Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, reviewed the general security and political situation in the country, concluding that the federal government is aiding and abetting the destruction of democracy by conspicuously undermining the opposition parties.
Reacting to the multiple terror attacks across the country, particularly in Kwara and Kebbi states, and the killing of a one-star General by terrorists of the Islamic State of West Africa Province, ISWAP sect, in Borno State, Obi bemoaned the apparent insensitivity of the government.
The LP leader, in a statement, wondered why, amid the gloomy picture created by insecurity, the struggle to destroy opposition parties should be paramount to the government and their agents.
Lamenting the security situation in the country said, “A few weeks ago, when President Trump described our country as ‘now disgraced,’ many were outraged. Yet, how can we dispute it when, within a single week, 25 people were kidnapped, and one of our generals, along with other officers, was killed?
‘’Today, we witness another troubling terror attack in Kwara State. Rather than uniting in this critical moment, we are consumed by internal wrangling, party squabbles, and distractions.
“Look closely at what is happening in the PDP, the Labour Party, SDP, and other political formations – crises deliberately orchestrated by a government that should be embracing everyone so we can unite in this troubling period.
“I am reminded of a pivotal moment under President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. During an internal crisis in my then-political party, he instructed the INEC Chairman, Professor Maurice Iwu, that the stability of every political party – not just the ruling party – was essential for democracy. No party was to be undermined; all were to function within the law.”
Obi said, “What we witness today is the opposite. The current government seems more intent on weakening parties than strengthening our democracy – seeking to fragment the PDP, Labour Party, SDP, and others.
“In democratic nations, opposition is respected, elections reflect the will of the people, and governance involves carrying everyone along for peace and prosperity. A New Nigeria is Possible.”
Chuks Okocha
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