The recent reactions from certain political actors reveal a troubling disconnect from the principles of true democratic leadership. What we are witnessing is not the conduct of committed democrats but the outcome of years of political misjudgment and internal contradictions. Those who once manipulated the system for personal and partisan advantage now find themselves confronted by the consequences of their own imprint.
It is particularly ironic to see individuals and groups seeking external rescue, invoking the name of Trump or any foreign figure rather than addressing the fundamental issues they helped create. Leadership demands responsibility, not dependence, and certainly not appeals to external forces to invade our sovereignty or our national interests.
This situation raises serious concerns about the state of our institutions, particularly the judiciary, which should be the pillar of equity, justice, and therefore promote confidence in our democracy. But the weakening of the institutions over time has been responsible for the lack of confidence in it. What a disgrace for our nation to resort to this despicable and shameful behavior?
It is most unfortunate that PDP has failed to put its act together until now. A party once regarded as a major national political force has lost its grip on the fundamental principles that held it together in its formative stages. Democracy cannot thrive without a strong political system built on strong political foundations and strong institutions. Over the years rather than built institutions on firm foundations PDP had relied on institutions existing on paper and not in reality. It was a caricature of the old organizational structure inherited from the real founding fathers and not the fake transactional ones currently manipulating the system for their own benefits and gains. What an irony, the party lost its conscience and its support base simultaneously to birds of the feathers.
Nevertheless, one thing is clear: Nigerians are increasingly more politically aware due to their political engagements and determination to be knowledgeable about their political environment. They are keenly interested in the integrity of the nation’s democratic process. The people are yearning for stronger Nigeria and a better future in the interests of the people, their children and those yet unborn. Thus, we feel betrayed listening to PDP national chairman’s demand for a foreign government to come to rescue our democracy.
That request was not only going to put our nation in a precarious situation, it has also violated our constitutional rights to protect our freedom and liberty.
Nigeria is bigger than any political group or individual.
Moving forward, our leaders should pay more attention to the legacy and the future of our great nation than the current crazy desire to hold on to power at all costs. And more than anything else our nation desires and deserves responsible leadership, strengthened institutions, renewed hope and trust dedicated towards the advancement of our people and our nation.
Hon. (Alhaji) Rahman Owokoniran
ADC MEDIA NETWORK 2.0
