“There’s the concern that regardless of the outcome, the tribunal’s decision could further polarize an already divided society, stoking ethnic and regional tensions…”
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As the Nigerian Election Tribunal deliberates over the fate of the country’s political leadership, an air of palpable anxiety hangs over the nation. Even in the diaspora –credit to social media and the Internet, where millions of Nigerians who live outside of their motherland followed the February 25, 2023 presidential election. The tribunal’s decision could either affirm the status quo or completely upend it, and the suspense has only heightened public anxiety. What are the reasons for this widespread concern and the potential implications of the tribunal’s verdict?
The Election Tribunal carries significant weight in Nigeria’s political landscape as it has the power to validate or nullify election results, potentially leading to a shift in power. This power, coupled with the uncertainty surrounding its decisions and doubts in the public minds fueled by a history of endemic corruption which hands over the social and political fabric of the nation, often leads to a climate of anxiety. The current situation is no different. With allegations of election irregularities and disputes over the election process, the tribunal’s decision is highly anticipated and could have far-reaching consequences.
Since the beginning of Nigeria’s current democratic regime in the 1990s, the presidency has been held by only two political parties: the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) followed by the All Progressives Congress (APC). This political trend appeared to have been broken in the February 25, 2023, presidential election contest by outsider candidate Peter Obi, of the Labour Party.
With this as context, the 2023 Nigerian presidential election took place amid the excitement and anticipation previously unseen in the history of electoral politics because of the candidacy of Peter Obi. The former Governor of Anambra State’s presidential campaign focused on Nigeria’s struggling economy as a central concern for voters in the 2023 election, and Obi’s campaign capitalized on this sentiment. He presented a comprehensive economic agenda that focused on job creation, promotion of exports, poverty alleviation, power generation, and attracting foreign investment. Obi’s reputation as a successful businessman and his understanding of economic intricacies garnered support from various sectors of society, the teaming youths of Nigeria, including the business community and everyday citizens.
Months before the presidential election, most public opinion polls showed him decisively leading the other presidential candidates. In the opinion polls buoyed by massive youth turnout at Obi’s political rallies, Peter Obi has emerged as the nation’s new leader. Obi’s revolutionary and transformational campaign mark a significant turning point for Nigeria, as his campaign and subsequent disputed election result now before the Presidential Election Tribunal have been driven by a combination of factors that resonated with the electorate. Hence, the reasons behind Obi’s transformative political success underscore the potential implications for the country’s future and the reasons behind public anxiety.
A decision that disrupts the current balance of power could lead to tensions and even unrest.
Multiple factors contribute to heightened public anxiety. Firstly, there’s the fear of political instability. A decision that disrupts the current balance of power could lead to tensions and even unrest. Secondly, the public is anxious about the potential for a power vacuum and uncertainty should the tribunal nullify the election results. Such a scenario could hinder governance and impact public services. Finally, there’s the concern that regardless of the outcome, the tribunal’s decision could further polarize an already divided society, stoking ethnic and regional tensions.
The media, both traditional and social, play a significant role in shaping public sentiment. Speculation and rumors can fuel anxiety, as can partisan reporting. While the media’s role in informing the public is essential, it’s crucial that this role is undertaken responsibly to avoid inflaming tensions or spreading misinformation.
More significant in the unfolding scenario is the role of the Nigeria Judiciary and the paramount need to reclaim whatever sense of integrity it might have enjoyed in the past. But as most Nigerians likely know, recent court rulings on election matters are damning and fraught with manipulation and corruption. And as popular billboards across Nigeria’s signscape vividly declare, “All Eyes On the Judiciary.”
Election Tribunal’s role is a sign of Nigeria’s commitment to democratic processes.
As the nation waits for the verdict, it’s important to remember that the Election Tribunal’s role is a sign of Nigeria’s commitment to democratic processes. That is why the Election Tribunal’s verdict must not be tainted or manipulated but based on the law and the process. If the outcome is just, the decision should be respected and seen as a step towards strengthening democracy and the rule of law.
Given the high stakes, the current public anxiety surrounding the Nigerian Election Tribunal’s decision is understandable. However, it’s crucial for all Nigerians to remember that this process is an integral part of democratic governance. Rather than allowing anxiety to divide the nation further, this moment should be used to foster dialogue and understanding, demonstrating the resilience of Nigeria’s democracy in the face of uncertainty. The road to a mature democracy may be fraught with challenges, but with patience and faith in the process, Nigeria continues to stride forward.
♦ Chris Chinwe Ulasi, Professor of Media and Communication, is on the Editorial Board of the West African Pilot News.
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