FOCUS:
Violence, Insurgencies...
Usual Occurrences During Electioneering Periods in Nigeria:
A Worrisome Trend
By: Oriaifoh Godwins
The current rise in security challenges, including kidnapping attacks on our military and law enforcement agencies are not new to the Nigeria society, especially at time like this, when politicking is gradually getting to crescendo.
It is at this time that criminal elements who live on nothing other than crime, come all out to earn their criminal living. Hence, those crimes that Innocent citizens are experiencing today.
The question to ask is: why this recurrent decimal, and why at this time?
The reason is simple: Many of those that are not on the same political divide with the ruling party, want to do everything they can, to unseat the ruling party; sometimes by sponsoring crisis and causing mayhem, so as to make the ruling party unpopular.
This is how desperately wicked, callous and demonic the heart of some men can be. They are not bothered about the properties that may be destroyed, the children that may end up being fatherless, parents that may be made childless and the several other innocent blood that may eventually be shed in the process. Is this not callous and demonic? They forget, however, that they brought nothing to this world and when they die, which is a certainty, they will leave this world with absolutely nothing. Vanity!
For those that might be in doubt of what I am saying here, will recall that in 2014, penultimate to the election that brought late President Mohammadu Buhari into office, the crisis was like this. That was when the Catholic Church bombing in Zumba, Niger state, happened; and worse still, they carry out the bombing on Christmas Day. It was also about that time that late President Mohammedu Buhari was quoted as saying; “ The blood of dogs and baboons will litter the streets if President, Goodluck Jonathan fail to hand over power”. That was also when the then President Goodluck Jonathan said; “…my ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian…” and he quickly left office at the expiration of his tenure. Today where is Buhari? Yet this is not enough lesson to our bloodletting, demonic hearted so-called politicians of today.
Elections are expected to be a peaceful democratic process through which citizens freely choose their leaders. However, in Nigeria, electioneering periods are often characterized by violence, political thuggery, and insurgent activities. This recurring pattern has become a serious concern for citizens, security agencies, and the international community.
The persistence of violence and insurgencies during elections threatens democratic development, undermines public trust in governance, and poses a significant risk to national stability.
However, I must agree that, one major cause of electoral violence in Nigeria, is intense political competition. Political offices in the country are often associated with access to power, and influence and affluence. As a result, politicians and their supporters sometimes resort to desperate measures, including the use of violence, intimidation, and manipulation, to secure victory. Political parties frequently recruit youths as thugs to disrupt opponents’ rallies, snatch ballot boxes, or threaten voters. These actions create an atmosphere of fear that discourage citizens from participating freely in the democratic process, and eventually creates apathy and makes the ruling party, unpopular.
Another factor contributing to violence during election periods is the weakness of institutions responsible for managing elections and maintaining security. When electoral bodies are perceived as biased or ineffective, tensions among political actors increase. Similarly, inadequate preparation by security agencies can allow violent groups and political militias to operate with little resistance.
In some regions, existing insurgent groups or armed militias exploit the election period to assert their influence or pursue their agendas, thereby worsening the situation. This is exactly what I think the Insurgents are doing today.
The consequences of electoral violence and insurgencies are far-reaching. First, they lead to the loss of lives and destruction of property. Innocent citizens, electoral officials, and security personnel often become victims of clashes between rival political groups.
Secondly, violence discourages voters' participation. Many citizens avoid polling stations out of fear for their safety, which undermines the legitimacy of election outcomes.
Thirdly, persistent electoral violence damages Nigeria’s democratic reputation both locally and internationally, raising doubts about the credibility of its elections.
Addressing the troubling issues that often emanates from electoral violence, requires collective effort from government, political leaders, security agencies, and citizens. Political leaders must promote issue-based campaigns and discourage their supporters from engaging in violence. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should continue strengthening electoral processes to ensure transparency and fairness. Security agencies must be proactive in preventing violence and prosecuting offenders regardless of political affiliation.
Additionally, Civic Education is necessary to help citizens understand the importance of peaceful participation in elections.
In conclusion, the frequent occurrence of violence and insurgencies during electioneering periods in Nigeria is a worrisome trend that threatens the country’s democracy and stability. If left unchecked, it could weaken public confidence in democratic institutions and hinder national development.
Therefore urgent, pragmatic and sustained efforts are needed to ensure that elections in Nigeria become peaceful exercises that truly reflect the will of the people.