The general primaries for 2015 elections are now over. The two major political parties have nominated their presidential candidates. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has produced President Goodluck Jonathan as its flag bearer while the All Progressive Congress (APC) has General Muhammadu Buhari as its presidential candidate. Both candidates have made promises on improving the lots of Nigerian if elected in 2015.
The primary elections have brought even more pressure on both parties. The candidates know that time is of essence. As tension heats up, the parties are already engaged in blame-games with dirty politicking.
The fears of the coming elections are the likely occurrence of violence, going by incidents that characterized the 2011 elections which included violence, snatching of ballot boxes, alleged massive election rigging, abductions and corrupt practices. We are living witnesses to the fact that after the announcements of the results of 2011 elections many lives and property were lost, especially in the Northern parts of the country.
Recently the International Crisis Group, a non-governmental organization committed to prevent deadly conflicts, warned that Nigeria may be heading towards volatile general elections next year. The group also appealed to politicians to watch what they do and also abstain from actions that could lead to chaos in the country.
While the primaries are over, there are still noticeable political activities that require maturity and responsibilities among the candidates, party leaders and their supporters.
It is encouraging the central themes of campaigns from both candidates. President Goodluck Jonathan has assured Nigerians that he wouldn’t fail them as he vigorously pursue his transformation agenda for their benefit. On the other hand, General Buhari has promised that he would address the insecurity in the country because, as he said, he has the ability to tackle insurgency in the country.
It is necessary to call on the political parties to deploy better campaign strategies to win the supports of the electorate. The sharing of food items and money may appeal to the poverty-ridden citizens, there should be better campaign tools in winning the hearts of the people.
The use of the media such as the television, radio and newspapers to create awareness about the political parties and their manifesto, are appropriate channel.
Nigerian politicians should avoid unethical practices in their campaigns as well as other electoral malpractices. They should also try as much as possible to make the elections free and fair.
While law enforcement officers, especially the security agencies should come out in full force to prevent breakdown of law and order, the judiciary must be fair and just in their adjudication without fear or favour.
They should watch out for those encouraging violence, and prosecute them irrespective of their political status.
The traditional rulers, community leaders and religious bodies should be aware that they are part and parcel of Nigeria. They should therefore, sensitize their followers against political violence, campaign of hatred, electoral malpractices, ethnic chauvinism and religious bigotry.
In conclusion, Nigerians should join hands to ensure that the forthcoming elections are free, fair and peaceful. We should be united to shame our enemies who claim that Nigeria will collapse in 2015. We should ensure that prediction is debunked by our actions and deeds.
As a religious country, we should intensify prayers for best leaders to emerge in all elections to lead our nation to greatness.
Chuks Eneze
History Department
University of Abuja
