Opinion: Beg To Run, Beg To Work

Posted by African Examiner Featured Contributors/Columnists, Latest Headlines Saturday, September 13th, 2014

By Oyewale Oyelola

“We are calling on President Goodluck Jonathan to please contest in 2015 to continue transformation agenda of Nigeria” That was the clamour last weekend by the Anambra state Governor, Willie Obiano during a mega rally of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Akwa, the state capital. The event among others was meant to announce adoption by the party, of President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate in 2015 elections.

Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan

Presently, the Nigerian public is engaged with rash of instigated requests, demands, calls and endorsement of different political office holders to run or rerun one political office or the other. Generally, the sponsors of such requests feigned ignorance and link to the racket demands. But the otherwise is clearly evident in their evasive reactions as well as body language whenever they are confronted.

Notably amongst the methods deployed by the sycophants is conduct of imbalance and lopsided polls, which the results were always premeditated and naturally favour the ‘paymaster’. A very good example is Transformation Ambassadors of Nigeria (TAN). Since, it has been staging rallies to collect and collate signatures across the country to prove President Goodluck Jonathan’s majority among the Nigerians and the reason he deserves to be given chance to run for the second time.

On the link, it is laughable President Jonathan and his officials deny any to the group. For instance, the Secretary to Government of Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim and other serving ministers attended most of the rallies held so far. In each, they were always recognized by the office they occupied – which signifies government recognition and approval of the political meetings.

Although, political analysts believe Nigerian democracy is still developing, after 15 years of uninterrupted democratic rule. However, If we may ask; are the Nigerian leaders making effective use of the nation and common resources? Are they really benefiting the dividends of democracy? Does performance of some of the current political leaders merit second term in office?

Sincere answers to these questions are pertinent for both the initiators of ‘amala’ political demand and their foot soldiers, before fooling themselves to the extreme.

Really, feelers, facts and figures from most state of the Federation confirm that majority of the governors, especially those serving for second term, record discouraging performance as they devote more time for politicking – how to remain relevant after their tenure. Worst still, is the allegation of siphoning of public funds and resources to private account and use.

Specifically, seeking second term in office in line with provision of the constitution is a right and an opportunity for continuity of good works and accomplishment of the ongoing developmental projects for the benefit of the citizenry.

Therefore, it is crucial politicians put the people first in all their dealings, as they are the final determinant factor of their fate during the polls. Outcome of the recent Osun and Ekiti states governorship elections should serve as good lessons for our leaders.

Consequently, politicians should watch the level and manner of propaganda they wish to explore as elections approach. It is true, the media hype used to promote political agenda will have good reach, but in the long run, may not achieve the final goal. Note, it is very difficult to influence a resolute public. This has happened in the history, so politicians must watch their steps. Anybody willing to contest should come out straight and announce his intention. Enough of ‘my people want me to continue’ trick.

Finally, the present public office ‘indigents’ must be ready to beg their masters to perform, if they are urged to contest. Afterall, one good step deserves another. The same goes the other way.