Let's talk about the man of the moment, in Nigeria. None other than Mr. Peter Obi. The presidential flag bearer of the Labour party. Mr. Obi enjoys an overwhelming amount of support from the Nigerian citizens, something I'm sure even he never expected. He is the one the people seem to have chosen as the messiah to lead the country to a glorious rebirth.
It's quite a good thing to witness. Nigerians look to wage war against ineffective leadership, and Peter Obi is the weapon which has been chosen. The question I often ponder is: Is Peter Obi being set up to fail, should he eventually win the forthcoming election?
Before you come for me, let me explain the reason behind that thought.
Whether or not we like to agree, we live in a country were citizens actively dodge responsibility and avoid accountability. A country were majority look for ways to cut corners and short change each other. Also, whether we like it or not, these are some of the resistance to a working country. An average supporter of Peter Obi, believes that all would be okay with him becoming president. What that supporter fails to realize is that for that change to happen, we all need to work in accordance to his vision.
I was in a discussion with a friend few days ago, and in that conversation, I mentioned the eagerness of Nigerians to bend the rules. In all I said, her response was you cannot change people or tell them how to act. Seems to me like an excuse for bad behavior. If we cannot change people, what is the chance that they would respect and adhere to the policies of a president who has a good intention.
Another worrying thing, is that we do not seem to bother about the other government offices closer to us. Offices such as that of the governor, house of representatives, local government chairman and councillor, are all too important in the development of a society. If these other officials are not in line with the vision of Mr. Obi, there's little change which can be effected.
Nigerians claim to be tired of the APC and PDP, but seem to be okay with them producing the governors of the various states. Why are we not clamouring for deserving candidates as governors too? Do we really expect an PDP governor to fully support a Labour party president. Truth is, they would likely do all within their power to sabotage his government. We cannot afford to ignore other offices of government.
If truly we want Peter Obi to succeed, we must be willing to put in the effort. Take our civic responsibility seriously, be accountable and obedient to the rules. We must ensure that he is surrounded with like minded politicians at every level, who would work with him, rather than against him. Failure to do these, is tantamount to setting him up for failure. I hope we take necessary action for the love of Obi!
FOR THE LOVE OF OBI
By
Jefferson Nnadiekwe