Nigeria is my dear country. And another country, which some
of you know, indeed, I can proudly claim, is "my country,” too. And I have
come to stay in both countries.
However, there is a country. And there is a country too.
But, there are sharp differences between these two countries, by wide margins,
despite certain obvious similarities.
The funniest thing is the inhabitants are the same: good
education, fantastic vocabularies, great human and material resources to their
optimal advantages. Many similarities. Though, there are few instances of
lagging behind by the other country in Africa. And it's quite unfortunate and
sad.
But during elections, citizens of a country see themselves
as one, and the citizens of the other country see themselves as arch and stout
enemies - with humongous venom.
To come home, let me draw this example. Elections were held
in Canada - at the federal, provincial and city levels not too long ago.
As the
elections approach, there was no bickering between, and among, candidates. No
thuggery. No tearing of posters. No inducement with dollars. No wooing of
voters with PDP's bags of rice, loaves of bread or 'sobo' milks. No inscription
of APC's on recharged cards, indomie noodles or exercise books. No use of
religion, ethnicity, tribe, geopolitical zones, militia groups to campaign. No
hate speeches.
No vandalization of vehicles, either of fellow opposition
parties or citizens. There's abundant respect for individuals' political
differences and affiliations. Nothing for police to worry.
And finally, and significantly, no apprehension in any part
of the country before, during and after the elections.
But, reverse is the case in Nigeria. And we're the same set
of human beings, same, or even high, level of education (for instance, Canada
PM Stephen Harper doesn't have Ph.D compared to my Ph.D President Goodluck
Jonathan). In fact we're more religious inclined/claiming than Canadians, but
still we behave like.....in the jungle. Annoying.
Now can't we begin to think politically right as rational
human beings? Can't we see ourselves as one family before, during and after
elections? One united, solid nation?
But, without insulting, I think I'll recommend to fellow
Nigerians the Canadian political model where elections will come and go -
without thuggery, violence, blood, hate speeches, death-wishes, destruction,
burning and killing of fellow Nigerian citizens! We're matured enough to eschew
these, and embrace peace - without rancour.
This is just my pieces of advice as we inch closer into
elections of political office holders in my dear country - NIGERIA.
OVER to you fellow citizens! We'll count after the
loss/victory at the polls! I don talk my own jare!
* Shodunke, a journalist, is the President, Olumo
Progressive Association Canada Inc.
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