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I have expected that the incumbent governnment will always have access to machineries to cheat in the next elections, which they have done. The Police, all the security agents, Inec are all under the control of PDP who have enough money to buy them. Having said this, there is no way Buhari can defeat Obasanjo in these Presidential elections.
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However, the results of the Governorship elections in Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa were heavily rigged, and should be reconducted under the Supervision of EU and other independent organisations.
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Mr. T. OKUKU, LONDON, ENGLAND 29 Apr 2003
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I THINK THE ELECTION IS A REFLECTION OF THE STATE OF INSTITUTIONALISED CORRUPTION PUT IN PLACE BY SOME SO CALLED IDEOLOGICAL STATE APPARATUSES AND REPRESSIVE STATE APPARATUSES.BUT TIME WILL DEFINITELY TELL IF THIS GOVERNMENT WAS RE-ELECTED BY THE NIGERIAN PEOPLE.
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OBI.V.M, NEW JERSEY.U.S.A 29 Apr 2003
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It is a very shamful thing and a big slap to christianity that Obasanjo calls himself a born-again christian. He is a born-against christian. He loves evil and enjoy doing evils. This is not to say that Buhari,Ikemba and all other presidential aspirants that lost are better, they are all bad omen to our great country, Nigeria.
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For Obasanjo to tell European observers that they do not understand the nature of Nigeria and their tradition, was to claim that corruption, rigging of election and all evil devices you can think of are part of our tradition. Shame to you, born again christian. God must surely judge you in his anger and wrath. Shame to all those demonic pastors, money lover pastors, that preach prosperity and 419 without preaching salvation. I heard one of them praising Obasanjo. Probably, he wants to be a personal pastor to Mr. president. [ texte en entier ]
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ADA, TORONTO, CANADA 29 Apr 2003
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There is no doubt that the elections were rigged. It could well turn out to be the most dubious election in the history of Nigeria. I have a feeling that the script used in the rigging, is the one the late General Abacha left behind in his failed self perpetuation bid in power.
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Implications: The bastardly manner in which the elections were rigged will no doubt further increase the level of tension in the Nigerian polity. It is unfortunate, it is in no way good for a political horizon that was already too bedevilled with massive unrest and protests which is often met by brutal force on the part of the government.
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Insecurity will certainly increase now, human rights abuses will be more rampant and in a faithless dispensation, there will hardly be any meaningful econonmic progress. Instead, deliberate social economic and political sabortage will increase. [ texte en entier ]
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Theophilus Osezua-Emiowele, Berlin, Germany 29 Apr 2003
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The just concluded election in Nigeria was very peaceful, we give glory to our creator in heaven, who has better things to offer.
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Nigerians should rally round this new government, to be able to make good his promises. No election in history has ever been 100% perfect. We're all living witnesses to what happened in USA with Florida's issue. After all, President Bush is doing his best. The Congress and the entire USA populace are right there behind him. Al Gore did not say heaven should fall. He took it in good faith. Democrats and the independents did not call for mass revolution.
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The best that we can be proud of now is Obasanjo. He's still the pillar holding the nation together, based on his refusal for national conference. The logical idea for that move is just to say He, we're here to divide in peace. Nothing more or less. [ texte en entier ]
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Festus Aji, New York, USA. 29 Apr 2003
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Nigerians should move on, since the country is still trying to perfect democracy, this baby step is very encouraging; this is a young country, thank God there is no bloodshed. Please let us all rally behind the president-elect and move on.
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Richard Laguda, Brooklyn, NY, USA 29 Apr 2003
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This contribution is inevitable having gone through some of the contributions made by others. Please pardon me for contributing twice.
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Did Nigerians actually vote for Obasanjo? If they did, they should reflect on those words of Benjamin Franklin: "Those who would give up essential liberty for temporary safety, deserve neither liberty or safety" -1759.
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I think Obasanjo did not deserve a second term, neither did Buhari in a democratic dispensation. I expected Nigerians to denounce these self-acclaimed leaders with military instincts and call for new leaders without any previous military involvement.
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People talk about his (Obasanjo's) success in telecommunication thus reminding me of a popular Yoruba adage: "Omo oju ori-ola ri ti n wabe s'aya." Literal translation: "A child not privileged to see wealth tends to ascribe exaggerated value to things of less significant" (note: This writer is not Yoruba). [ texte en entier ]
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Dennis Alabi, South East London, UK. 29 Apr 2003
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Rigging? That doesn't bother me as an issue, what constitutes a disturbing thought however, is the moral justification of a regime which promised to eradicate epiletic supply of electricity (among other things) within the first six months of its being voted into power. Same regime requested for a year to overcome this problem, granted, they never anticipated the magnitude of the problem they encountered.
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Today the same regime has spent four years and this problem is still there; so what's the moral justification for asking for a second term? These are nothing but a bunch of shameless and heartless crooks mortgaging the future of people like me all in the name of politics and governance.
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They have secured a glorious future for their children and offsprings at our expense, and never would they give chance to those who will raise the standard of living of the masses, because money dictates the Nigerian politics. [ texte en entier ]
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Dennis Alabi, SE LONDON, UK. 29 Apr 2003
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Let's be honest to ourselves, no election no matter how perfect, can be flaws-free 100%. We should give all Nigerians a pat on the back, for a peaceful conduct at the last general election. Could you believe that I asked my wife who was at home around that time, to come over to New York? It was unbelievable, that the election could be done just like that.
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Now my question is this, if the exercise had been so fraudulent as it was reported by the foreign media, I trust my people back home, the reactions would have been spontaneous. Nigerians are no Iraqis, nor in any other part of the World where they cannot fight for their rights. What really made me to believe that PDP did a good job, was the case scenario with Ondo State. If PDP did not win, the World will know right away.In as much as the masses are not complaining, please no one should be allowed to incite people to revolt. [ texte en entier ]
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Funsho Orojo, New York 29 Apr 2003
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It was due to poor performance in Nigeria, that was why people was complanining because of the election. But if I can say, they should allow Obasanjo to rule for the second time for us to see what he can achieve most. I pray to God almighty to open his eyes for him to see good and bad that is happening in Nigeria so that there will be amendment. Those that fail should not cry. Another 4 years is coming ahead.
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Chinenye, Ajegunle, Lagos, Nigeria 29 Apr 2003
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It is interesting to read some of the comments put on this site. But one can not help but wonder how many of those people making these remarks have actually been to Nigeria lately.
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Personally I think a change of government will not neccessarily change things in our country but a change of attitude. Over the years I have seen significant improvements in the country. Somebody mentioned salaries not being paid I wonder how long that individual has been HOME. We can all talk a good talk from abroad. But I want you all to take this thought... If the way we all work very hard abroad and tow the line (not all of us of course) we had the same attitude back home Nigeria will be a better place for all of us. [ texte en entier ]
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A Patriotic Nigerian, England 29 Apr 2003
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At this moment of Nigeria's transition, successive democratic administrations is preferred than else.
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In terms of Obasanjo's priorization process, I think his administration should tacitly pursue installing sustainable power energy as the pivot of industrialization and the country's life. Nigeria is poor because of the relegation of power and misplacement of priority. Power is everything in terms of development, it is all the basics the Nigerian child yearns for. I feel that Obasanjo understands this well, what we pray for is the will power to do it and ignore external bogs that would not live to see Nigeria great because they are regrettably 'more Nigerian' than us.
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Power is everything - water, road, food, wealth, technology, humanization, longevity, peace, development, Nigerianization!!!! [ texte en entier ]
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Petroff, Auckland 29 Apr 2003
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Those in authority didn't know that we know all that was going on even before this time. And I think it is high time they stopped deceiving us with their dem-all crazy , crazy-demonstration of all sorts. Just to mention but a few of the dividends of dem-all-crazy: ASUU strike 2 infinity, destruction of lives and properties. So if this government should handle power for the next four years, I think it is going to be too bad for us as a nation but I reject it in Jesus' name (amen).
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Ndubuisi Iroham, Yenagoa, Bayelsa state, Nigeria 29 Apr 2003
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If two Nigerians are to vote for themselves, you can be sure both will complain that one of them rigged the two votes!
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If you want a free and fair election in Nigeria, take away free wealth like oil etc, becuase that is what everybody is gunning for. Same applies to the Western world of course! It is a pity that Nigeria joined the democratic process at the wrong spot. Why?
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You remember that in America and Britain, voting used to be restricted to only a few. I wonder what America would have become if the Red Indians, Slaves, Plantation Boys and Carpetbaggers had been allowed to vote some centuries ago; CHAOS and WAR.
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Same would have occurred in Britain if Women, Ne'er-do-wells and Menials had exercised their franchise. Unfortunately, Nigeria still has 'em who are allowed to vote. Fair enough in the democracy of the present age. Yet the Western world highlights rigging and unfair elections. I hope they are not showing their love for the Generals who if given the chance will change the Nigerian constitution to only allow select people to vote like it was done in the Western world some decades ago. [ texte en entier ]
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Blast Giwa, Lagos and Abuja 29 Apr 2003
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The Election results should be challenged. This is not Democracy. The whole exercise was a complete charade. For this country to move forward, a national conference should be summoned, the constitution has to be reviewed, the current office holders should step down and allow elections to be conducted. INEC should be dissolved and re-organised.
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JULIUS IFEDI, IMO 29 Apr 2003
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Please, I don't want to know who win. I am only pleading that the government should look into our country and know what they should do about all these agboro people because they have become something else in this country.
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Look at every bus stop now, you must find them. And the cost of their transport increases day-by-day. Workers are suffering from transportation fare. Please the government should look into this, we are not having much salary, at the end of the month nothing will left with you. Please the masses are suffering because of transport issue.
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Chinenye, Lagos, Nigeria 29 Apr 2003
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I commend all my fellow Nigerians for their contribution to this debate but we don't really talk about the main issues - "Nigeria election, what next?".
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WAS THE ELECTION RIGGED? I would say YES the election was rigged, because for PDP to have won with a wide margin in some area/states that are heartland/strong hold of many opposition party is logically a BIG FRAUD. Anywhere democracy is practised in the world people should have what is called a strong base or a safe seat which an opposition can never win. In Britain Labour party have safe seats which can never be won by conservative party come what may and in America, a Republican can never win in a Democrat safe seat. Even Saddam Hussein will still win Tikrit - his home town - if an election is held there today.So, to me the electin was manipulated in many states where other parties like AD, ANPP, APGA had a strong hold or safe seat. [ texte en entier ]
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Toyin Lugboko, London. U.K. 29 Apr 2003
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The evidence overwhelmingly states that the elections were not entirely free or fair. Two million applications were rejected, the ten-day registration period, short make-up period, and the universal depth of corruption within Obasanjo’s past terms of power overwhelmingly point to a corrupt election.
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Aisha of Nigeria’s personal account of seeing a man with six unofficial ballot boxes is reminiscent of a recent election here in the United States. The power of media has allowed us Americans to lose sight of the fact that we had been duped by the powers that be and somehow we move on with this.
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Contrary to Hume of Colorado, to my knowledge, Bush did not have a previous record as a leader of a military regime. Obasanjo has made some advances but we must ask at what costs. Many other possible strides have been sacrificed. To me any loss is too high when it is not the will of the nation’s people. I would one day like to be proud of a country because it is my own. What good is “peace” if it is not the will of the people? [ texte en entier ]
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Kelly, ISU, USA 29 Apr 2003
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Well, let's thank God almighty for his mercy over that country Nigeria. To me I could now see, beyound reasonable doubt, that God loves this country of our own. To be candid I did not believe that the election can be held in the first place or, if at all it would be held, heaven would fall with many many lost lives. But to my surprise things were to some extent okay. By God's grace,now I think democracy has come to stay in Nigeria. So let forget about the little problems we had during the election and move forward. We should see ourself as in a learning process. One day (which I doubt)people's choice would emerge as a winner. Forward Nigeria Backward Never. [ texte en entier ]
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Olusola Emmanuel, The Hague,Netherlands 29 Apr 2003
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Whatever transpired during the Nigerian elections were reflective of the kind of happenings in a country that dresses itself in borrowed garments. Nigeria lives a foreign life. Consequently, every aspect of her life is phony. Not until we, as a sovereign nation - if a nation we are - stop living for London,or for America, all our actions will continue to be marked by suspicion and disbelief.
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Our leaders (if not imposters or stooges) do what they do because they must answer to their colonial masters. If they fail to give good account of their stewardship to their masters, they are worse off for it. Because they should give this account to foreign overlords, their citizens mean little or nothing to them. They should do anything to appease the clandestine schemes of their foreign masters who don't care whether citizens die or live. [ texte en entier ]
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Madu Onwuchi, Washington, DC, USA 28 Apr 2003
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We thank All Mighty God for witnessing the election as free and fair, even though people have been agitating for bloodshed in the country, especially the Western world, who have been talking of rigging even before election was done, spoiling Nigerians minds in Overseas Countries.
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The loser should accept and put themselves together with the newly elected government and work for the progress of the nation.
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Also, my advice goes to Buhari to stop going to court; Mr President, this is not the time for you to fight for democracy, have you forgotten when people of Nigeria raised democracy, what was your reply by then? Please we want progress for the country, we are suffering in Abroad.
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Mr Obasanjo, please stop corruption, among your cabinent, laundering Nigeria money in overseas country is too much; have you heard that one of your cabinet bought a house at CHELSEA, in London? Long life to the people of Nigeria. [ texte en entier ]
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Afolabi Aderemi, Germany, Mainz 28 Apr 2003
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In line with the controversy over the presidential election, I advocate that Nigerians should give peace a chance by allowing Obasanjo to serve his second term.
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Who wins is not the issue, but what happens later. There is no election that would be 100% flaws-free in the whole world, Africa in particular and Nigeria very much concerned. Nullification of the result will not solve the problem but add more salt to the wound. This could equally result in more killings. So, there should be no worry over things that are too infinitesimal to handle. Obasanjo should continue.
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Nechi C J., Canada. 28 Apr 2003
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First, I wish to congratulate all the candidates, both the winners and the defeated. I'm particularly happy that you all are alive to witness the most peaceful and successful electoral venture ever embarked on in the history of Nigeria as an independent nation. You do not know how tall, those of us in developed nations, are able to work as a result of this ongoing election, especially, with the foreign observers, giving it a pass mark.
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I am impressed by the candor of the defeated candidates so far and I hope they will, ultimately, accept the verdict and wait for the next four years, for the masses to speak with their votes again.
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One good thing, about the outcome of this election is that Nigerians now realise that there is no rigidity in politics. You go by the perfomance of whatever party rules; if the party fulfills its obligation, let it continue,and if otherwise, show such party the way out, just as you have done now. Surely Nigerians have come of age, politically. Please keep it up. Do not allow any idividual, or group to take you for a ride any more. Enough of the suffering. Continue to use your vote legitimately to chose who you want to govern you. [ texte en entier ]
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Michael Ojo, New York City, U.S.A. 28 Apr 2003
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In response to the above question(s), "Do you place justice and fair play at the top of the priority list? Or do you say that Nigeria needs stability and peace more than she needs a flawless election?"
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Stability and peace are top priorities; however, if justice and fair play are compromised, how then can you guarantee lasting peace and stability, much less basic rights? Justice and fair play are instruments neccessary for securing our rights, including our voting rights.
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On the other hand, if you resolve to make justice and fairplay the top priorities, stability and peace could very well be compromised. In the final assessment, it would seem that if you place justice and fair play above peace and stability, and you remain steadfast in that pursuit of justice, you are more likely to secure lasting peace and stability, at some cost though. [ texte en entier ]
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Ike Egudu, Washington, DC, USA 28 Apr 2003
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The election was not free and fair. Obasanjo and his PDP gang members rigged the whole thing.
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Buhari is an ASS but he should have been given a fair chance.
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Sir Wire, Toronto 28 Apr 2003
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Thank God this election is over (or close to it)! I just wish that the losing side would accept loss gracefully. Instead of contesting and bad-mouthing the winning party, why not look to the future and work toward creating a better Nigeria TOGETHER? Many of us in the Western world want to return home, but desire more stability with our political system.
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We have lost enough precious Nigerian blood over the years as a result political feuds. I and other Nigerians say ENOUGH!
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God, power, unity, freedom, happiness for our home, NIGERIA.
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Glo Glo, Virginia, U.S.A. 28 Apr 2003
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The election may have been rigged by the overzealous PDP supporters, but I sincerely believe that Obasanjo is the true choice of Nigerians. Even if the election is repeated 20 times in those states where rigging took place, Obasanjo will still have a clear lead.
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Justin James, London 28 Apr 2003
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It will make no difference whether Obansanjo or Buhari join the ranks of presidency. I lived in Nigeria under Buhari´s utterly brutal and repressive military regime. It was pure hell! How can someone like that have the stamina and turn up in civilian disguise? This is a travesty for democracy.
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Apart from that it is a big and unexcusable shame for Nigeria; a country that is filled to the brim with incredible natural resources - most of which are still untapped - not to come to terms with its grave inner social and economic problems. A coutry blessed with such an abundance of oil and gas, with more than 70% of its population living in absolute poverty and a receding middle-class (as compared to a relatively strong middle-class in the late 70´s and early 80´s)makes one sit down and cry in despair. [ texte en entier ]
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Bauer, Gensheim, Germany 28 Apr 2003
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Sincerely speaking, I knew what was going to happen and it just happened that way. Nigerian society is complex,nobody is ready to accept the fact that he has a skeleton in his cupboard. You are fighting corruption, yet the election went in the most corrupt way. But the truth is that even those that are crying now because they lost out would still do same, if they were in power.My only happinness is that there is DEATH -- so the losers cry no more,it is just temporary.
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OBISIRIKE SAVIOUR EJIKEME, LONDON,UK 28 Apr 2003
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Only in a country of the blind would a person like Buhari, a tribalist and a religious bigot with a history of harsh dictatorship, defeat a detribalized and democratic person like Obasanjo. Every sincere Nigerian, including honest Huasa/Fulani people, would admit the defeat of Buhari even before the elections were held.
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There are no "perfect" elections anywhere in the world. Some flaws are bound to occur, no matter how meticulous the preparation is. Therefore, nobody would doubt that some rigging/anomaly might have taken place. But should Obasanjo be held accountable for the rigging of a governorship election in Anambra or of that of a senator in Sokoto? Also, Nigerians being who they are, a loser would always cry foul even when it is fair. [ texte en entier ]
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Hassan Ola Chukwu, Massachusetts, USA 28 Apr 2003
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These April elections were perhaps not as free and fair as in other parts of the world, but that is besides the point. Remember that this is only the first election in Nigeria's young democracy. There will be hundreds more to come.
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Nigeria should consolidate what it now has, which is better than most other African nations. I call upon all Nigerians to work towards further establishing the ultimate free democracy and the ultimate free market economy of Africa.
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Also, the future of Nigeria is bright. Current privatisation and deregulation reforms will ensure that within ten years Nigeria will be Africa's largest Agro-Industrial, Steel, Aluminium, Bitumen, Refined oil, Cement, Software, IT, and Gas producing nation. It all depends on the pro-active participation of the Nigerian people in their democracy if they will benefit from these developments or not. [ texte en entier ]
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Tariq , Amsterdam, The Netherlans 28 Apr 2003
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What I don't understand is why these people so much want to hold onto power. The system has failed terribly in their hands. If I were Obasanjo, Buhari, all of them, I would be embarrassed to show my face in the streets. What does Obasanjo have to show for his first term in office? what does Buhari have to show for the time he stayed? What about all the governors that got re-elected? why do they love power so much? Greedy monkeys.
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Drew Okoroigwe, USA 28 Apr 2003
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The battered General is fighting a lost battle. He should admit his failure and devote his energy and party ideology in forming a coalition of opposition against the big-for-nothing PDP, at least to establish check and balance and secure the voice of the minority.
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Buhari and his fellow generals should understand that what Nigeria needs is not generals and politicians, but leaders and statesmen.
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O. Ekene, Maryland, U.S.A 28 Apr 2003
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As Nigerians, we have to finally stand up and stop this erosion of our civil liberties by challenging this election. This was a rigged election all through. I personally saw one man being arrested by police men for having 6, yes 6 fake ballot boxes on him all with 'votes' for PDP!
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The Nigerian monitors were threatened for doing their job by the state governors if they do not campaign for PDP. In addition, the votes that the monitors counted were not used at all rather the 'votes' counted were from fake unofficial ballot boxes. In places where there are currently fightings going on and as such, elections haven't taken place, we hear of results being announced by PDP with them winning. This is a big slap on the face of democracy. [ texte en entier ]
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Aisha, Nigeria 28 Apr 2003
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I have read your complimentry and heart-felt tributes to the recent concluded election in our country.The Igbos are crying, Hausa/fulanis are wrecking, Yorubas are jubilating, middle belt are confused. But I must tell you all, fellow Nigerian's, that we all have big big big very big problem in Nigeria to solve.
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The problem we have in Nigeria today is tribalism, ethnicism and myopia-ism.We all still have a bright future to correct our wrongs. But I have just one worrisome question to ask; is there anywhere in Nigeria's constitution where it says that states are not allowed to devolop their community and states? If not, why don't Hausa/Fulani concentrate on their agriculture which they are very good at and develop the north with that; Yorubas claim to be our intellectuals in Nigeria and they should make good use of it; Igbo's, Igbo's, Igbo's, how many times did I call your name, go back to the east and develop your home and stop complaining. [ texte en entier ]
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Chidarl, Toronto Canada 28 Apr 2003
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I am not a politician but the only way to strengthen democracy and good government is to allow the wish of the people to prevail. Obasanjo might have secured the highest number of votes in a free and fair election but he should not to have won outrightly.
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The implication of the present scenario is that the people's view and feeling should not be taken seriously. Simply by getting dirty politicians who have perfected the act of cheating on your side guarentees you winning, there is no incentive to adopt people- oriented programs.
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I think that all the election should be cancelled, especially in the south-east and south-south to send the right signals to those evil men that they can not get away with defrauding the masses of there foundamental rights. [ texte en entier ]
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Don Abor, London 28 Apr 2003
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I could not understand what all these noises are all about. Nigeria is not new to corruption when it comes to an election. There is no any free election in the world. All of us witnessed how it went with Bush in the USA - how he got power by corruption and our eyes are now open to the reason why he was installed then, the dramas in which Bush are now playing out show that snatching of power started from the registration of voters and honesty should be forgotten when power is about to be ready for snatching.
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The only surprise in the election of Obasanjo and his party is how PDP, known as Hausa party in the Yorubaland could overrun AD, the Yoruba party. This is a great lesson for Yoruba politicians. Chief Awolowo did not play politics with kid gloves, he would not sleep and wait for the whistle blowing before starting to organise his party. He saw politics as a serious business and he played it like that. [ texte en entier ]
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Prince(Babalawo)Adigun Olosun, London, UK 28 Apr 2003
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Nigerian elections, which elections?
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Nigeria is like a classic Greek tragi-comedy. It is based on a very faulty structural foundation. Due to that fact, it cannot achieve democracy. Nigerians know this, yet they assume that democracy can be achieved without making the necessary sacrifices and political adjustments needed for democracy to thrive.
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Since there is no will to make the necessary sacrifices and adjustments, they dance in political circles. Thus, all Nigerian elections have always been characterized by excessive rigging, thuggery, intimidation, assassinations, and bribery. The 2003 elections are no different.
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In fact, instead of learning from past mistakes, Nigerian politicians have actually escalated the art of electoral rigging. This time, they did not even care to match the number of registered voters with the number of actual votes. So, even in areas where elections did not hold, the results were about 90 - 95% in favor of the incumbents. In some cases, the victors actually gained more votes than the number of registered voters. [ texte en entier ]
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Priye S. Torulagha, U.S. 28 Apr 2003
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Obasanjo should go away from that seat. Let there be one Nigeria but this is supposed to be our own turn - the Igbos should be in that presidential seat. Obasanjo has to go down peacefully or else...
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Okey Onyia, Germany 28 Apr 2003
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Nigeria and Nigerians need good governance, probity and accountability, an end to the raping of poor majority proletariat by the infinitesimally small percentage of corrupt oligarchies in the north and south. Can they honestly - including Buhari - vow they've ruled well and have not raped poor Nigerians of their rights and dignities?
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Please, whosoever is aggrieved, plead your case through the right channel, follow the rule of law. Mr President, rule with integrity, probity, fear of God and love for your citizens. Fashion a system whereby the citizen and proletariat can appraise, without oppression or intimidation, those appointed to hold any administrative or management office.
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Here in London I could convey my concern to my MP without fear or intimidation. As a civil servant in London, I serve with transparency and probity, my employer (the UK government) thus invests significantly in staff training and development. Having served in the Nigerian civil service before, itis extremely difficult, almost lethal, to be upright amongst the ravenous wolves - corrupt government office holders. [ texte en entier ]
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Biodun Alade, London UK 28 Apr 2003
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I would like to plead to all Nigerians to accept the outcome of the just concluded elections as the will of God for Nigerians for now. It is God who installs kings and rulers. If the Almighty God did not permit our dear Mr. President Olusegun Obasanjo to be re-elected, he would have failed.
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Having said that, I would urge every Nigerian to give peace a chance. Let those who are bitter in mind because of the election learn to be humble.
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Evans Nwaomah, Auckland, New Zealand 28 Apr 2003
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That people like Nzeribe are still winning election in Nigeria says a lot about ourselves.
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They say every nation deserve the kind of leader they get, we deserve Obj, we should stop the crying! Or if we think it is the military or Buhari, we should put them there with our actions and/or inactions.
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As a Nigerian, am only thinking the future genration will be kind enough to forgive our compliance and mumuism.
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Come 2007 now, when it is assumed that power will go to the north, the Marwas, IBBs and Buharis will come again, and we will say we are choosing the best of these "three" evils.
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Let God forgive our self-affliated suffer-suffer.
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Omosmart Oso, Goteburg, Sweden 28 Apr 2003
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Having seen the trend of evidence, I will categorically say that the PDP has committed the greatest sin against humanity. Imagine the massive rigging. Oh it's unbelieveable that PDP won gubernatorial positions in most of the states. Imagine Lucky Igbinedion of Edo getting a second term!
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This is not good for the nascent democracy. Normally Obasanjo cannot win in his constitutency if not for the ringing.
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Aigbe Anthony, Sweden 28 Apr 2003
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I will like to start by saying a very big congratulation to Nigeria and Nigerians, we should not carried away by the freedom of expression we are now enjoying, all thanks to democracy.
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I strongly believe that Nigerians are very lucky to have Obasanjo as their president but we are too much in a hurry, we are always expecting miracles where it requires a little patience - we seems to have forgeten where we were when Obasanjo came in.
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Nigeria was a country where phone was gold, where people don't even know what is Internet, where one tribe is superior to others, if not for Obasanjo, how can a man from Delta state be the army chief? how can a man from middle belt be the air force chief? [ texte en entier ]
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Kelly Evboumwan, China-Daqing city. 28 Apr 2003
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All aggrieved contestants should endeavour to go to court, they owe it to the 12 million plus peple who voted for them. They should realise that we are ready to move on by May 29, if they fail to take their case to court. There will be a government in place after May 29. They should please stop making statements that are capable of creating instability.
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The last elections provides us with an opportunity to improve on future ones. All complaints handled within the ambit of the law help to further test and hence strengthen our democratic institutions-courts, INEC, police etc.
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These people should realise that folks like us who leave our homes every morning to source for our livelihood do not want any form of civil distruption. They should act up to the post which they contested for [ texte en entier ]
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Adebayo Ogunnifa, Port Harcourt 28 Apr 2003
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There was never going to be a clean election anyway. Besides, even a clean election was never going to solve the problems of Nigeria.
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Nigeria`s problem, like many others in Africa, is how to get rid of the corrupt goverment officials.
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Nyikach Dominic, Oslo, Norway 28 Apr 2003
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Rigging is stealing and stealing can never be justified. However, the stealing in this April polls in Nigeria is special because a thief stole from another thief and that is why Nigerians are still silent about it. Ordinarily, Nigerians need nobody to incite them into mass action. But if Buhari does not pay hooligans, nobody will kill even a fly because Buhari lost an election he was actually supposed to lose.
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All this talk on Buhari's past history, of his so-called honesty, leaves more questions than answers. Was it really Buhari that was honest or was it his second in command, Idiagbon? What was he doing with Gen Abacha in PTF- dining with the devil with absolutely clean hands? I mean, if he were a very clean person, the reaction would have been spontaneous. He should read the writing on the wall and leave innocent Nigerians after all, is he not tired yet? Obasanjo is a lesser devil. [ texte en entier ]
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Abbah, Hongkong 28 Apr 2003
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Come on let us use common sense. Buhari is a Fulani chieftain who is designated to rule the Fulani. Facts on ground
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-He foiled Democarcy in 1984.
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-Could not stand a palace coup in 1985
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-Was ruled by Idiagbon throughout his dictatorship.
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-a religious bigot, (Sharia Advocate)
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-a sectional leader whose FUND undertook projects within the Fulani areas only.
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Obasanjo had no real contender as he was the only nationalistically inclined leader and candidate. PDP had a national vision and as such will continue to rule untill other party leaders disabuse themselves of sectionalism.
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Nigeria must move ahead. Buhari should go to court and present his so-called evidence and not call for mass protest. This is all about democracy. Well it is not new, as he has always been a man of confusion and destruction. It will not be new if he attempts to foil the present democracy, but let me warn him, Nigeria is in post-modernism. He will not succed but will die like his other local chieftain, Draconian Sani Abacha. [ texte en entier ]
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Elias N. Lamle, Department of Social and Cultural Anthropology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium 28 Apr 2003
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Honestly, my congratulations go to Chief Ayo Fayose for making the impossible possible. He is the new thing in Nigeria politics. And I am happy for Nigeria for having Obasanjo again as President. GO ON BABA OMO ODUDUWA we here in US support you wholeheartedly.
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Please let the new federal house pass a resolution banning anybody [from politics] who has participated in a coup in Nigeria.
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GOD BLESS OBASANJO. GOD BLESS FAYOSE. GOD BLESS NIGERIA.
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Chief Olubunmi Adesina, Los Angeles,California 28 Apr 2003
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With no political interests, Nigerians' major problem is corruption and mis-management of Governmental monies. Obasanjo could not solve the problem. He'd retire and Let the real CLEAN AND STRAIGHT-HAND PROBLEM SOLVER take over. To favour the masses and the world as a whole. The election needs to be CANCELLED.
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Zazaya, New York, USA 27 Apr 2003
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Nigeria today is bedevilled by many crises, the recent upsurge surrounding the electoral process is but one. From the ongoing it is evident that the nation has a long way to go as far true democracy is concerned. It is for us, the electorate, to be patient and wait upon God who in his own time will transform the polity.
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tim agera, abuja 27 Apr 2003
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The opposition parties have jointly and separately rejected the result of the polls and some have even gone to the extent of calling for a mass movement to protest against the result. However, what the opposition have failed to realise is that there is no such appetite or hunger on the streets of Nigeria.
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The man on the street sees nothing to fight for. He has been used and dumped with no credit paid to him for his effort at enthroning democracy. He fought the uniformed oppressors sacrificing his comfort, material possession, blood and life and yearned for democracy because he was made to believe that democracy is the final solution to all his political, socio-economic problems. But what did he get at the end? Hunger, starvation, deprivation, unemployment, arson, tears, sorrow, blood ...His effort were not even acknowledgeed. [ texte en entier ]
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Dickson Chukwu, Ajegunle, Lagos, Nigeria 27 Apr 2003
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Based on the reports from both local and foreign journalists, Nigeria's elections were rigged by all parties. However, it is equally true that the ruling party, PDP, with the resources available to it, carried out most of the abuses. Having said this, I would advise the opposition parties to accept it for the interest of the country. It won't do Nigeria any good to dwell on this.
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When George Bush, the Republican candidate, was declared the winner in the last presidential election in the United States, the Democratic candidate, Al Gore, accepted the result, despite all what happened to the contrary. He did so to avert a constitutional crisis in the country. Buhari should do the same to save Nigeria, a fledgling democracy, from slipping into the (what?). Maybe with the loud and clear national and international outcry about the flagrant abuses in the election, Obasanjo and PDP Governors in the states will do things differently. [ texte en entier ]
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Dr. Christopher Ide, Savannah, Georgia 27 Apr 2003
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Please let us leave all these unwarranted sayings about an election which has come and gone. Please, Obasanjo had convincingly won and as far as Nigeria is concerned now, he is the best among the rest. Let him do it once again.
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Oluaiye - Oluomo, Lagos, Nigeria 27 Apr 2003
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The election was free and fair though there are some irregularities, I believe that no man-made things are perfect; as a good citizens we should thank GOD for everything and moreover NIGERIA needs our prayer.
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NA OBASANJO THE CAP FIT FOR NOW I BEG LET HIM BE.
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Kunle, Ikeja-Lagos, Nigeria 27 Apr 2003
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The ruling party (PDP) has succeeded in confirming the recent grading of Transparency International that Nigeria is the second most corrupt country on earth.
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It is high time for the international community to respond to credible assesments such as the ones conducted by Transparency International.
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Nigeria needs help to get rid of these people, they are Nigeria's weapon of mass destruction. We have oil too, so America, Britain and other members of the willings, we need your assistance urgently.
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Boss, London, UK. 27 Apr 2003
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The deed has been done. The elections were obviously rigged. Now we have a society that is not just decayed, but on the brink of collapse. Therefore, anything that will hasten or act as a catalyst to its collapse should be avoided. It is on this note that I say we should let sleeping dogs lie and allow Nigeria to be. Let us all chose to leave the results as they are and help peace to reign.
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(Member English and literature students association congress, Uniben).
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Obogrow Ogbevire O., Benin city, Nigeria. 27 Apr 2003
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The result of the general elections are out and there are winners. This is what we have been praying for; a sustainable democracy. So we should not give the devil a chance to ruin what we have suffered for. So those that lost should take it as one of those things in life. As politicians they are supposed to learn how to accept what comes their way, be it defeat or victory. Let us give Obasanjo a chance to complete what he has started and also find out ways of helping him carry Nigeria forward. Instead of causing unnecessary problems for all of us. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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Onyia Pascal Chinedu, Benin City. Edo State. 27 Apr 2003
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I actually would like to congratulate Obasanjo for living up to the expectations of most right-thinking people of the world. That he masterminded the use of government institutions and machinery to violate the mandate of the people should come as no surprise to those who know Nigeria and its rulers.
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As the President of the most corrupt nation in the world, how could any one have expected Obsanjo to conduct a fraud free election? As the head of the so called democratic government of Nigeria, that unilaterally dispatches military personnel to slaughter unarmed civilians in the Niger Delta Region for protesting against and resiting environmental and economic oppression, Obasanjo's institutionalized corruption should come as no surprise.
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I think Obasanjo is the Crown Prince of Fraud and he has proven once and for that fraud and corruption is Nigerian as he is that Nigerian. [ texte en entier ]
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Okon Bassey, Lagos, Nigeria 27 Apr 2003
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The recent Nigerian elections may not have been perfect but they were good enough for the fragile democracy. Nigerians should move on and challenge Obasanjo and his second administration to stabilize:
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(a) Electricity throughout the nation;
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(b) Ensure that there is good water everywhere;
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(c) Ensure that the education is revamped and teachers/professors are paid well;
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(d) Build and maintain a good road network;
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(e) Develop the security system and ensure safety of lives and properties;
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(f) Update the telecom system; and
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(g) Make giant strides in agriculture and food production.
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That is all Nigerians need to build a great country. Elected and Govt officials should not succumb to sycophancy and detached management style that removes leaders from the every day sufferings and experiences of the citizens. They should work hard and immortalize their names in Nigerian development. There is no excuse for not performing at this point. [ texte en entier ]
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Joseph U. Igietseme, Atlanta, GA USA 27 Apr 2003
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Firstly, Buhari should explain to the international community how he managed to win 32.19% if his party did not take part in the rigging.
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Wolf Inno, Frankfort, Germany 27 Apr 2003
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Do we have Democracy or a Transformed Millitary Regime? In fact, it is discouraging that in a country like Nigeria fully enriched or naturally blessed by all sorts of physical, mental and natural resources, the Nigerian still lives contrary to expectation.
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Democracy is the Government of the People, for the People and by the People. The question is, do Nigeria and her inhabitants belive in democracy or in trying to practice a transformation of the military regime to an appreciable democratic standard?
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At this juncture, I am of the opinion that it is too late to cry when the head is already off.
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At the preparatory stage, I mean from the nomination of candidates to the registration of political parties, Nigerians and the responsible machineries for a free and fair election seem to see capable Nigerians as retired military dignitaries who have failed Nigeria and Nigerians for years. Be that as it may and knowing fully well that the devil you know is better than the angel you do not know, I feel Nigeria and Nigerians should respect and accept the results of this election and hope for a better tomorrow. [ texte en entier ]
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Ifada Jacob, Hamburg - Germany. 27 Apr 2003
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I do not have much to say about the elections, other than to say both the winners and the losers should bury their heads in the sands at Bar Beach.
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Here is a country where its University's students have not been back in their respective campuses since last year October and none of the leaders or politicians have said anything about it. I would expect the great minds in the country and abroad to be up and arms about it but none exist.
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We've become a nation where education is a joke and does not deserve our undivided attention. We are too busy running after government contracts instead of arming ourselves with postcards/banners/fliers protesting on the streets against the government that rendered our institutions unsafe/uninhabitable for the great minds in the making. [ texte en entier ]
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Toks Kuti, Bowie, Maryland, USA 27 Apr 2003
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I was in Nigeria from May 5 2002 to February 23 2003 and based on what I saw and eprerienced, there is no way Obasanjo could have won the election. Unless, of course, Nigerians are so sadistic that they do not want to change their lot for the better. All you people who are writing and claiming that Obasanjo won should go back to Nigeria and help the man because as far as I am concerned he has absolutely no clue. The pain and suffering that began with the coming of Babangida has reached its ultimate climax under Obasanjo. There was no evidence of transparency in all tiers of the government, it was even worse in the excecutive arm. I believe the elections should be done over again without the military being involved. [ texte en entier ]
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Chibuzo Onubogu, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA 26 Apr 2003
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"Injustice somewhere is injustice everywhere," says Dr. Martin Luther King. When the June 12 election of 1993 was annulled, Buhari, Ojukwu and all their fellow crying politicians had the opportunity to stand up and fight that injustice then, if they had fought then, what happened last weekend would have been a thing of the past in Nigeria. Like we say in America, "what goes around comes around." It is an act of God, dear former PTF chairman Buhari and dear former constituent assembly man, Ojukwu.
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Ayo Famewo, Chicago, IL 27 Apr 2003
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My heart bleeds for my country!
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Truly, the election of April 19 - 419, is what it connotes, 419. A fraud on the people of Nigeria.
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There is a joke making the rounds now. It goes thus: "Britain conducted an election and released the results a day after. America wanted to beat the record and conducted theirs and released the results same day. Nigeria, not wanting to be outdone, released the results of their election before it was conducted!" Can you beat that?
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What a shame! Shame! Shame!! Shame!!!
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Mike Chinedu Anekwe, Lagos, Nigeria 26 Apr 2003
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I am sure a lot of people (Nigerians and other nationals) are reading the stuff on this site and honestly some comments are just gross.
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Without any doubt, I believe the time has come for us all (all Africans) to call the bluff of these Western media and their sponsors and challenge the negative way they report events in Africa.
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We are all living witnesses to the disgraceful and disappointing way the current occupier of the White House got there and no African leader or media cried 'foul' but no matter what we do in Africa, they cannot wait to condem us.
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Let's wake up guys !
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The truth is that there is no country in the world where there is totally free and fair election. It is the same everywhere. [ texte en entier ]
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Tunde Labeodan, Austin, Texas, USA 26 Apr 2003
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I believed the election wasn't free and fair.
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Since I was born I never see in Africa where incumbent party lose election without completing its term in office. But my advice to other parties is for them to accept the result for the interest of peace in our country.
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Arthur George Simon, Seoul, South Korea 26 Apr 2003
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I guess this is the begining of a very long learning process in our quest for a virile and enduring democratic dispensation - let us not disparage completely the very modest achievements of the present administration and its efforts in enthroning a sustainable democratic ideals.We should all be aware that, like any new process,there will always be "hiccups" on the way of faultless implementation and, as such, learn from the ensuing mistakes.
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However,aspiring leaders of Modern Nigeria should learn to guide their utterances and channel their grieviances through the appropriate judicial platform as is the practice in all advanced democracies which we claim to emulate.
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I strongly recommend that we should all learn to tolerate one another and stop the barrage of undue criticisms that has led us to nowhere. [ texte en entier ]
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Henry Oshingbeme, Toronto, Canada. 26 Apr 2003
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Rigged or not, what good will nullification do for any of us? Remember Gore/Bush rancor; there was no coup in America. Such a coup could not but make things worse for all Nigerians, by inviting more apprehension and skepticsm from outsiders. We should allow OBJ to finish his second term. He will not be due for another election ever again.
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Hume, Denver, CO 26 Apr 2003
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Well it is disheartening that the good people of Nigeria are again to be denied another golden opportunity to choose their leaders; again, I am sorry.
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However, I passionately plead with General Buhari(Rtd)and all meaningful Nigerians to accept what has happened for the simple fact of discipline and respect for a pronounced authority. It will not continue to be so forever.
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I do not like Obasanjo for his complancy with evil, but God knows better than any of us why he has allowed him to win again. Obasanjo loves evil so much that he accepts the slogan that he is a "leader that all can trust". I hope he will check on this this time.
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Please Buhari, a disciplined person accepts defeat, there is more time; remember you will not be judge for losing but Nigerians will hold you responsible for what you will do now. I love you and others like Ike Nwachukwu. [ texte en entier ]
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Nyamor, Ibrahim Gabriel, Henderson,Tennessee,USA 26 Apr 2003
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It is a naked truth that what happened in Nigeria in the name of election is rather appointments. Inec should be held responsible for any uprising.
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Odera, Nsukka Enugu 26 Apr 2003
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Rigged or not, democracy is better than military dictatorship! Which of the parties did not take part in the rigging? No African nation can have absolute free and fair election until elections are handled and supervised by the UN. Compared to the last election held in Zimbabwe, this is fair enough in a country that fails to educate her citizens.
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Queen of Elbhye, Berlin, Germany. 26 Apr 2003
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I do not believe that these past elections should be cancelled because they were rigged.
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As a matter of fact, Obasanjo did not go round the whole country to manipulate all the elections results. If anything, I would suggest that those who have been able to manipulate the processes should do more to perfect the act of election rigging because that is the only way the young generation, who cannot afford to import thousands of retired service-men and do not have extra stolen cash to throw around, can wrestle powers from the old brigade.
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John Edekhaka, London 26 Apr 2003
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l don't think Nigeria's election was a free and fair election, according to press; I hope President Obasanjo will develop Nigeria this time, the last four years in office was a waste.
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Vivienne otis, hungary 26 Apr 2003
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We had an election and a winner was declared. "Ask not what your Country can do for you, but what you can do for your country" John F. Kennedy once said.
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I know it is never easy to accept defeat in any situation especially when the defeated feels he/she was unfairly treated. If for no other reason, accept the defeat as an act of PATRIOTISM that peace is the doctrine of the land and work harder the next time an opportunity comes for you to show you deserve victory.
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"A MAN'S DESIRE NO MATTER HOW NOBLE IT MAY SEEM, MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO TRUMP THE NEEDS OF THE POOR AND NEEDY".
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Osagie Ogbomo, Chicago, IL 26 Apr 2003
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I really feel that the recent election in Nigeria is, pretty much, much of the same. No matter who wins, whether PDP or ANPP. I feel that the problems of Nigeria are rooted in its political history.
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In my view it is the problem of ethnicism and regionism that has found its roots in the British colonial experience. In my view, it must be understood that the question of ethnic groups or ethnic minorities is a historical one. The genesis of this contradiction, whether within a national state or in the world at large is really bound up with the real motion of history which not only has a concrete basis in reality, but it also involves several social forces - that act in very different directions and interests. [ texte en entier ]
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Sekou Osei, Brooklyn N.Y. USA 25 Apr 2003
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Granted that the recent general elections were not 100% clean; it is very wrong to say that the whole election should be discarded and a fresh election held. Was the last Presidential election in the United States of America perfect? Let members of the so-called monitoring teams from around the world pass their comments on that as well,and stop being unduly too critical/hypocritical of the elections just concluded in Nigeria.
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Nigeria has come a long way so far.The democratic process is just starting to be improved upon, judging from the events of the past 43 years since independence. Nigerians DO NOT want to relive the horrors of the military maladministration of the various regimes with the attendant moral,social and economic setbacks. [ texte en entier ]
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Adefolaju Ashaye, Bristol, United Kingdom. 26 Apr 2003
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Firstly, I want to congratulate the people of Nigeria for the sensible approach to the General elections. For too long the people have suffered and died over rigged elections, and the leadership has not not hidden the fact that their only agenda is to continue their greedy, corrupt practices which have plagued Nigeria since Independence.
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Throughout the campaign period no single party was able to explain their programmes for the Nation, all that caught the headlines were personal issues on how this done that OR failed to do this. What about delivery on our Public services, there is no tap water, electricity, functional schools and hospitals. Ah! not to mention driveable roads.
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All the parties were guity of sheer arrogance, ill-informed practices that left the people with no choice. Most Nigerians chose not to vote at all. In all of these, the ruling party, indeed the incumbent president has an opportunity to right the wrong of the past: that is to produce a capable cabinet that can govern Nigeria, incorporating the rule of law, justice and fairness and producing a dynamic and robust plan/policies to tackle our Economic and Social problems across the Nation! [ texte en entier ]
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Eghe Osamwonyi, London, England 26 Apr 2003
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I strongly believe that Olusegun Obasanjo won the 2003 presidential elections. I want his opponents to realize that in every election, there must be winners and losers, they should accepts the result in good faith.
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He (Obasanjo)should focus more on agriculture to improve the economy of our great nation; also he should select men of honesty and unquestionable character in his cabinet which should be based on merit not sentiments. May God Almight help us - amen.
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Augustine Nwankpa, The Hague, Netherlands 26 Apr 2003
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Democracy in all its glorious practical machinery anywhere has fault. An ideal system in theory, but it is poked with holes when weighed against the reality of this lolling, dribbling world.
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So far, it is still the preferred system in a multi-cultural nation like Nigeria. Sani Abacha rudely awakened Nigerians: military rule is terrible. The new beginning is not going to be easy because of the learning curve. How long is it going to take to reach competent stage?
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There is a stage of learning ABC. Nigeria has passed. Learning words and sentence structure is her present struggle. Would she quickly master this? It depends on her willingness to apply herself as a studious pupil. When you carefully examine those Asian nations that are thriving democracy, there is a common thread that runs through them. It is a strong desire to learn how democracy works. And the reinforcing iron bar of any concrete democratic system is compromise. [ texte en entier ]
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Matthew Adun, North Carolina, USA 26 Apr 2003
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The just-concluded election to the best of every Nigerian's knowledge is free and fair - except in the opposition camp that refused to acknowledge the outcome. The nation is not ready for this time wasting. Such money for re-election could be diverted to good causes, servicing our debts - after all they (the military)incurred the debts.We are tired of their complaints. And if the losers are bent on serving their motherland, right-representations could be made to the(Obj) gov't before coming up with the lists of its executive members. But to call a fresh election, over our dead bodies as we have no such money for now.
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Let those whose interest is to serve us be known through their official bodies A.S.A.P so as to adjust our lists before it's too late. And if it's the opposite to please keep quiet for the next election 2007. [ texte en entier ]
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Alli Papa, London 26 Apr 2003
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I am surprised at the argument of the international observers that the elections in Nigeria were not free and fair. Where in the world do you have free and fair elections? Tell me one country? Is it America, Britain or Europe?
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All the political parties at the Nigerian elections knew before hand, the problem associated with conducting elections in Nigeria. We are talking of about 60 million voters that is four times the size of the country I live in.
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Nigeria need more support in conducting elections and not condemnations. The losers should learn to work together with the winners to advance the course of Nigeria. We do not need another unrest, things are bad enough.
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My final question is how can three candidates win a single seat election. It is not only Buhari who is claiming victory, Ojukwu also claimed to have won the elections. Let us please settle down and support the government to move Nigeria forward. [ texte en entier ]
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Elvis Ndubuisi Iruh, Almere, The Netherlands 26 Apr 2003
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To say that the elections are over and Nigeria must forget the past and move on is easy to state. In most contests, the loser cries foul. Obasanjo and his cronies would have been crying foul presently had they lost. Thus the crying foul over the outcome has become such a vicious cycle that would continue incessantly. For that reason only, I shall opt for an end to the debate over the result. Notwithstanding, Nigeria owed the rest of the continent to demonstrate a keen sense of a responsible elections. It's shameful for the elections to end up this way.
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Frederick Delaney Mancka, Washington, DC, USA 26 Apr 2003
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As far as I am concerned, no election was done in Nigeria. What we experienced was mere fabrication of result and mass oppression of individual choice. People voted under duress and fierce intimidation.Personally, If I had gotten the oppurtunity I would have advised Obasanjo not to allow any form of rigging. As we all know, Obasanjo would have won even without any form of rigging. But where the problem lies is the unpopular incumbent PDP governors who won the election despite the fact that , if the election was free and fair they would not have won their street.
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OKODUWA GABRIEL, Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria 25 Apr 2003
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Really the Presidential election in Nigeria was not different from what we had here in 2000, when the current selected White House resident was declared the winner by the highest court in the land.
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I may not entirely share President Obasanjo´s position that nowhere on planet earth can there be perfect balloting and the exercise of voting. I do however believe that in our societies where the so-called democratic process is still very much a thing that weighs heavily on tribal and ethnic base, it will take time to transform this mind set.
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Nigerians could have done better as the flag-bearers of Africa but as usual the nature and character of the people will not allow for this to happen. I hope that those who were robbed of their votes will put their self-interests aside and remember that in the interest of national progress, any grievences must be channlled through the legal forum. [ texte en entier ]
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wodkoch Kurabal Abe, Houston, Texas. USA 25 Apr 2003
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In 2000, there was an election in the U.S.A. and we all heard what happened in that election. Majority of the people thought Al Gore won that election, even the media said that Al Gore won the election. But did Al Gore take Bush to court? No. He conceded and congratulated Bush. We as Nigerians should learn from this. I am not saying that it is good for elections to be rigged. What I am saying is that, since the election has been conducted, we should accept the result and move on. The whole business world is watching. If there becomes another Political instability, those that have been thinking of investing in Nigeria will go somewhere-else and invest. Let's give Nigeria a chance to survive. A lot of us working and living outside Nigeria want to come back home, but who wants to come back to this kind of chaos? What we should do now is support the President so he can do his best for the Nation. All this I pray through Jesus Christ and Allah, AMEN. [ texte en entier ]
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Emmanuel, Durham, NC USA 25 Apr 2003
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The recently concluded election heightened the fear of intolerance amongst the ethnic tribes that make the federated unit known as Nigeria. The concluded election only serves as the last straw of all attacks on his government by his distractors. It's not the outcome of the election that bothered these enemies of democracy but their unpreparedness to allow ordinary citizens to share the basic amenities that makes a complete life.
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To me the man (OBJ) should be left alone but this time around he should focus on how his govt should improve the quality of life of an ordinary Nigerian, not only the minority political class.
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And to the defeated, take the result and learn the lesson that sometimes rigging is a good result if the majority Nigerians agreed to it, as there has not yet been a serious complaint from the general public but [only from] the stakeholders from the opposition camp. [ texte en entier ]
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Abimbola Kumapayi, London 25 Apr 2003
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I have read all the previous arguments for and against this past (s)election and can only conclude that our destiny as Nigerians lies in our own hands.
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This (s)election is to perpetuate the moneybags who continue to parade themselves as politicians in power. They have no real or cogent reason to be in office other than to line their own pockets.
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In 2007 we would be able to assess them only to see that nothing has been achieved and so goes the cycle, term after term.
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As long as there is no form of transparency and accountability, no improvement will ever visit itself upon this geographical expression called Nigeria. Instead all we will have are emerging crooked overnight millionaires, fatcats and opportunists. [ texte en entier ]
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Victor Akinola, NJ, USA 25 Apr 2003
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The true losers in this election are the poor, cowed Nigerians and they are not being considered in the equation. The average Nigerian was not given a choice ab-initio. These are former army generals who, at one time or another, had contributed to the fall of the African giant. It is a coup and nobody should think of legitimizing it by pulling the poor Nigerian into it.
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Guobadia’s “hands are tied” and what we had was another arranged election “magic 03”. Let those who lost go back to the drawing board for a more vicious plot come 2007 and leave the pawns alone to their fate!!
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Bertie Onyeka, Vancouver, BC, Canada 25 Apr 2003
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Wasn't it a shame that Nigeria is called a third world nation? Wasn't it shameful that anytime CNN/BBC/Western Media depict Africa it is always in bad image? Wasn't it embarrassing that when Obasanjo visted USA, Bush called his country "That man's country" instead of saying Nigeria?
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Well it might not be shameful to Nigeria leaders, especially the politicians, but to some of us here it is. What is killing the country are bad leaders who practice tribalism! In Iraq, Saddam is pro-Sunni and against Kurd and Shi-ite, but still he distributes Iraqi wealth to all parts of the country. When will Nigeria produce a leader that can challenge the World Court over giving our land to Cameroon?
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When will Nigerian masses learn that violence does not pay, nor killing innocent souls over a stupid leader. Well, if I keep on mentioning Nigerian problems this page wouldn't be long enough, but ALL WE CARE ABOUT IS NIGERIA TO DEVELOP both technological, educational and industrially. With this, Nigerian masses can have a better life, better education, lots of jobs, and standard of living will improve. [ texte en entier ]
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Uzee Obi, Illinois, USA 25 Apr 2003
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Where are our so-called Nigerian leaders leading us to? Just imagine! Who would ever believe what happened? For me this is no election. Obasanjo that we all defended before the elections saw obviously that it was rigged and still came on air to say that nothing wrong happened during the elections thereby tainting his image before the world and Nigeria in particular.
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EBHABHA EDIALE JAMES, UROMI,EDO STATE,NIGERIA 25 Apr 2003
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Hello countrymen and women.
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I read all of ya'comment and they all reflect one thing - it is our country and we need to buld it together. I don't care who won the election, all I want is Nigeria to develop and be at equal level like France, UK, USA, Singapore, etc. Nigeria do have the resource to do so. Singapore and Hong-Kong gained their independence not more than 10 years now. But Singapore and Hong-Kong are developed, advance in technology and are currently becoming the banking center of world. I know Nigeria can be like that too. Me and fellow Nigeria students are tired of Nigerian bad image. That is why we started an organization called NUSA(Nigeria University Students Abroad) to help our Nigeria students back home with computers and internet access. [ texte en entier ]
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Uzee Uzo , Chicago, USA 25 Apr 2003
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The gap is much too wide both at the governorship and all other seats, PDP did their homework well. I feel sorry for AD, but the party is not democratic at all, they did not feel the pulse of their supporters. They should have realised that they can not force a horse to drink.'
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They really messed up during their primaries; We told some of their key men that they will lose the way they were going about it; In Ondo, they lost Mimiko to PDP, in Osun, they lost Omisore to PDP, Ekiti is not different, in Oyo they were warned, God just saved them in Lagos that Tinubu is good and in fact is the only credible Governor AD presented. Truly, Akande tried but his style was bad for the workers esp, we are not a communist or socialist country. AD still have a chance to take back their lost seats in the next election but should take note that the days of autocracy is gone, we know what is right for us, so no party should force anything down our throats. [ texte en entier ]
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Abiola , Ile-Ife, Nigeria 25 Apr 2003
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In fairness to nature, the ruling PDP deserves the landslide victory she achieved at the polls in the country for while the Party was working round the country to convince and mobilise support from the electorates at the right time, other political parties were busy chasing shadows in the widlerness of politics, calling for delay of the polls because of their unpreparedness. My patriotic advice for all the players is they should concede victory to the winner and offer advice to them, as well as join hands together with them if they have something to offer Nigeria and Nigerians in wholesome sincerity that is devoid of deceipt
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Abdurasaq Obe, Onitsha Anambra State, Nigeria 25 Apr 2003
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As you read or write your comments, please remember that Nigeria is a DEMOCRACY. Please understand the rules of democracy. Do not extrapolate what obtains in one city (Warri) to an entire state or to a region, talk less of the country. In an election with 10 parties, a party may win with just 40% of the votes if it has the majority. That means that 60% of the electorate did not vote for that party. Every voter must of course be INFLUENCED - by his perceptions, sentiments, logic, race, tribe, money or whatever - for him to take the trouble to vote. We must respect that vote.
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No winner will accept that there was any malpractice in the wards or states where he won, the rigging is always where they lost. [ texte en entier ]
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Paul Quassim, Mississauga, Canada 25 Apr 2003
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The problem with Nigeria is allowing known thieves to run for federal office. For the love of democracy, Nigerians should allow Obasanjo to complete his term. If Obasanjo has an atom of shame, he wouldn't have gone for the second term. History is useless for people like him.
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I congratulate Nigerians for going to the polls. Elections are never fair anywhere in the world.
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Agbu Chukwudi, U.S.A 25 Apr 2003
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I do believe that the election results reasonably reflect the wishes of the people. Though Obasanjo and others elected might not be infallible, there are hardly better alternatives in sight. We can only wish that the country gets better and better. Let us give them a chance to prove themselves.
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William Ogunbiyi, England 25 Apr 2003
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What is up with all this stuff? I mean can't we EVER have an election where there is no problem? What is democracy? Was this election just? I don't think so but we should not shed blood or get into a fit because of this.
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Let us be honest to ourselves in realizing that there is no true democracy and even in the United States elections are being rigged.
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Let us stay together and try to get past this election.
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Kemi, Angola, Indiana, USA 25 Apr 2003
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In my personal opinion,the election was free and fair; some irregularities were reported in some parts of the country, which I believe is part of the process. Nigeria has come of age because viewing the election results, you will clearly see that people are no more voting for parties but candidates of their choice. That can be clearly seen in south-west, where people voted massively for the PDP.
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Kolade Kolawole, Lagos 25 Apr 2003
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Dear Sir,
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I wish to focus on the disastrous performance of the AD governors. Thank God they have finally been dumped into the rubbish heap of poor performers. I am not surprised at all, by their monumental failure and the disgrace meted out to them at the polls.
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They have ridden on the name of the respected Awolowo for a long time. They have taken the Yoruba people for granted and for too long. They have grown arrogant in non-performance, like a drunkard boasting on how many bottles he can drink without getting drunk. They have started to think that without them, there would have been no Awolowo. They have tainted the name of Obafêmi Awolowo, with their woeful performance. They have shown that they are not true sons of Oduduwa. These governors have behaved like the bastard who sold his father's house for a bowl of pounded yam and okro soup. Through their poor performance they have reduced the old Western region into the last position on the development scale. They have sold their cherished inheritance and heritage, and their trusting people, to satisfy their puny ego. [ texte en entier ]
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Oyewale Tomori, Harare 25 Apr 2003
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Elections in Nigeria will always remind us of pre-colonial days. No election in Nigeria has ever been declared free and fair under democracy. Start recalling elections of late 1950s, 1960s,1979 and 1983. The failure of colonial era is still in place in our "obodo" Nigeria. The old politicians who wrecked the first Republic, did the same to the second, third, fourth etc. It has become a convention. Birds of the same feather, will always fly and flock together. "Nigeria is in trouble" with the old politicians, the "moneybags" May God save us all.
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Chris Etuka Obinwa, Reading, UK 25 Apr 2003
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Fellow Nigerians, Who is Buhari to say election was rigged?. If I may say Buhari was brought into this race to derail the progress,development and stability that started to grow in Nigeria by the man behind the mask, Mr Maradona; but for the Lord so loved Nigeria; their intention failed to materilised. I will give a good example. I am from Ondo state. I was at my home town Last March prior to the election I saw many development in the area but this developments were nowhere to be found last year at the same time when I traveled to home. I now ask myself what brought about this quick fix situations, the answer is election.
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What I wanted to bring out of this is that Nigerians have realised that our politician are liars, they only go there for their own and family betterment. As a result electorate voiced out their anger through their votes. That is why PDP was able to win most of south-West election. You will all agree with me that AD is a product of UPN and Ondo state is very loyal to UPN. If that is the case, what is the problem this time? I leave the answer to the individual. [ texte en entier ]
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Samuel Akinuli, London , United Kingdom 25 Apr 2003
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Whatever happened, the election has come and gone and for Nigerians, it is time to move on and stop crying over spilt milk. The people who cry the loudest about the election are those whose rigging process failed. The struggle for power is never a fair game and we should all realise that Nigeria is still a baby learning to grow up in the democratic process.
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The present regime in the USA, the Father of World democracy, got its mandate from the courts and I am very sure it never stopped them. They moved on and they are doing great things to set other nations straight. Come on, guys, let us move on and think of making Nigeria a great nation. [ texte en entier ]
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Emmanuel O. Ukattah, Greensboro NC USA 25 Apr 2003
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I must say, democracy is only just thriving in Nigeria, and we should give room and let it breathe. Losers should accept defeat with grace, and winners should get on with the business of mending the nation. Let sleeping dogs lie, man!!!!!!
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A stable democracy should be the prority for all Nigerians. These international observers who are crying foul play do not seem to understand the dynamics of politics in Nigeria, that at such a crucial stage in our political history, democratic free and fair elections may take many more years to be entrenched in our political culture. They only need to examine the wave of Nigeria public opinion and realise fragility of the situation.
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If Buhari and others wish to contest the results, they should do so, but by constitutional means, any other way that incites violence can only mean they do not have the best interest of Nigerians at heart, but, rather are only interest in the politics of personal power and partronage. [ texte en entier ]
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Rolake Akinkugbe, London 25 Apr 2003
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Most of those crying blue murder are grieving politicians who were one time or the other frustrated out of the ruling party. They had waited patiently till the election time to have their "revenge". Unfortunately for them the Nigeria electorate thought otherwise and that is the crux of their angst. They can as well bury their heads in shame because they are never known for anything that is noble.
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Seun Olonade, Lagos-Nigeria 25 Apr 2003
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It would have been unexpected if results were not challenged by the opposition. With or without rigging, PDP would still have won. In a Nation of 125 Million people one cannot rule out irregularities. If an opinion poll was conducted before the election, we would have seen PDP leading the others by wide margin.
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This may not be attributed to the outstanding performance of PDP in the last four years, but to the great relief Nigerians had after the exit of the Military and how Obasanjo has manage the transition.
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Beside a lot of setback would have been created if another party was to come in and complete all the programs PDP started these past four years. Nigeria authority is still very poor with continuity of Government objectives. It will take time to get there, but I believe we are on a right course. [ texte en entier ]
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Fred Ihegie, Canberra 25 Apr 2003
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Even the most unjust electorate result, in a country like Nigeria, is far more welcome than a military power.
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Osagie J., Italy 25 Apr 2003
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The nature of Nigerian elections had always left more to be desired. Election manipulations start at primary election levels. It is not good for any country's democracy.
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There is no reason for the repeat of the elections. The cost of such repeat and the need for Nigerian peace and democratic sustenability outweighs the crime of rigging the elections.
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Think of how many lives that were lost for these elections. And these people that died were poor innocent Nigerians. Is it fair to put more innocent and poor Nigerians on the edge to die for another election?
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What is required as I had written in my article "Nigeria democratic Flu" is for the president to [spread] appointments of people to office. He should not think that his party only won the elections. [ texte en entier ]
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Hon. Onyeke Alphaeus Onyeke, Auckland, New Zealand 25 Apr 2003
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It is not surprising that the Generals are crying foul. Who wouldn't? I would; even if it is only for the world to hear and not necessarily to change the result. Like it or not, it is over. The Generals and the other silent majority should begin now to prepare for the next election.
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J. Akuma-Kalu Njoku, Bowling Green, KY, USA 25 Apr 2003
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I WANT TO SAY THAT FOR THE INTEREST OF PEACE, ALL AGGRIEVED PARTIES SHOULD GO TO COURT AND SHOULD NOT CAUSE ANY PROBLEM TO THIS COUNTRY. IF THEY HAVE THEY [CARE ABOUT] THE DEVELOPMENT OF THIS NATION THEY SHOULD JOIN HAND WITH PRESIDENT ELECT.
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THANKS
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Iyoha Abraham, Edo State 25 Apr 2003
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I will start by commenting on what Buhari has been saying since.
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1. Has he forgotten that he promise to Islamize the whole country, and he thinks Nigerians will be ready to face religious crises like what is happening in Sudan. I guess he needs his brain examined. Because this was the same problem this country was facing when he was the head of state.
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2. During ANPP's primaries, there were lot of irregularities, he knows this and he did not say anything so it means then that he is a coward. Just because he has an evil intention for this country, he started shouting like a mad dog. Let the northerners warn him, if he tries any thing, himself and his family will face it. We cannot continue to have puppets like him in power because when he was the head of state there was nothing he offered this country than Sharia, it was Tunde Idiagbon that was ruling while he was been controlled by external forces. Nigeria needs to move ahead. [ texte en entier ]
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James, Delta 25 Apr 2003
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