Nigerians can only experience true leadership when leaders are genuinely elected, according to Datti Baba-Ahmed, a former Labour Party Vice-Presidential candidate. He made this statement during an interview on Channels Television’s “Politics Today” program on Tuesday.
When questioned about the solution to the recurring cycle of killings in Nigeria, Baba-Ahmed emphasized the importance of electing the right leaders. He stated that genuine elections are crucial in achieving this goal, as they ensure that leaders are chosen based on the will of the people. “You can only have the right leaders when you have them truly elected,” he said.
Baba-Ahmed attributed the country’s insecurity to the practice of manipulating election outcomes. He noted that when individuals or groups resort to stealing elections, it undermines the legitimacy of the government and creates an environment conducive to insecurity. He cited the 2015 elections as an example, where certain groups exploited the tools of insecurity to achieve their desired outcome.
Furthermore, Baba-Ahmed pointed out that these groups have continued to employ divisive tactics, including the use of religion, ethnicity, and money, to further their interests. He emphasized that such actions have significant consequences for the country’s security and stability.
The issue of election integrity is a critical concern in Nigeria, where the electoral process has been marred by allegations of manipulation and violence. The country has struggled to address the root causes of its insecurity, which has led to the loss of countless lives and displacement of many citizens.
Baba-Ahmed’s statement highlights the need for free and fair elections in Nigeria, where the will of the people is respected and reflected in the outcome. As the country continues to grapple with its security challenges, the importance of genuine leadership and the role of elections in achieving this goal cannot be overstated. The path forward will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders to ensure that the electoral process is transparent, credible, and reflective of the people’s choice.
