The 2019 elections in Nigeria exposed the deep-seated bitterness that often plagues politics in Igbo land. A notable example was the visit by Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to Dr. David Ogba Onuoha Bourdex of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) after INEC declared Dr. Kalu the winner. This gesture, though simple, underscores the importance of unity and cooperation in politics, highlighting that even in the face of electoral rivalry, leaders can find common ground.
*Breaking Down Divides
Recently, I had the pleasure of hosting Mr. Ezekiel Otah Ukoha, a fine gentleman and gifted technician, at Enitona Hotel, Margaret Avenue, Aba. Our 141-minute face-to-face chat centered on Nigerian politics and the new approach we are championing – one that prioritizes issue-based discourse over petty squabbles and ethnic affiliations.
*The Consequences of Bitter Politics
Politics with bitterness has far-reaching consequences, including:
*Divided Leadership: Infighting and ego clashes weaken our collective bargaining power.
*Disenfranchised Citizens*: Voters become disillusioned, leading to low turnout and decreased civic engagement.
*Stunted Development: Petty politics hinders meaningful progress, perpetuating poverty and inequality.
*Lost Opportunities: Infighting distracts from addressing critical regional issues.
*A Path Forward
To move forward, we must recognize that politics with bitterness only perpetuates division and hinders progress. By embracing unity and cooperation, we can:
*Foster Inclusive Leadership: Encouraging diverse perspectives and collaborative problem-solving.
*Empower Citizens: Educating and engaging voters to demand better governance.
*Drive Development: Prioritizing regional growth through targeted investments and policy initiatives.
*Unleash Our Potential: Harnessing our collective strengths to drive national and global relevance.
*Conclusion
The time has come for Igbo leaders to put aside differences and work towards a common goal – a brighter future for all. By choosing unity over bitterness, we can unlock our full potential and take our rightful place in Nigeria’s political landscape.
•Dr Chukwuemeka Ifegwu Eke writes from Abiriba Abia State Nigeria
