₦airaland Forum

The Nigerian general elections are around the corner, once again here comes the season of manifestos, campaigns, lobbying and of course propaganda. At this stage of Nigeria’s democracy, the people are supposed to choose a leader who has Nigeria’s interest at heart and foresees a greater tomorrow irrespective of age, tribe, religion or even political affiliations. Nigeria as it is, is moving at a snail speed even if it is moving at all in the development waters on our way to the promise land.
As it stands, there are currently two major political parties vying for the post of the highest political and administrative office in Nigeria. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who has been occupying the exalted office since the return to democratic rule in May 29 1999. On the other hand we have the All Progressive Congress (APC), who is seeking another shot at the title after four failed attempts. This is a fresh chance for Nigerians to choose wisely, to remain in the quagmire we are now or to take a leap of faith and see that the grass may be green on the other side.
The APC no doubt brings an alternative to the Nigerian political scene and makes Nigerian democracy a healthy one. Although, cross-carpeting of politicians lately mainly because of their alleged personal interests had made the point less effective, but it still doesn’t change the fact that APC provides a better alternative because of the tenets of their political ideology, which has been projected in all states the APC has held sway. Development projects, Civil Service training and upgrades, Infrastructural creation and refurbishments, little or no corruption and importantly a government closer to the people through the creation of more LCDA’s and so on. These and more are what the APC brings to the table.
The PDP on the other hand are fast dwindling in political ideologies and also less forthcoming on the provisions of the dividends of democracy. Political and corruption scandals have riddled the PDP’s administration in particular GEJ’s regime and there is no positive sign that its coming to an end soon. Boko Haram are running their own part of the country from the dreaded Sambisa forest unhindered, over 219 Chibok school girls have been abducted for over three months and taken to God knows where with no signs of returning soon. Alleged embezzlement of military funds and mutiny among soldiers does not instill confidence in the citizens about our fighters and protectors. The recent act of money laundering went south involving the Presidency and the “supposed” leader of Christians in Nigeria, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor is disturbing and even a disgrace to Nigeria on the international scene.
These anti-democracy acts and behaviors can make even a staunch supporter of GEJ lose confidence in his administration. This has made me come to conclude that GEJ’s supporters are blinded by either religious bigotry, tribalism or the gains of corruption which puts them at the oppressive and material advantage column. The country should come before any material or selfish gain and patriotism should be the watchword of Nigerian citizens.
In the next presidential elections, the APC is the best bet for Nigeria and looking at their prospective candidates, its only General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd.) that fits the presidency and also ticks the boxes as the president Nigeria needs right now. Taking a critical look at his scorecard when he was the military Head of State, He has the charisma as a leader to reduce corruption to the barest minimum and also restore discipline and order to the Nigerian economy. There is no better candidate at this moment than GMB, yes there is Fashola, Oshiomole and a couple of proven politicians but right now they will only fit the vice presidential slot, at least to let the no nonsense general go hard on this corrupt leaders and return sanity to the Nigerian political, economic and administrative scene. In fact, GMB will leave no realm untouched.
To those who have Nigeria’s interest at heart, who believe in the entity called Nigeria and also those who believe that “the labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain”, Lets all look beyond the propaganda that “GMB is an islamist”, “he will turn Nigeria into an Islamic state”, “he will not respect fundamental human rights”, “he is financing Boko Haram”, and a whole lot of propaganda which are being propagated by corrupt and selfish politicians and being planted and cultivated in the minds of some gullible youths. GOD BLESS THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA.
LONG LIVE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA
Atitebi Tajudeen Opeyemi
atitebiopeyemi@gmail.com

Ok

This comes as one of the challenges life will throw at you. You need to stand as one to weather the storm,stay strong brother and get back on your feet. Tough times dont last but tough people do.

very fine piece, thats part of the reasons i visit nairaland

Way to go man, good to hear

Well, good for him sha...