Sir: Again, it is that time in every four years in Nigeria when the polity is heated. Barely few days to the general election, the phenomenon of pre-electoral violence is recurring, and at a very alarming rate. This is definitely not the way to go. This has again brought to the fore the negativity of our political culture. This is not too good for a democracy gasping heavily for breath. One just needs to ask why our politicians cannot do without instigating violence prior to electioneering period.
In Ogun State, an APC rally was reportedly halted by violent attacks unleashed at the teeming members and the gubernatorial candidate, Dapo Abiodun, allegedly by hoodlums sponsored by the opposition. The case of Kwara is more spectacular. Allegations have been coming from both sides of the political divides (PDP and APC). For instance, the APC embarked on a rally at the tail of last week. The rally did not endure as it was allegedly marred by thugs of the main opposition party. The PDP, trust it, had debunked the claim of the APC and had been presenting itself as the main victim of the attack.
Obviously, the two parties cannot be telling the lie and the truth at the same time. We objective observers have been thrown into a state of confusion as the PDP national leader, Dr Bukola Saraki, was seen paying visit to the acclaimed victims of the dastard attack. The APC would also not admit guilt. Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq, the APC gubernatorial candidate was spotted in Ilorin general hospital sympathizing with those said to be victims of the same attack. Puzzling.
Robert Evans said that there are always three sides to every story: your side, my side and the truth. The truth of the matter is that the members of a party started the attack, and those of the other party went for a reprisal attack resulting in casualties ON BOTH SIDES. Sadly, in all these, the masses were at the receiving end. Saraki is still very much hale and hearty. Abdulrasaq won’t lose sleep because of the development.
At this juncture, one may be forced to ask what the duty of the Nigerian police is. Enough of running after armless citizens, the armed ones who unleash terror are on rampage. About two to three of my facebook friends had suggested that political rallies be stopped for the main time. But is that the way to go? In a country that has police force? Not too good. However, when we take a critical look at the hopelessness of the Nigerian police today, we may be left with no choice than to side with them.
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