth time.
The time has passed when any leader or political party could hope to stay in power without justifying the mandate given to them. PDP, the ruling party in Rivers State, the main opposition, APC, and others have roles to play in ensuring good governance in the state.
They all have a shared obligation to provide an enabling atmosphere for the citizens to enjoy the dividends of democracy and accelerated development. Four years is just a shout away, not an eternity.
