The recent elections have concluded, with winners and losers emerging. However, in the typical fashion of Nigerian politics, there are always individuals who refuse to accept defeat gracefully and instead resort to “baseless hysteria” or “unfounded panic,” also known as “false alarm.”
These individuals, predominantly from the losing team, constantly seek ways to justify their loss or humiliation by finding unnecessary faults in the declared winner. Their actions demonstrate a lack of sportsmanship and an unwillingness to accept the reality of the electoral outcome.
In stark contrast, true statesmen rise above partisan divides and focus on constructive dialogue for the betterment of the nation. They engage in respectful and informed debates, offering constructive criticism and proposing solutions that serve the best interests of the country.
Their sense of patriotism shines through as they prioritize the well-being and advancement of the nation over their own political gains.
For instance, one particularly ardent critic questioned why an Army Officer should be dressed in full regalia and follow the Nigerian President wherever he goes as an ADC.
However, a simple check would clarify that Tinubu is not only the President but also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
This fact explains why in the presidential villa, there are two flags displayed – one representing the President and the other symbolizing the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. These flags behind the President signify his office as the President of Nigeria and as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Yet, the mischief makers would have you believe that the second flag represents Islamic symbolism and implies the Islamization of Nigeria. However, they are not as ignorant as they would pretend to be if exposed; rather, they are intentionally spreading mischief and falsehood.
Recently, the President arrived in Lagos following a successful foreign trip to France, where he attracted numerous foreign investors to the waiting hands of Lagosians. Truthfully, this was the first time Tinubu visited Lagos as the President and Commander-in-Chief.
Now, these same opposition members turned mischief makers are crying waste over the President’s convoy, conveniently ignoring the fact that among those convoys were numerous VIPs and government officials, they came along with their crew as well (press etc)
Amidst the convoy, notable figures including the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Chief of Staff to the President (who also served as the former Speaker of the House of Representatives), the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, and very likely a majority of the Lagos State House of Assembly Members, alongside other high-ranking government officials and close associates of the President, undoubtedly constituted a significant part of the convoy.
Considering the security implications, it is expected that Tinubu’s convoy would be larger than usual. However, those engaging in criticism fail to acknowledge this and instead choose to “speak with a forked tongue.”
This phrase implies that someone is intentionally deceptive or dishonest in their speech, saying one thing while knowing the truth or having a different intention. It is often used to describe individuals who manipulate or deceive others through their words, ultimately revealing their true intentions and exposing their foolishness.
It is evident that the naysayers and mischief makers who are criticizing Tinubu’s presidential convoy in Lagos are engaging in baseless criticism and false alarm. Their refusal to accept defeat gracefully and their tendency to spread misinformation and manipulate the facts only serve to expose their true intentions and highlight their lack of credibility.
True statesmen rise above such pettiness and focus on constructive dialogue for the betterment of the nation.
Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is the Chairman and CEO of Bush Radio Academy.
Source: Reporteronline.
