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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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Alhaji Shehu Shagari finished the whole story with his comment of 'a kettle calling the pot black' The election had gone, usually the losers will always complain.
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A good politician must be able to tell good lies and stand by the lies, that is why Buhari and his co-losers are still making noise, l will ask them to try again in four years time, maybe with better homework, they will score 40%.
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Mr. President, Please accept our hearty congratulations. May GOD, who can do all things, continue to guide, direct and protect you. Remember: Isaiah Chpt 54 v 17.
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It is well.
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Tunde Oloyede, London 25 Apr 2003
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Bolaji may be right with his submission but I strongly feel if we move forward on the basis of electoral frauds and obvious irregularities then there may, indeed, not be anything to hope for in years to come.
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There are reported cases of manipulations that supposedly favour the ruling party. Spokesmen of PDP and some "analysts" have been urging aggrieved losers to channel their complaints through the proper channel(Electoral Tribunal)!!! A funny recommendation you would say. I cannot recall any of such tribunals anywhere in the world reversing the results so shamelessly announced and winner hurriedly presented with "Victory Certificate" when there are pending and crucial electoral matters awaiting resolution.
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The INEC Chairman embarrassed me with the disgusting manner in which he announced the results of the Presidential elections. It neither followed decreasing order of votes nor was alphabetical! Obviously there was no prepared speech if those glaring mistakes and side-talks witnessed are anything to be commented on. There was no National Anthem to restore sanity into the tense INEC Media Resource Centre. It was just like any of those short announcements MCs make during concert. I guess the anthem is not for The President or Governors alone. I find his "good night" gesture boastful.I may be wrong with this anyway. [ texte en entier ]
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Hammed Adewale Ibrahim, Lagos, Nigeria. 25 Apr 2003
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Nigerians everywhere should congratulate Obasanjo's win.
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You now have the rudiments of a democratic government.Rome was not built in a day.We do not want any military government in any form or shape.
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In a democracy,the rule of law must prevail. Let the aggrieved go to Courts and seek justice.
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The role of the government is to ensure the Courts are impartial and free from duress.
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Regards,
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Kemi london,ENGLAND 25 Apr 2003
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It looks as if Nigerian politicians does not want to accept defeat, as the matter stands, the peace officers should not embrace the propagandas of those corrupt politicians playing dirty game on the people.
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Everyone should relax and let the winner Olusegun Obasanjo do his job. Infact he (President Obasanjo) and his administration should declare a mandate to prosecute anyone who propagate violence.
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Violence should not be tolerated in Nigeria. Unless the government comes down on those who break the law, the rest of the people will continue to do so. It should be simple, violent behavior gets severe punishment. Set an example and others will learn.
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Ralph. Aninwaishiovuishiukwa, Lawndale CA United States 25 Apr 2003
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Yes, the election was free and fair. It was the best ever held in Nigeria since I was born (27yrs). But as usual, the bad loser syndrome has infected Buhari, Ojukwu and the AD and this is why they are making stupid noise. Imagine, they can't even go to the election panel! It shows their mischievious and sinister motives for calling for the cancellation. God is greater than them. Ride on Obasanjo/Atiku!
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barbytee, Nigeria 24 Apr 2003
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A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO MR. OLUSEGUN OBASANJO AND OTHER PDP PARTY AFFILIATES, ESPECIALLY THOSE WHO WON AND ALL OTHERS FOR TRYING.NIGERIANS HAVE TO KNOW THAT THIS IS NOT THE TIME FOR A REGIME CHANGE. WE ARE STILL WORKING WITH OUR GLOBAL PARTNERS TO COMBAT TERRORISM. OBASANJO REPRESENTS THE INTEREST OF THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY AND NEEDS ANOTHER TERM. WE DO NOT NEED ANOTHER NEWCOMER.TO THIS END, WE SHOULD ALL GIVE OBASANJO THE SUPPORT HE AND HIS PARTY MEMBERS NEEDS TO FURTHER ADDRESS THE COUNTRY'S FUTURE. WE ASKED FOR DEMOCRACY AND HERE WE HAVE IT.THE TASTE OF THE PUDDING LIES IN THE EATING..... GOD BLESS NIGERIA AND WHATEVER THE FUTURE HOLDS.
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SAM IJOMA, LAUREL,MARYLAND,USA 24 Apr 2003
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The result of the just-concluded elections in Nigeria epitomizes what is intrinsically wrong with my beloved country: institutionalized corruption, official greed, avarice, win-at-all-costs and damn everything and everybody else.
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In a healthy and civilized society, Mr. Obasanjo should not have run in 1999, talk less of standing for re-election and getting re-elected in 2003. As military head-of-state in 1979, he did not have the guts to bring the general election that ushered Mr. Shagari to power to a conclusive and just end.
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He was sprung from jail in 1999 to hijack a political outfit that he had no hand in forming and was propelled into office by the vast finances of his retired but connected army colleagues who saw him as a safe choice. Indeed he was, for them. A living testimony is Mr. Babangida who is sitting pretty today and no legal authority has been able to get him to answer to charges levelled against him. Nigeria is no better today than it was when Mr. Obasanjo took over in 1999 for the second time. [ texte en entier ]
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Bright Ukandu, USA 24 Apr 2003
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The 'average' person on the street is more interested in getting through each day with food in his belly. Students are eager to get back to school, pensioners are crying out, so much needs to be done and yet so much effort and funds are being used to 'fight' for political offices. When those who've lost this time, win the next time, what next? Does the cycle end? Won't the losers of the next time cry "foul", elections rigging, etc.?
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Please let's tackle relevant issues and not the cries over spilt milk.
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Rogainee, Algeria 24 Apr 2003
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The election generally is a shame, there is no point in a repeat election because it will mean spending more money, but at the end there will be no garrentee of a free and fair election. I do not think Nigeria is ready for a true democracy. All the members of both parties are all fighting for one thing - that is money for themselves. None of them has the interest of the country at heart.It is a big disgrace!!!
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Pat Umanah, United States 24 Apr 2003
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I have read with alacrity the outrageous comments about the so-called rigging of the Nigerian Election, INEC says that it was a well-organized, supervised election and certified it. So, by whose standards are these disgrunted voices screaming at the top of their voices that the Election was rigged? Or is it that, because their parties and friends lost the election, it was rigged?
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If PDP won the election hands down, then, more grease to their elbows. Good luck to them, probably they have the best game plan. We Nigerians always mistrust ourselves and have no respect or dignity for our fellow Nigerians. We should learn by now, how to be a good loser and a great winner.
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In Chicago, where I have lived for over 30 years now, once an election is completed, despite cries of rigging or irregularities during voting, the various parties come together by having a breakfast meeting and reconcile among themselves for the good of the City and the Community. And Life goes on. [ texte en entier ]
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Ben Tokunbo Macarthy, Chicago, IL. USA 24 Apr 2003
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Nigeria I sorry!!!!!!
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kaycee4you, Ajegunle, Lagos 24 Apr 2003
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Buhari and Obasanjo were military men, but look at past glory of both - just look at Nigeria's image and economy damaged by long rule of the army. There is no democracy in Nigeria, all these military men in civilian should go, we want new names and new faces not all these old faces.
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Joe Aigbe, Padova, Italy 24 Apr 2003
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It will be more mature for the losers of the last presidential election to accept defeat than to make inciting statements. Buhari's post-election speech is disapointing, does not relate to his popular war against indiscipline(WAI).
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The ANPP made a great mistake choosing Buhari to run for presidency. The only way he can become president in Nigeria is by millitary coup. It is unfortunate that the people of Nigeria will never go back to millitary rule. The election is over, people should emulate the example of USA, who accepted George Bush although Gore claimed he won the election. Nigeria needs a little stability and continuity in the Government. The winners of the last election should work hard to unite the country, educate the masses and provide employment opportunities. [ texte en entier ]
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Otto Umana, Wilmington, NC USA 24 Apr 2003
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It is utterly ridiculous to even think that these people crying wolf should have won this election. Both men played tribal or religous politics and are now crying that Nigerians did not buy their divisive lies. I thought the President was more tolerant and more democratic minded than those sore losers. They need to change their visions for Nigeria and understand that most Nigerians worry about the basic needs of life more than regional, tribal or religous politics or sentiment. Hopefully, Nigerians will continue to emerge above the flaws of the past. I never really supported Obasanjo but he won the election and those who will not accept the results until they win should follow the legal means to redress their grieviances. [ texte en entier ]
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Engr. Louis Onu, New Orleans, Louisiana USA 24 Apr 2003
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When you call yourself a thief, people will have no option but to call you a thief. That is the case with most of the opposition parties that took part in the elections in Nigeria. Before the elections were conducted, Buhari had started saying that he was not going to accept the result if he was not declared the winner. That tells the world how unprepared he was for the election and he thought he would declare himself the winner the way he did on the December 31, 1983.
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What made him think that he would win a presidential election in Nigeria that is freely and fairly conducted? He should realize that not all Nigerians have forgotten his overthrow of Government in 1983. Buhari, please, go and enjoy your retirementand your wealth and leave us alone. [ texte en entier ]
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Daniel Abba, Durban- South Africa 24 Apr 2003
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I love the Nigerian people and soon will be marrying one. It really hurts to see how there is so much violence and such bad politics. Did you all forget the people??
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I feel that how will you have a more stable and peaceful Nigeria if you don't have a stable and peaceful elections. Because of greedy politicians I think it will take time for this to pass. But unfair elections do not serve the people.
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Why is this happening? What is this all about in the 1st place? Why are we having elections - it is to better yourselves and your country and when you resort to violence it only makes things worse not better.
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If things cannot get resolved this time around, you should find someone you know and know could be a good leader with the people in mind and isn't led by money but is led by people and for the people. [ texte en entier ]
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Sherry Birkinbine, US 24 Apr 2003
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PDP cabals have done it again, after doing it to Dr. Alex Ekwueme at the PDP primaries. It is a shame that PDP did not get rid of the military in 1999. This curse have been consuming them all, and now destroying Nigeria.
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Obasanjo is not the born-again christian messiah, but a born-again military mafia. They have made their bed, and they will lay down on it. I feel sorry for the masses, the poor and the hungry.
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Democracy has been butchered!
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Maduka Nzoiwu, Tracy, CA 24 Apr 2003
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The most important thing we should be talking about is how to move the country forward. The interest of the country must be first by bringing all parties under one umbrella.
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Those of us outside the country are looking foreword to see improvement in security and stability in all area of social amenities, you should foreget about election and work together as one Nigeria.
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God Bless Nigeria, God bless you all.
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Obomakin, London-UK 24 Apr 2003
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Having spent most of his time in the Nigerian military and being very much a part of the military dictatorship that ruined and plundered Nigeria socially and economically, one does not expect Obasanjo to have the education or the civilisation required for a democratic election.
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Obasanjo and his military cohorts bungled the election with rigging, ballot box stuffing, figure manipulation and declared themselves winners. Obasanjo's government has remained a continuum of military dictatorship in the disguise of a civilian democracy.
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With the attendant economic failures of his government, the highest unemployment rate after the civil war, uncontrolled spree of ethnic violence,neglect of the University education, non payment of salaries et cetera, no reasonable Nigerian actually voted for him and he is aware of this. No wonder why he bungled the election. Nigeria is rated the second most corrupt nation in the world and Obasanjo and his cohorts have proved it in the election. The opposition will make the mistake of the century by arguing their case before the Nigerian judiciary which is the most corrupt judiciary in the world. What the opposition should do is to start immediate massive demonstration as occured in Yugoslavia when Milosovic bungled the election; at the same time the opposition should call USA and Europian Union to intervene. After all, both the Europian Union and USA observers witnessed the corruption in the election. [ texte en entier ]
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Abdulahi Magaji, New York , USA 24 Apr 2003
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As a Nigerian living outside the country I have closely followed news reports of the events surrounding the elections that held recently and my observations are based on what I believe is a rational analysis of the events rather than an emotional reaction.
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Firstly it is clear to everyone that the elections were not remotely at bad and as violent as was predicted and the turnout was very high but not ridiculously so. This to my mind is an achievement worth celebrating. If we take the worst case scenario (the combination of the worst reports from observers especially that of the Europeans and Americans, who take joy in rubbishing everything African).
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Observers were totally free to access all the polling stations and observe any and all irregularities; this again, to my mind, is worth celebrating. According to the worst reports, irregularities occurred in 12 out of 36 states - i.e in 24 states the elections were well above board - a definite passmark for a nation just starting out in civilian to civilian transition! [ texte en entier ]
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Uche, London UK 24 Apr 2003
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I felt so good about the outcome of the elections, even though there were some irregularities. The Nigerian people have become more enlightened and sophisticated than some so-called politicians give them credit for. When you objectively and sincerely analyze the results, the real losers were the AD party but for good reasons. The people of the south-west critically and objectively examined their leaders and voted according to their perceived performance. I was not surprised that only Governor Tinubu survived that test because I believe also that he exhibits a vision and I hope he is able to better transform Lagos State.
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Let the rest of Nigeria take a cue from the south-west experience. The people of the south-west demonstrated that they are no longer mesmerised by name only, but by accomplishment and vision. In time, the rest of Nigeria will follow the same path. [ texte en entier ]
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Jubel Adenekan, New York, U.S.A. 24 Apr 2003
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It is very unfortunate that after 43 years of independence, Nigeria cannot hold its head high among the comity of nations and conduct a free and fair election.
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Judging from what we hear and see on the internet, in one state I am very sure that the incumbent governor chimaroke Nnamani was not expected to have been re-elected considering that he performed poorly for the past four years and he was rigged into power.
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However, we the young ones are learning from our fathers the way politics should be played in Nigeria, that is, whoever hires the highest number of armed bandits wins. We will arrange to start our own politics by bringing into the country hired assassins armed bandits and suicide bombers, since our fathers cannot lay a good example for us. [ texte en entier ]
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Sunny Joseph Okeke, Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa 24 Apr 2003
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I hope we can all learn that the current system will only superimpose players in the current political process who have sponsorship and campaign money... to even think of contesting you must have solid financial means. You cannot lobby, for no sponsors will come to your aid if you can't throw your weight around and be a major player... This on its own is a huge letdown and it gives a false picture of the April 2003 elections.
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Olusheyi Kasali, Dublin, Eire 24 Apr 2003
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Following the just concluded Governorship/Presidential elections, it is obvious that what went on was a rape to this nascent democracy. Instead of free and fair elections which was promised what went on was clear case of election malpractices, violence from every side and abuse of fundamental human rights. The so-called Ruling party took advantage of this election to tell the country that they can do anything at anytime and nothing will happen.
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I don't think we can accept this. All hands should be on deck let us fight these corrupt leaders. This election must be cancelled. We need fresh election.
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Victor Wolemonwu, Port Harcourt, Nigeria 24 Apr 2003
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I think it is deplorable that the Nigerian elections went the way they did, with the Peoples' Democrative Party being accused of election malpractices. However, the picture may not be as dismal as it is being painted by the international media. Consolidating democracy, for every Nigerian to have a say and opportunity for further development and correction in the future, I think overides the misunderstanding that the reported malpractices may have caused. The aggrieved candidates are not any different from those who out-rigged them at the polls. You cannot commit election fraud in Nigeria where you are not popular. It has always backfired in a country almost addicted to mass violence. Mr Buhari and the rest should get busy at something productive and allow the Nigerian project to succeed. [ texte en entier ]
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Bolaji Olugbemisoye, Agege, Lagos, Nigeria 24 Apr 2003
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After reading different comments from fellow Nigerians, all I could say is "give peace a chance". Our country, after the independence in 1960, has only enjoyed a five-year period of peace and stability. To all of us that have lived these period till date, will understand what I mean.
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Like me, many live outside our country - for one reason or the other. We supposed to have learned from the politics of the different countries we live in- is there 100% democracy in the country we live in?
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It's high time we changed our way of thinking. Why can't we all start thinking of - "how can I contribute to the welfare and progress of my country - Nigeria?
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Fellow citizens, no magic, no external force will help us to build - I didn't say rebuild - our country,because it's still under construction since it became a republic in 1963. Let's try to remember the poem -"little drops of water, little grains of sand, make the mighty ocean and the pleasant land" always. If we love ourselves,we will love our country. May God bless us and our country. [ texte en entier ]
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'DEINDE VAUGHAN, La Paz, B.C.S,MEXICO 24 Apr 2003
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I think all aggrieved politicians should seek redress through the election tribunals and allow the populace to live peacefully through a civilian to civilian transition. Otherwise the politicians should be the ones to go on hungerstrikes or man matches around protesting instead of inciting the civil society
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Ebere, Abuja, Nigeria 24 Apr 2003
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I congratulate Obasanjo and his collegues, whether they win the election or not, Buhari cannot win Obasanjo. He should just stop making a noise.
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Thanks.
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Mary
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Mrs Mary, Lagos, Nigeria 24 Apr 2003
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We cannot talk of election in Nigeria. It is simply selection. The most pathetic is Omisore who won from detention camp. It is only God that will see us through in Nigeria. PDP as a party has decided to remain in power by all means.
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PLEASE GOD, SAVE YOUR CHILDREN.
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Engr. Adibe, Port Harcourt 24 Apr 2003
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The results of the elections which many say do not represent the will of the people should be challenged because they have been massively rigged. In Africa, most leaders find it difficult to relinquish power. But if Nigeria is serious in enthroning democracy, it must see that players play the game in line with laid down rules.
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Uganwa Charles, London, Uk 24 Apr 2003
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Despite the negative predictions of bloodshed, the peaceful conduct of Nigerian elections has been a great plus for Nigeria and Nigerians. Albeit the elections are said to be rigged, I think the most important thing is for us to pray for a continued peace. After all, politics is a human game!
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However, let the purported leaders know that thousands are dying as a result of hunger and poverty, bad roads, inadequate and inefficient health services and general insecurity. Let the new Obasanjo-led government show to Nigerians and to the whole world that it can solve most, if not all the basic problems that are confronting Nigeria. If elections could be that perfectly rigged, then good life should also be rigged for the Nigerian people. [ texte en entier ]
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Frank Oko, Tokyo, Japan 24 Apr 2003
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The issue here is not about who won or lost the elections but whether the elections were free and fair. From all indications, including reports from monitoring agencies, the elections were blatantly and ruthlessly rigged in favour of the ruling party in all the elections. In Warri, for instance, when news came out that the AD candidate had won the elections, it was celebration galore throughout the nook and cranny of the state. When news later came that the Govenor has been re-elected, you could see the disappointment on the faces of the masses.
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A bad precedent has been set and if allowed to hold would only get worse in subsequent elections. All the elections should be cancelled and new ones held. If not, I am not a prophet or seer but one thing I can see, this republic will hadly endure the next four year. Watch out. [ texte en entier ]
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Gragra, Warri, Nigeria 24 Apr 2003
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Both Obasanjo and Buhari are Birds of the same feathers. They should allow the poor man to rest, jo.
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Ordinarily I would not have commented on the recent outcome of the Nigerian elections at all levels, but because it appears most people are taking what just happened as a very serious exercise, I feel compelled to make this comment.
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What happened was an interplay of various business interests groups in action in Nigeria in the name of politics. Whoever imagined that at the end of the day, the outcome of the recent election will be devoid of rigging and so on must be dreaming. Remember that there is no morality in business!!! Buhari and Obasanjo and other Generals at one point or the other have destroyed our economy beyond repair. The PTF wahala, Global gallivanting in the name of seeking for investors are clear examples of who these people are. Is it the Ikemba Ojukwu or who? They are all murderers, and should stop killing our children, parents, mothers, brothers and sisters. The voices and blood of the innocent masses/voters will haunt them until they all die. [ texte en entier ]
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Avreson Kigbu, Manchester, United Kingdom 24 Apr 2003
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I think we Nigerians should be looking to improve and develop our country and not allow any fraudster to be our president. We can see that during the four years, all these governors and the president have done is embezzle our money. I think we need to think hard and twice before electing a leader. I think Obasanjo is a bad leader and he should not be allowed to rule for any four years because before we realize it all our money will be gone.
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Tope, London, United Kingdom 24 Apr 2003
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CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL WINNERS. IT IS ABOUT TIME THAT NIGERIANS START THINKING ABOUT PEACE, LET'S ALL SUPPORT THE WINNERS AND MOVE ON WITH OUR LIVES. I BELIEVE THAT NIGERIA IS GETTING BETTER. WE ARE THE ONES TO BUILT OUR COUNTRY ,WE ALL NEED TO SUPPORT OUR COUNTRY, NIGERIA. THANKS
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CLARA A OWOLABI, SIOUX CITY IOWA USA 24 Apr 2003
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The 419 (April 19) Election is a rape on democracy. Most results announced for South-East, South-South and some States in The North are completely fraudulent and defy logic. In the Nigeria of today, democracy has been raped just before dawn and I am scared what the rapists will do in the daylight of the next four years. Nevertheless, I urge my fellow Nigerians to give peace a chance and tolerate this government that lacks credibility and legitimacy, otherwise the road to ivory coast, Sierra Leone, Liberia and DR of Congo will be too long to travel.
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Engr G.C. Amos, Abuja, FCT Nigeria 24 Apr 2003
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This is a time of great caution for our great nation and people in Nigeria. While there are no doubts about some of the irregularities stated, are these enough to question the whole process? Posterity will not forgive us all, if we let some few selfish, disgruntled and bad losers derail this transition process.
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The reports on the last elections are quite disturbing as people continue to over-emphasize only the negative aspects of it. Most disturbing is that fact that the views being expressed are simply of three groups; (i) the politicians; (ii) Nigerians living abroad, and (iii) the International Observers, without anyone seeking or presenting the views of the average Nigerians who actually made their choices through their votes. [ texte en entier ]
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Dipo, Lagos, Nigeria 24 Apr 2003
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No election is 100% free and fair. The results should stand since, in African elections, there are no good losers. PDP is capable of correcting the Nigerian image and economy damaged by the long rule of the army.
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Toni Ugwude, Nsukka,Enugu state, Nigeria 24 Apr 2003
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The entire election was a disgrace to the nation, because of the rigging in many states. But we should learn to be good sportsmen, by showing magnanimity and humility in victory, galantry, and good naturedness in defeat.
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NICK JOMO JONES NWEKE, ROME, ITALY 24 Apr 2003
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My Fellow Nigerians, critizing on who won or who lost the election has no solution to our problems; rather let's join hands to work for the good of our Country.
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Miss Chiakaiheome Amaugo, Rome, Italy 24 Apr 2003
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Nigerians probably noted the devils they knew. President Obasanjo is truly a great survivalist. He has inherited three pairs of shoes which rightly belonged to three dead men - Murtala, Abiola, Yar'Adua, then he invited one owner of another possible pair- Bola Ige - into his cabinet. We all know the result of that poisoned apple - Bola and AD dead.
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Prometeo, Epimeteo and Pandora are all there in this comedy, but Nigerians will do better to take sides with Prometeo. Obasanjo is decidedly Epimeteo.
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Victor Patrick Akpan, Florence, Italy 24 Apr 2003
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I think Nigeria should learn more about democracy. They are just there sharing money.
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J.Obiora, China 24 Apr 2003
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Well, to start with, all should note that PDP has now redefined Democracy as - "Government of the rich, by the rich, and for the rich".
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This being the case, we all as Nigerians are gonna have a long drawn-out battle with forces that now want to redefine democracy.
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For me, I am a non-partisan, self-employed youth; all I want is to have fuel around, electricity and some clean water.
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For a start, maybe we should forget government and ask the oil companies - Shell to supply us with these basic amenities and we can leave the other issues to the politicians.
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People with truth and conscience should now avail themselves of the civilized medium of Technology and telecommunication to instill humane behaviour amongst the leadership. [ texte en entier ]
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Ken, Port Harcourt, Nigeria 24 Apr 2003
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I would like to firstly congratulate INEC for a job well done at their first trial in conducting a peaceful election. Let's assume there were some problems in six states as claimed by the European and Commonwealth group observers.
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My question to them is this: are they claiming that all the polling stations in those states rigged? If yes then congratulation to PDP for a job well done. I am sure if the total votes cast for the six states are given to Buhari he will still not have enough votes to claim victory and why does Buhari think he has a right to win and Obasanjo has no right?
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For the foreign observers, I am sure they are very dissapointed that the scale of violence expected did not materialise. I wonder if the only time an election will be free and fair by their foreign standard is when the opposition wins? [ texte en entier ]
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Smart Binitie, PDP Chairman, Republic of Ghana Chapter, Accra Ghana 24 Apr 2003
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I think we Nigerians should be happy that a tyrant such as Buhari was never given the mandate to rule a nation, he overthrew a legitimate president 20 years ago; history will never forgive him. Aikhomu (former Babangida's vice-dictator) should go to hell, he does not represent the Ishan-people nor their interest, he is still looking for money after embezzling much money during Babangida's time in office. Finally the election result is a true reflection of what Nigerians mean; by rejecting Sharia and her main advocate - Buhari. NO APPEAL IN HEAVEN, NO appeal in the collective voice of Nigerians
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Onyisi, Denmark 24 Apr 2003
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Fellow Countrymen!
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Having read the opinions of many of us, it is strongly felt that we should just bury the hatchets, and try to forge ahead. Let's stop crying over split milk; instead, let's continue to pray and wish our country well. As a matter of fact, I am yet to come across a perfect democracy anywhere. You may only succeed in finding people who are law-abiding and governable. Such people do demonstrate their belief in the Almighty God by not taking the laws into their own hands, but instead by committing matters unto HIM who is able to do all things, in prayer, realising that everything has its limits, only as allowed by God.
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This should also be our posture now and always, if we are to make any headway. Opinions that should be expressed now, and which will be considered mature and intelligible, is that which will suggest ways forward for our dear battered country! You may concede a re-election now, only to end up having a worse outcome - because, every contestant would want to win anyway! [ texte en entier ]
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Achionye, J.N.C, Houston, Texas. 24 Apr 2003
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Fellow Nigerians, with the massive rigging by Obasanjo and the PDP and including the total control of all the houses, does anyone think the 2007 election will not be a repeat of 2003?
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The next election will be a repeat, if the PDP gets away with the current rigging. Who is to stand in their way; the military that has been bought? The police or INEC?
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Let's face it, we are headed for a one-party state controlled by the retired generals who are billionaires without a single factory that produces even a hand-woven basket.
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Opposition will be suppressed in the name of keeping the peace; what makes the country any better compared to a military administration or police state? God help us. [ texte en entier ]
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Sunday Madu, Dallas, TX, USA 24 Apr 2003
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The best thing Obasanjo could do to make history and a legacy for himself, is to call for re-election in areas that have reportedly been shamelessly rigged, even in front of foreign observers.
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I believe he may still win but not by the wide margin reported. The last thing Nigeria needs is a one party-state and given the penchant to remain incumbent for life, Nigeria might as well be under military rule.
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At least there won't be all these ministers to loot the treasury; by this I means fewer hands in the cookie jar.
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Given widespread poverty, mass unemployment, indifference to striking universities, delapidated roads, neglect of the Delta oil producing states, incoherent national planning and wanton looting of the Nigerian treasury, I find it hard that Nigerians voted for another four years of the same. [ texte en entier ]
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Kanayo Nmadu, Dallas, USA 24 Apr 2003
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Nigeria as a country is fraud and you don't expect their activities to be legal. Until people realize that the experiment has failed and liberate every nation in Nigeria, there will never be success and peace in that country.
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They should divide that country [so that] every nation [can] go and build their homes. Nigeria as experimental material has failed and people should realize that now.
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Chuka, Johannesburg. 24 Apr 2003
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The PDP, from all facts available, rigged the elections because, one, the party wanted to deal with some opposing governors and parliamentarians (except Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Lagos State who is a personal friend to Vice President Atiku and possible running mate of Atiku come 2007).
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Two, they want to turn Nigeria to a one party state de facto. Thus before the next elections in 2007, the remaining 29 political parties must have died a natural death.
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Dele Ikusaanu, Ilesha, Osun State, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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In the history of elections in Nigeria, this is about the next fairest election after that of June 12. The truth is that Nigerian politicians have not imbibed the spirit of sportsmanship while playing politics and that is why they usually play politics to the last drop of blood of the common man.
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In any situation of competition, some are bound to have an edge over others; but our politicians have never come to reality with this. In any case, allegation of massive rigging has always been a ready-made excuse among politicians when in reality the first strategy available to virtually all Nigerian politicians when it comes winning election is rigging.
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Nigeria must progress, therefore no amount of negative description must be allowed to derail the democracy project. The beauty of this election is that Nigerians have to vote out those they do not want any longer, a healthy development for democracy to survive. Instead of complaining, losers should start thinking of how to better their chances in 2007 elections. [ texte en entier ]
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Abdulrasheed. A. Muhammad, Ilorin, Kwara state, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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It is funny that Salihu Zarma should mention that Nigerians are not celebrating. I ask him what should they celebrate, the fact that God has been so kind not to hand them over to the worst of two evils?
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I remember there was a time Nigeria had an exchange rate of 45 kobo to $US1.00, Obasanjo was head of state back then and things were not so bad, in fact, one could say the future looked rosy until Shagari and his boys wrecked it all.
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The military came in under the guise of repairing the situation and if anyone with a memory can remember, they really tried; but you had Nigerians complaning loudly as usual and before you could say "coup", there was Babangida and his boys announcing to us that he was effectively our new manager of state! [ texte en entier ]
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Taofik Onasanya, Canada 23 Apr 2003
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Elections are as good as the people and the systems that generate them. Because of the level of corruption in Nigeria, even the results of great elections will be questioned. We are learning the leason very well: nothing will ever work in Nigeria until the social contract is re-examined. I don't see how we can expect a great election by a badly flawed social system.
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Nicholas , Phoenix, Arizona, USA 23 Apr 2003
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Let us all learn from the American experience. Let us rally round the president and make the nation not only governable but also to make appreciable progress, so that all the good people that fled the country during the tyrannic rule of the past military may return home to build our blessed nation. If all hands are on deck together we can turn the economy of our nation around.
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Erinfolami, Bronx, New York 23 Apr 2003
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Thanks for the chance given me to air my view on the recent elections in Nigeria. First of all let me categorically tell my fellow Nigerias that there is no democracy in Nigeria. What we have in Nigeria is democra-thief - government of the thieves, by the thieves. As a Nierian I can tell you for free that there is no free and fair elections in the dictionary of Nigeria, and there will be none as long as the yoppies, the elite, and die-hard money politics are concerned. Cancelling the already held election or going to court will not yield any contrary or different result either, as long as the incumbent is concerned; believe me or not, no Nigerian serving judge will rule against him, it will be death warrant for him or her. Thus, I hereby call on my fellow country men and women to let bygone be bygone and let's move on. Until the day, all Nigerians will collectively say "enough is enough" for this false culture of rigging, and false ideology of winning at all cost, no matter whatever it takes to win. That will be the day we shall see true democracy. [ texte en entier ]
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Matthias Iorboh Idyu, Pittsburgh, PA., USA. 23 Apr 2003
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I don't know if the Nigerian elections were "fair." What I do know is that the US media portrays Obasanjo in a negative way. So I feel that a country's sovereignty is worth whatever potential dominators want to bring. The important focus is that the people indigenous to the land have the freedom of self-determination as regards their humanity and control over land and natural resources.
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mavac, Philly, USA 23 Apr 2003
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Uncle Sege has done wonderful things for Nigeria since he became our president. We need people like him, not the Okadigbo gangs. He believes in democracy and he showed this by handing over the government to a civilian in 1979. This time around he was dragged into politics by other well-meaning Nigerians after his emotional ordeal with Gen. Abach. He won this election, please let him ruleand continue his good work. God bless president Obasanjo and have mercy on Nigeria. Amen
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Dr. Moses Alatishe, Moncton, NB, Canada 23 Apr 2003
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Personally, I think the elections reflected, to a large extent, the wishes of the people. Elections all over the world including the US are not without some level of frauds but the question is; are those frauds enough to quell the overwhelming wishes of the people? Prior to the elections, opinion polls favoured the incumbent president so why the hullaballoo about his victory? I think those complaining are only playing to the gallery and are not being sincere and objective in their utterances.
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Take for instance the ousting of the AD governor in Oyo State by PDP. I have continuously said it for over a year before the elctions that AD will lose Oyo if they present Lam Adesina as their governorship candidate because of his non-performance. A governor that only thought it wise to repair the roads in the state just 2-5 months before elections should have known that the people are no fools to fall for such a gimmick. [ texte en entier ]
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Sanya Dawodu, Stavanger-Norway 23 Apr 2003
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There are 2 incontestable facts: (1) the elections were not free and fair in some critical parts of Nigeria, and (2) the leading candidates have virtually no democratic credentials to speak of. What do these facts tell us? Many things, but perhaps the most important message is this: Nigerian democrats should start organizing seriously to build genuinely democratic parties that will play by the rules of democratic elections in future.
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Rastaman Obi, New York, USA 23 Apr 2003
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It has been interesting reading the different comments made by Nigerians about the last elections in our dear country. My opinion is that perfect elections don't exist anywhere - the last presidential elections in countries like the U.S. and in France where there is a long history of democracy testify to this. Personally, I think the large majority of votes won by the PDP could be a positive thing for the new government. Besides, if the losers (who I beleive cannot claim honestly not to have cheated either) are not happy with the results of the elections they should seek redress by legal and constitutional means, as resorting to violence would only be counter-productive. We should just move ahead and give Obasanjo a chance to prove his real worth as, with such a large majority, he shouldn't have any reasons not to show positive results at the end of his second term in office. [ texte en entier ]
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Francis, Toulouse, France 23 Apr 2003
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I really do not understand what the noise is all about. Even if INEC were to overturn the results in the three states where the opposition has alledged widespread malpractice, Obasanjo would still have won! The truth is that Buhari is no match for Uncle Sege even if the latter has been dissapointing for the past 4 years. What I am more concerned about is the Gubernatorial elections especially in the South South and South East...Igbinedion, Ibori, Odili, Alamasyiegha, Orji Uzor are all crooks that should have been voted out (like the AD govs) if not for money politics and intimidation tactics employed by them. I dare say that they and their cohorts were responsible for the widespread fraud noticed in their respective areas. Those of us that have lived and worked in these areas know how these men and their colleagues in the state government loot the resources that should have accrued to the impoverished locals. These men should not be allowed any RESOURCE CONTROL! [ texte en entier ]
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Yinka Nerry, NJ, United States 23 Apr 2003
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Rigging was universal to all parties and an embarrassing but realistic indicator of our level of political development. The only remedy is to move on and congratulate the winner, for even among thieves there should be honour, or alternatively to head for the electoral tibunal which is the only legal channel for redress; if however Buhari thinks any ordinary Nigerian will take to the streets in his favour, he must still be dreaming and he needs to wake up.
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Emeka Onwuocha, Abuja, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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It is amazing how PDP and its agents, particularly the Independent Electoral Commission, disenfranchized millions of eligible Nigerian voters in the just concluded general election. How would Obasanjo look at the faces of Nigerians and say he won the presidential election given all the cheating orchestrated by his party men on his behalf in the election. Shame.
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Clement Asuoha, Kansas City, Missouri, USA 23 Apr 2003
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This election can only be described as daylight robbery. An election where the so-called winner appears in his acceptance speech like a thief caught in the sudden glare of light. Hesitant, cagey and unsure.
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An election where the 'victors' are still not celebrating. Apparently unconvinced that such blatant fraud can achieve any semblance of legitimacy.
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This is a disgrace to all Nigerians of good conscience.
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Salihu Zarma, Maiduguri, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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I think the election was "rigged". For a long time in Nigeria all sides have never have candidates running for presidency except for this year, which has produced candidates from North( Hausas), the East (Igbo), the west (yourbas) and then South. My qustion is, why would the Hausas vote for Obasanjo when they have Buhari? Or why would the Igbos vote for Obasanjo when they have Ojukwu?. This is just plain crazy and there is no justification whatsoever for it. We the youths of Nigeria are tired of old men ruling our country without any form of improvement.I am waiting for the day Nigeria will have a real "free and fair election"
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naija4life, United States 23 Apr 2003
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It's undeniably true that the elections of April 19 were marred by electoral irregularities in isolated states of Nigeria. But the irregularities are not sufficient to invalidate the credibility of the elections. Electrocracy, which most people mistake for democracy, has no in-built institutional mechanisms or safeguards against fraud in elections. Elections even in the United States are often fraught with fraud. It is too much to expect Nigeria to transcend this abiding institutional defect inherent in electocracy. But it must be admitted that elections, in spite of their limitations, are about the only instruments we can deploy to approximate the popular wishes of the people.
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The elections of April 2003 may not be immune from irregularities, but their outcome reflects the most accurate approximation of the choice of the Nigerian people. [ texte en entier ]
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Farooq A. Kperogi, Abuja, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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I am alarmed by what one of the earlier contributors, Ifedi Obioma, said about the 419 elections. My fear is that 419 courts and 419 election tribunals are going to be the ones who will hear the electoral complaints and will surely deliver a 419 verdicts.
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Where are we heading to?
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Iyke Onovo, Enugu, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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I sincerely wish to comment on this issue of all the 2003 elections in Nigeria. Following the incessant reports through BBC and CNN ,we the indigenes of Nigeria have come to the support of UNDP ,ANPP ,APGA and other political parties who are calling for the cancellation of both presidential and guber elections.
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From all indications, the election was not free and fair; therefore if we allows the sleeping dog to lie it means continuation of injustices ,abuse of human rights and the suffering of the poor masses.
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I am not saying this because I am the poorest but there are other Nigerians who cannot complain out of fear of victimisation. We need to revolutionise Nigeria for the younger generation, otherwise the ever living God cannot and will never forgive all the politicians in Nigeria . [ texte en entier ]
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Chitto Obi H., Burgenland, Austria 23 Apr 2003
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I think that the evil that men do will continue to live after them. I will say three things.
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First, if Muhammadu Buhari was interested in democracy, why did he topple a democratically elected government in 1984 (that the government he toppled was utterly corrupt is irrelevant here)? And to make matters worse, guess who his running mate is? Chuba Okadigbo. I will leave you to conduct some investigation on his activities in the Senate over the last four years.
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Second, if Ojukwu was interested in democracy, why did he organise and orchestrate the rebellion known as the Nigerian Civil War from 1967-1970? Why should Nigeria be governed by an unrepentant rebel and secessionist? Will this create the stability Nigeria badly needs? [ texte en entier ]
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Ayopo Odunuga, Calgary, Canada 23 Apr 2003
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Nigerian leaders should learn to accept defeat in elections. They shold take examples from AD, Gali Na'abba,and Kwankwaso and even Al Gore. Rivers state, Bayelsa and Anambra state PDP spoilt our election which otherwise was free and fair. The fact that elections were manipulated in six out of 36 states is not enough to affect the integrity of the elections. I do not think the EU observers have the interest of Nigeria in their report. To be fair to INEC they did a wonderful job
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Isah Samaila, lagos 23 Apr 2003
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It is a statement of fact that in the field of human interaction, there are bound to be positive or negative results. The last general elections in Nigeria have gone a long way to prove this axiom.
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It is also in the nature of man that when he gets a little authority, he exercises unrighteous dominion. Such could be said of all the players in the elections, whatever part of the ideological divide they might find themselves.
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The elections were what Nigerians needed to confound sceptics on our ability to manage ourselves. We might not have been perfect, but at least, we have made a statement of fact that, given the right circumstances, we can conduct our own affairs.
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It will be foolhardy for anybody to suggest, or expect that the elections were free and fair. It was all a question of who had the upperhand in the perpetuation of fraud. But we must move on. Different parties had their different strongholds, and it would not have been possible to penetrate such strongholds to perpetrate fraud. So let us move on because the energy that could be dissipated on trying to right the wrongs in a country where injustice is a rule rather than the exception could have been chanelled into other productive sectors. Nigeria is in need of a conducive environment to move out of the doldrums and there is an urgent need to get going. [ texte en entier ]
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Vincent Chukwuka Igbinedion, Apapa, Lagos. 23 Apr 2003
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It is very unfortunate that Nigerians don't learn in an easy way. Otherwise, Gen. Obasanjo and his PDP members should have been the first to make sure that democracy stays in Nigeria. Disenfranchising the masses is a crime and those who did it should not go unpunised, for this is the only way we can deter future criminals or riggers.
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From exprience, I can comfortably state that those who are managing the country are not capable of spelling democracy, not to mention defining it. I am calling on people of integrity, honesty to devise a workable system upon which we are going to run Nigeria with some degree of honesty.
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Until the interest of the masses become the interest of the public officials, Nigeria may not see peace. [ texte en entier ]
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Chief Okaa Chima Ajoku, Miami, FL 23 Apr 2003
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The election was free and fair because in this nation we are just starting a democracy.
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Shola, Kwara State of Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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African sitting presidents never lost elections. Same applies to Obasanjo. Dictatorship on the way.
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Mike, Vancouver, Canada 23 Apr 2003
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It is high time we stop bringing shame to our country Nigeria. Those of you in Nigeria have failed to realised what we are going through here. Yes Obasanjo has won the elections. What next? Nigerians are suffering daily in the midst of glorious oil wealth. Our country is bleeding profusely because of what the "old woods" used by Obasanjo did to our treasury.
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Obasanjo should use young bloods this time around to invigorate and boost crippling Nigeria. We are tired of looters who pretend to be assembly men. If Obsanjo wants to avoid later impeachment, he should drop everyone he used. Nigeria needs progress badly. The only good news we hear about Nigeria in the United States and Britain is Corruption. I hope Obasanjo should recall the Auditor General to help him put things right. [ texte en entier ]
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Chris E. Obinwa, Reading, UK 23 Apr 2003
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It will be foolish to think that elections in Nigeria at this stage of our political life can be devoid of rigging. I am not justifying political cheats but only calling all concerned to the reality of present day politicking in nigeria.
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I think most of the candidates that won, especially Obasanjo, were always going to win. Most of the candidates that won were seen to be better than their counterparts or not as hated as the ones that lost.
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In the south-west, for example, the voting was against the incumbent AD governorship candidates which turned out an advantage for the PDP at least because of the Obasanjo/tribal factor. In the presidential election the two frontline candidates were hated by most Nigerians but Obasanjo was less hated because of his seeming statesman posture. [ texte en entier ]
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Oguta Eniye, Lagos, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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I personally disagree with the results of the election because of its irregularities. The elections have been rigged in most local government areas of Imo states, just because Achike Udewan wants re-election through rigging; like Chief Gani Fawehinmi noted in his comment, how can anyone who has not been paid since six months to one year re-elect the governor of that state, Imo state?
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Governor Achike Udewan has not paid his people for four months, how then and with what eye will they go to the poll to re-elect him, not only that, his administration has not really done anything for the masses.
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Having visited home recently, it's hard to express the amount of sufferings the people are going through due to non-payment, yet they expect them to show up in the office everyday. When you see the city itself, it's a dumping ground, very dirty. I strongly believe that the results of all those states that were re-elected was rigged, and the truth of the matter now shows on the national level with Obasanjo's case. [ texte en entier ]
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Uzoma C. Onyekuru, Canada 23 Apr 2003
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Uncle Sege has won. Let Buhari give way to the lasting peace that he could not give birth to, at his time.
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Personally, I expected he would make his usual noise. God will make Nigeria great again ! Amen.
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Rev Lani Stephens, Jos City, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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Am so thank to God for the election was going on peaceful.
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Taiwo, Ilorin, Kwara, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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Some Nigerians are still stuck with the mindset of civilians under a military regime. The foreign press wanted the Nigerian president to "ORDER" a stop to the implemenation of Sharia court directives, some Nigerians want him to "order" a trial of corrupt persons, "order" lecturers back to the universities, "order" electricity supply and so on.
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We operate a democracy in a civilian dispensation. The Nigerian president can no more stop the stoning of a convicted adulterer in Zamfara state any more than the president of the USA can stop an court ordered execution in Texas.
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To fight corruption you need a legal process. Things take time. The two-man sniper team that harrassed the USA last year are STILL in court. [ texte en entier ]
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Paul Quassim, Mississauga, Canada 23 Apr 2003
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I am not Nigerian, but have visited the country on several business trips for my company. It is clear that its recent gubernatorial, parliamentary, and presidential election were far from fair and free. While Nigerians came out in droves to participate - itself a blessing - their true choices may never be known.
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In any case, I would suggest that those suggesting fraud was at play should use the courts to press their case. If fraud has been found, then new elections should be called. Finally, the election process my continue to be strengthened in Nigeria.
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Christopher, Manassas, VA 23 Apr 2003
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Elections in Nigeria can never be free and fair until we have a stable political class. So far we are still riddled with emergency politicians like Obasanjo and Buhari who come out to achieve the selfish motives of themselves and their sponsors.
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A man [Obasanjo] with no political ambition came out of the prison to win the presidential primaries and subsequently the election over the likes of Ekwueme, Rimi and co. who had been warming up for the polls after fighting for democracy. The party machinery was hijacked and Obasanjo was given the ticket to appease the Yorubas. Even the Yorubas rejected him but he still won.
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The north has now seen that the Yorubas have accepted him (like a father would to a rejected son turned successful) and are defending him with all they have. So they do again what they did in 1999, that is, hijack the party machinery and give Buhari the ticket but Ooops, he (sorry they) lost this time. Can’t they see what happened to Afenifere? When will these our so-called elders learn that though they have almost wrecked the educational system, they have not wrecked the brains of their subjects? [ texte en entier ]
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Femi Obiomah, Lagos, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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We must agree that there is no a perfect country on earth, Nigeria is no exception. All we need is individuals to try and change to good. Buhari should come back for Nigerian president when he is 90 years old. We want Obasanjo as our president in nigeria.
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Ride on, Uncle Sege.
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John Olagbemi, Houston, Texas USA 23 Apr 2003
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It will be unfortunate if we allow sentiment to becloud our sense of reasoning as per this elections and hold ourselves down. Historically, all democracies passed thruogh this kind of teething stage. we should simply accept this result, even though it is full of "imperfection", and plan properly for next dispensation. Nigeria and Nigerians will eventually outlive the election riggers and this set of politrickians. We can only be getting better with future elections.
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Lastly, we should remember the popular saying that the election of a master by slaves does not change the status of slaves. And elections and electioneering are not an end but a means to democracy, which simply means bread and freedom.
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Olumide Olaniyan, Satellitte Town, Lagos, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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Anyone living in Nigeria, who is not connected to Abuja or other official channels of fraudulent access to sustenance must be thinking of how to survive in this country for another four years. It is sad, bizarre and puzzling that Nigerians have to live with the same frauds who have consistently told us that what we think, what we say, what we feel do not matter.
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What is democracy if it refuses to place food on the table, provides darkness for electricity, dry boreholes (where they are available) for water? All this hard work has removed billions of dollars from the national treasury and the perpetrators of these evils gloat over their sterling leadership qualities.
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Why are the people who voted massively for the ruling party not out on the streets celebrating? I shudder to think of how our country would survive in the coming years (months) with people who delight in attributing their actions, including the improbable election results, to God. They would think that they know God better than the rest of us. When God finally speaks, Nigerans would see the result. [ texte en entier ]
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Ikeddy ISIGUZO, Lagos, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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I think the only way forward is for people to accept defeat and move on. PDP did their ground work and they worked really hard for the election and it paid off; it is only hard working people that can get the best out of life. AD, for example, are still using the old idea of politics to tell people what to do; people are grown-ups in Nigeria and they've voted for the party of their choice and I think the wish of all Nigerians should be allowed to stand.
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WELL DONE PDP. KEEP THE FLAG FLYING. GOD BLESS NIGERIA.
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Agbolade Okenla Esq, london United Kingdom 23 Apr 2003
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Nigeria will hardly conduct a free and fair election as things stand today because the politics is controlled by thugs at the grass root level. These thugs never believed in free and fair play, all they know is who pays more and he/she gets all the votes (or the higest figure).
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They cut across all the political parties. Until responsible people are participating in managing politics at wards and local government levels in Nigeria, free and fair election will continue to be a mirage. My advice is that whoever rigs more and wins should please do at least the minimum to improve the lives of poor Nigerians.
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Salihu Jamari, London, UK. 23 Apr 2003
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I see no reason why we shouldn't move forward; we do not want to allow the military, who are meant to see to the nation's security, to take over the government because of a reccuring factor that has decided to be part and parcel of our life in the country (corruption).
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Without mincing words, I make bold to say that the last election is not fair, though it is 'free'. The electorate has taken their time to study the candidates well enough to know who they really want to vote for.
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This happened in areas where opposition parties had their way. You will wonder also that some hardworking incumbents were shown their way out of office and you won't understand the reason for such. These are what I summed up to be a free but 'fairly fair' election. [ texte en entier ]
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Gbenga Da Sylva, Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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The foreign observers cried 'foul', the local observers cried 'chicken' some politicians cried 'we no go gree'.I say let's give peace a chance and see what we make of this current setting.
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If we start all over again to organise fresh election, INEC would ask for fresh funds - from where or from whom?. Parties would campaign for how long?
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If the funds do not come, what next? What time frame are we looking at for another election? It's all questions and questions .
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Let's accept what we have for now. Four years is a very short time. I pray Almighty Allah grant us all good health and at the expiration of this period , may He grant us the Nigeria we all desire [ texte en entier ]
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Halidu Musaliyu, Sango-Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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I think every politician should accept defeat because all of them were involved in the rigging of the election. So the party that did his homework well wins the election.
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Aloko Remusadert, Dublin Ireland 23 Apr 2003
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I believe that those who had rejected the result are not very fair with themselves .These elections might not be free from rigging but how do we expect to get perfect elections in a new democracy .How many of those parties where on ground. How many went to different places around the country to campaign for votes? How many advertised to the public.Lets keep quiet and see how they play the game.
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Taiwo Adeolu,Abuja,Lagos, ,Abuja,Lagos 23 Apr 2003
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I do not subscribe to the opinion that the elections were completely free and fair. Given this, one would expect me to go further by suggesting an outright cancellation of the results. This is not my argument!!! What I would like to see at this stage is for the judiciary to play the impartial role of an arbiter in resolving all established cases of electoral fraud.
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Particularly in states like Enugu, Katsina, Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross-River and Imo. This would go a long way in entrenching our nascent democracy and ensuring transparency in coming elections. Otherwise, this massive rigging campaign would continue endlessly!!!!!
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Tersoo Bossua, Lagos, Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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The election may not be free and fair, but can Buhari defeat Obasanjo in an election? NO
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Obasanjo has ruled Nigeria for four years in a democratic era and many people are saying he did nothing. A nation that has been spoiled for many years by senseless military men. How could people expect him(Obasanjo)to refurbish such a nation in just four years? and the man really tried, because during the military era someone cannot call Nigeria from abroad and get through but now the communication system is okay. So he deserves the second term and let us wait and see what the next four years will look like. About the election, Buhari should accept his defeat; he can go and wait till 2007. It may be his turn then. [ texte en entier ]
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Waheed Olayinka Sowunmi, Amsterdam,Netherlands 23 Apr 2003
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Nigerians have a common disease which is greed and that is simply the reason for their failures.
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amaka, Enugu,Nigeria 23 Apr 2003
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Nigeria is a big disgrace to humanity and the cause is that they are all greedy.Nobody wants to be left out.
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anuli, Enugu 23 Apr 2003
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The elections have gone and the results heard but the question remains whether that what the country calls democracy should not be renamed democrazy? It´s quite unfortunate that a great country like this after 40 years of independent practices do or die election under the name of democracy. Who won the election may not be of great important but how to move the country ahead is. Providing the things that enhance economic growth, life security etc.
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Nzekwe Chukwudi, Vienna, Austria. 23 Apr 2003
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One does not claim to have expertise on the history of Nigeria, nor the recent performance of the Nigerian President and his administration. Nonetheless, one agrees with the spirit and intentions of Taofik Onasanya from Canada, with his comments on 22nd April 2003. For all intents and purposes, the progress on Nigeria ensuring a democratic election far outweigh the need to declare the election a farce and a sham.
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This progress shall be a great assistance in entrenching democracy in Africa's most populous country. It is important that Nigeria and Nigerian's recognise that they are a country in transition to entrenched and unimpeachable democracy. Therefore all their efforts is to ensure political stability so as to make certain that the socio-economic challenges placed before them are overcome. It is of vital importance that the other institutions that form part of the democratic architecture, are strengthened so that no real precedence can be instilled, such as the courts and the police. [ texte en entier ]
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Donovan E Williams, Johannesburg, South Africa 23 Apr 2003
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Fellow Nigerians, let us be reasonable in our judgements. Don't let us be fooled by those crying wolf because things did not go the way they would have wanted it to.
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Put it this way,-If Obasanjo did no win, who should have won? ,is it Buhari,Ojukwu,Yussuf, Nwachukwu, Nwobodo,with their appalling track records? Gani Fawenhinmi who had a chance but no strong base or many other contestants we had never heard about before?
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I know, Obasanjo is not the best for Nigeria, but there is no credible alternative.
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The same applies to many states where there was a change of power. People voted on party lines because they want change.
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And what we have to understand is that in any election there must be a winner and a loser regardless of how we come to this conclusion. [ texte en entier ]
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Bola Salam, London U.K 23 Apr 2003
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Nobody is contesting who should be the Democratic President of Nigeria. The most important thing to All reasonable Nigerians is to be governed by someone who is really God-fearing, someone ready to serve the people of the Land by improving the standard of living and bringing out the glory that God has endowed in that Country.
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It is very sad to find the same people who have been in authority since we had our Independence, still ruling till now and with no progress.These people get to authority to enrich their private pockets and accounts. They are still the ones that are interested in ruling the Country,WHY.....
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They all should go and sit down and never be allowed to take part in the political affairs of Nigeria. They have been given their chances since 1960 and they ALL have really messed-up. [ texte en entier ]
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Funmi, London 23 Apr 2003
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Buhari should not make noise about rigged elections. If he is wise he should be able to know that Obasanjo is a better choice than him. Obasanjo could be bad but Buhari is not a match for him. It is high time these noise makers know where they belong ,and not try to bite off more than they can chew. Things could be moving very slowly now. But it is better than taking it into the hands of people who will make it move backwards.
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Larry Naija, Tokyo 23 Apr 2003
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AS FAR AS I AM CONCERNED, THE ELECTIONS WERE VERY GOOD. THE COMMENTS FROM THE OPPOSITION IS A NORMAL PHENOMENON WITH ELECTIONS ALL OVER THE WORLD.MY WORDS TO THOSE WHO LOST IN THE ELECTIONS IS THAT THEY SHOULD ADOPT SPORTMANSHIP ATTITUDE AND SETTLE DOWN TO WORK WITH THE WINNING TEAM.
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THANKS.
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PETER ADELEKE, LONDON ENGLAND 23 Apr 2003
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Obasanjo knows he rigged, Buhari knows he rigged massively, Ojukwu knows he rigged. All other candidates rigged as well. If this election is nullified and repeated ten times it will be rigged and a minimum of 500 lives would be lost and many tugs will satisfy their earns meat.
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But for the preservation of our unity and the nascent democracy let the aggrieved parties rest their case in God's hand and forgive.
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In the sane and natural world, virtually all the contestants should be behind bars .They have no moral standing and justification to contest any election in Nigeria. It is only in my noble country an accused murderer wins a senatorial election from jail.
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The election in Edo State was a true reflection of the electoral mockery. Despite the catastrophic performance of the incumbent governor he got re-elected because there was no credible opposition as they were schemed and rigged out of the system in the primary phase. [ texte en entier ]
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Jerry Igbinoba, London 23 Apr 2003
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As far back as I can recall, I am above 40yrs. old, no election has gone without fraud, misconduct or irregularities. From countries with the most sophisticated technology like the United States of America or Britain to Nations that count the ballots with their fingers like Liberia or Nigeria, there has always been accusations of election rigging when the result does not favour the opposition party. Nigeria lives by the doctrine of survival of the fittest. Regardless of how you supervise the election, those who want to win at all cost will pay to rig it.
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Please stop the killing of people and move on. Move on to finding a better way of electing public officials. Teach our young people in schools that there is another way of surviving than the above mentioned way. And that by refusing to take or to give bribe, we will begin to see better and fare elections. Teach the school kids their rights and they will grow to defend them. That will make the future generations law-abiding citizens. [ texte en entier ]
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Agbara, Theodore, Washington D.C., U.S.A. 23 Apr 2003
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What has taken place in Nigeria, is a selection of leaders not elections. I wonder how long it will take Nigeria to get real democracy. thank you
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Okenwa Augustine, Luedenscheid ,Germany 23 Apr 2003
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Although our electoral process may not be up to par with others, we must nevertheless be proud of the fact that we survived our first real test as a democracy. We must work together to make our democracy stronger and more grassroots. Complaining will not get us anywhere. This is much better than the military being in power. Enough. We must move forward.
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God bless Nigeria and Democracy!!!
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Nate, California 23 Apr 2003
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Shame; Shame; Shame; Shame;
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This is another sad day for Mother Africa. I am not a Nigerian but I feel the pain. Shame on those who suggest that the fraudulent elections results should stand. Nigeria has played the role of a policeman in some parts of Africa. How will Nigeria play this leadership role when Mr. Obasanjo and his groups are elected based on frauds? The results of any fraudulent elections should not be supported.
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Alfred Droe Peters, Minneapolis, Minnesota 23 Apr 2003
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Buhari
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(For ANPP)
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"Mamma, mamma Obasanjo rig this election pass me"
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Obasanjo
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(For PDP)
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"Na lie, you rig pass me but I come manage win you"
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Mother Africa
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(For the masses)
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"Shut up Buhari, for age OBJ na your senior. Remember when you dey Army, he thief power before you ba? For this election he come teach you sense. Make you dey learn. Next time you fit rig better"
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VERDICT
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All Nigeria's elections to date have been rigged. The masses know no better.Rigging was the excuse of the military to take power.
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Now we are making progress gradually. Some day soon the masses shall demand a rig-free election.Meanwhile let's move on.
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The masses demand from OBJ and his PDP to fulfil election promises! [ texte en entier ]
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Mother Africa, London 22 Apr 2003
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Every time there is an election the hopes of the people are raised and dashed at the same time. These politicians have no intention of carrying out progressive programs for the people. All they want is the opportunities to loot and abuse their power for their own selfish and greedy reasons.
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The political system and structure in Nigeria is designed to bankrupt the resources of the land, create divisive techniques among the people in order to stay in power and continue to maintain their stronghold on the nation. Nigerians will never enjoy the true meaning of democracy as long as there is no system of accountability for these thieves who are parading themselves as politicians.
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Another four years of looting is about to begin so stand by and watch the drama unfold over and over again. [ texte en entier ]
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Gerald Ajayi, NYC, USA 22 Apr 2003
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From all indications, the elections were free, but fraudulent. Obasanjo and his cohorts would have won anyway without the fraud. In speaking to people at home, some people witnessed how the electoral officers stuffed the ballot boxes and in some cases police was paid as little as six hundred naira to look the other way.
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Having said that, I believe Nigeria must move on. We need to recognize that mistakes were made, admit them, and learn from them to make the next elections better. I do not believe that the chairman of the electoral commission is the right man for the job. His integrity has been highly compromised especially with him blaming the independent observers. They must find the right person for the job if they do not want to repeat the same mistakes in 2007. [ texte en entier ]
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Okoli Nwamalubia, Texas, USA 22 Apr 2003
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The elections in Nigeria have come and gone. Yes there were irregularities in some of the canters, but the trend started during the party primaries. The main opposition ANPP, had a sham of a convention in Abuja where Buhari was SELECTED and IMPOSED on the party. He should be a good loser and accept the results. Obasanjo has not performed well in the last 4yrs,but let us see what he has to offer in the next 4yrs.
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Osa Guobadia, New York City,U.S.A 22 Apr 2003
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In this era of globalisation, no nation or village, including the underground tokombo ideas and houses could be hiding secrets from the rest of the world. As such, national elections reveal the culture and character of a country, and the habits of its peoples too.
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That Nigeria is a monumental factor of electoral malpractices is not short of the pre-electoral analysis and warnings. Research showed it had been happening and that it might happen again. As predicted, reported and alarmed by participants, it turned out just that way. Beginning from the rigging of the party selection of Obasanjo, no Nigerian is surprised that he is still there for the next four years. This election is not something for jubilation. Rather it is something for constant prayers to change the military hearts of these leaders into civility. [ texte en entier ]
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Patrick Iroegbu (Ph.D), Alberta, Canada 22 Apr 2003
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From all indications, the election was free, but fraudulent. Obasanjo and his cohorts would have won anyway without the fraud. In speaking to people at home, some people witnessed how the electoral officers stuffed the ballot boxes and in some cases police was paid as little as six hundred naira to look the other way. Having said that, I believe Nigeria must move on. We need to recognize that mistakes were made, admit them, and learn form them to make the next election better. I do not believe that the chairman of the electoral commission is the right man for the job. His integrity has been highly compromised especially with him blaming the independent observers. They must find the right person for the job if they do not want to repeat this same mistakes in 2007. [ texte en entier ]
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Okoli Nwamalubia, Dallas, Texas 22 Apr 2003
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Thank God that our country is at least being managed by Obasanjo. Elections should be fair and peaceful, but we have a long way to go in Nigeria before having a fair election. Those of us who are "self imposed refugees" in the United State will like to come home to a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria!! Long life Obasanjo. God bless Nigeria.
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Toni Dru, United States 22 Apr 2003
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Nigeria is internationally noted for its fraud, or 419. That has brought untold hardships to honest Nigerians. Now we have a 419 government emerging from a 419 election in the country.
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The central government knows that it has performed below expectation, that was why it did what it is very good at - fraud. At the onset of the incumbent government, we were promised steady power supply, that was a 419 promise; we were promised improvement in education and healthcare, that too was a 419 promise; The list goes on... We were finally promised a free and fair election, that too as we have seen, was a 419 promise.
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If we want Nigeria to move forward in this 419 robe, then we must be moving to our doom. Excuse me for sounding pessimistic, I am only being realistic! [ texte en entier ]
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Ifedi Obioma, Saskatoon, Canada 22 Apr 2003
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It is a sad day in the history of Nigeria - for our leader Obasanjo to commit fraud to win an election is very sad. The people's rights have been taken away, mostly in Edo state where people came out to find freedom. We should not allow the result to stand but fight and cry for freedom. If this result is allowed to stand, then this will continue year after year. This is the time to tell those involved it is wrong and they can not take people's right to chose their leader. The people of Nigeria should stand out for their rights and the rest of the world will join them in their fight for freedom. Mr Obasanjo has just lost his respect from thousands of Nigerians overseas who used to look up to him. Nigerians should stand up for their right. [ texte en entier ]
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Benson, Sac 22 Apr 2003
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You cannot achieve anything by contesting the election; instead you will be wasting time and money that are needed for viable projects. Give power to the people by creating an independent judiciary and a respectable police force and it will not matter who won or rigged the election at any time because the criminals will always be found out and disgraced. The court system at the moment is the same as the incumbent leadership. Do you really have a choice?
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Victor Okeke, London 22 Apr 2003
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When I hear people complain about irregularities, I am reminded of the 1983 elections, the complaints and the eventual descent into the hell of military rule.
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The election was not free and fair, so what? The last time we had a free and fair election in Nigeria, it was annulled for very flimsy reasons. Personally, I think a loaf in hand, is worth two come May 2007.
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Nigerians everywhere, I beseech you to be patient with the stumbling, but real progress we're making towards democracy. It is my hope that the fire of democracy will burn brightly in our country so that those of our generation (Gen X) can participate in the nearest future and put things right.
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When that time comes, we all can return home and contribute our two cents worth and in case you have forgotten why we are abroad, it is because we had no opportunities then to achieve our potential, what with all the cronyism, nepotism, corruptionism, tribalism and political fraud of the current generation of politicians. [ texte en entier ]
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Taofik Onasanya, Canada 22 Apr 2003
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I am very sorry for Obasanjo and his stupid caucus that believes that power sholud not move around. I wonder why Nigerians should sit down and allow someone like Obasanjo to rule all of us, the same man that preaches about corruption is the same old idiot that is corrupting the democracy system in Nigeria.
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I as a person that live and was born here will not make Obasanjo and his associates be happy or have rest until they are forced out of Government; let all Nigeria youth wake and take the challenge and let's fight a battle of change instead of sitting down thinking all is well. All is not well at all so wake up and let's make moves. [ texte en entier ]
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Uwubare Ariakpore, Lagos,Nigeria 22 Apr 2003
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Well, I congratulate Mr President (Obasanjo)for his victory but I am not really confortable with the way things go in Nigeria as a nation up till this present time. A lot of things are in a mess in our country. Personally, I am not for or against Obasanjo, or anybody, but I think we are still very far from democracy. We as Nigerians have not yet started to choose our president or people in government by ourselves. First of all, this Obasanjo administration was not instituted by the people of Nigeria. Anybody that follows events in our country, most especially the Oputa panel will agree with my reasoning.
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Nigeria as a country or nation is in error. You see, doing the right things in the wrong way is wrong and doing the wrong things in the right way is equally wrong as well. This is just what's going on with us as a nation. I think it is time for us as a nation to reason together, let us stop deceiving ourselves. It is time for us to begin addressing issues rather than all this mess. [ texte en entier ]
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Hyacinth Chidiebere Okwuowulu, Southfield Michigan USA. 22 Apr 2003
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Fellow Nigerians, l am amazed at the recent happenings in our political forum. Do you know that we as a nation have arrived?
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I am very much happy that in my lifetime we are discussing elections as a democratic nation rather than witnessing coups. So why worry about riggings? l have adopted the position of letting things mature before you pluck them. By this l mean rigging is okay because the ordinary person can participate, either by being the rigger or the rigged. No more shall I not have my say because it's Abacha or Buhari, the gun slingers. Rather, we can do it somehow the civilian way.
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Finally let's all support the incoming government and implore all these ex-military juntas to at least start learning all about a civil society before they start crying rigging. There are words in the English language that clearly explain the meaning of all this hullaballoo. These words are nothing but WINNERS AND LOSERS. All is well, folks. I like what I am seeing. Long live Nigeria and congratulations to Uncle Sege! [ texte en entier ]
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PAP SOLO MANKIND, HOUSTON TEXAS. USA 22 Apr 2003
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Buhari (For ANPP) "Mamma, mamma Obasanjo rig this election pass me"
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Obasanjo (For PDP) "Na lie, you rig pass me but I come manage win you"
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Mother Africa (For the masses) "Shut up Buhari, for age OBJ na your senior. Remember when you dey Army, he thief power before you ba? For this election he come teach you sense. Make you dey learn. Next time you fit rig better"
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VERDICT
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All Nigeria's elections to date have been rigged. The masses know no better. Rigging was the excuse of the military to take power. Now we are making progress gradually. Some day soon the masses shall demand a rig-free election.Meanwhile let's move on. The masses demand from OBJ and his PDP to fulfil election promises! [ texte en entier ]
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Mother Africa, London 22 Apr 2003
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Every time there is an election the hopes of the people are raised and dashed at the same time. These politicians (thieves) have no intention of carrying out progressive programs for the people. All they want is the opportunities to loot and abuse their power for their own selfish and greedy reasons.
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The political system and structure in nigeria is designed to bankrupt the resources of the land, create divisive techniques among the people in order to stay in power and continue to maintain their stronghold on the nation. Nigerians will never enjoy the true meaning of democracy as long as there is no system of accountability for these thieves who are parading themselves as politicians. Another four years of looting is about to begin so stand by and watch the drama unfold over and over again. [ texte en entier ]
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Gerald Ajayi, NYC, USA 22 Apr 2003
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The elections in Nigeria have come and gone. Yes, there were irregularities in some of the centers but the trend started during the party primaries. The main opposition ANPP,had a sham of a convention in Abuja where Buhari was SELECTED and IMPOSED on the party. He should be a good loser and accept the results. Obasanjo has not performed well in the last 4 yrs,but let us see what he has to offer in the next 4 yrs.
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Osa Guobadia, New York City, U.S.A 22 Apr 2003
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In this era of globalization, no nation or village, including the underground "tokunbo" ideas and houses could be hiding secrets from the rest of the world. National elections reveal the culture and character of a country, and the habits of its peoples too.
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That Nigeria is a site of electoral malpractices is not short of the pre-electoral analysis and warnings. Research showed it had been happening and that it might happen again. As predicted, reported and alarmed by participants, it turned out just that way.
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Beginning from the rigging of the party selection of Obasanjo, no Nigerian is surprised that he is still there for the next four years. This election is not something for jubilation. Rather it is something for constant prayers to change the military hearts of these leaders into civility. [ texte en entier ]
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Patrick Iroegbu (Ph.D), Alberta, Canada 22 Apr 2003
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Long live Nigeria. I love my country I no go lie. Na inside am I go live and die. If it push me so I go push am back. Buhari, take defeat like a man and stop crying like a baby. Even Shagari accepted the result. Listen to him.
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Dr Ola Ayo , USA 22 Apr 2003
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There is no doubt that Obasanjo won the election, we should move ahead. It is high time we embrace the transparency in our democratic dispensation; let the loser accept his fate and try again another time.
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I am happy that the Yorubas now know it is time to be at the mainstream of Nigerian politics. No more politics of and by bitterness.
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God Bless Nigeria
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Akinbobuyi Franklin Django, Merrillville, IN, USA. 22 Apr 2003
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This Election must be a Joke.
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I didn't believe that Obasanjo could be having more than 62% of the result when he contested with about 29 parties, come on, it is a child's play.
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I didn't also support Buhari but it is high time Nigeria should be pratising democracy instead of what they are doing.
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Prince Eze, London 22 Apr 2003
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Making the probable election malpratices a focus could pose a threat to our nascent democracy, time stands between the culprits and the honest compatriots if really the winning party swindled. It is time to forge ahead to seek socio-economic and political stability. Chaos and anarchy in the Nigeria of these days remain a luxury we cannot afford. Thanks for your commitment.
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Edwin Fidelis Okeh, Forli, Italy 22 Apr 2003
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It is unfortunate that after four decade of freedom we still cannot be able to have a credible leadership in Nigeria. It is always the same crooks that continue circle around. As a Nigerian I am ashamed that we never grow up at all. All that are so elected or re-elected are corrupt and have no focus but to continue to amass wealth and think they may go free without paying for it. Rest assured, the day of reckoning is at the corner. Let it be for now as we need peace, for it is the masses that continue to suffer even if there is a continuous reappeal. May the Almighty deliver us, Amin.
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Ahmed Usman Belel , London,United Kingdom. 22 Apr 2003
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Since I'm just 15, I'm not supposed to have any political experience, nor can I imagine the way the people ordinarily live in Nigeria or any other country in Africa - I'm too spoiled. But from several observations as seen on TV about the Nigerian elections, I honestly doubt the "overwhelming" success, as it is presented, the Nigerian government claims to have. Though I take Nigeria as one of furthest developed countries among the African Union, I also credit them to distort election results, simply because of the greed to preserve power.
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Andrew, Lübeck, Germany 22 Apr 2003
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Hi fellow Nigerians, right from the first day that Obasanjo was elected I knew he was a bad luck; imagine a common man can't afford to buy gari which is supposed to be the cheapest food in Nigeria. Even now in Nigeria parents ask their children if they have eaten, they never bother to ask whether the food was enough. Please brothers and sisters we have to reject or fight this because i believe the election was rigged. God punish all bad leaders.
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Tope Oluwakosebi 22 Apr 2003
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A REALISTIC TIME TABLE- 1999-2011.
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29th May 1999- Military disengaged from power politics.
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29th May 2003- Retired Military Civilians politicians commence disengagement.
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29th May 2007 a new breed of politicians trained in the Human Science of management begins to emerge.
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29th May 2011 the Nation of Nigeria emerges with the electorate's supremacy deciding the future of who should govern Nigeria. This is our timetable. I belong to the May 2007 timing.
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Bisong Takim-Tiku., Port Harcourt-Nigeria. 22 Apr 2003
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Thank God almighty, that an average Nigerian can now take part in electoral process (the second one for that matter). Of course there were irregularities, but we must not forget that this is part of the great recovery process 'Nigeria as a people' must undergo.
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Those opposed to the declared result should ask themselves, what they genuinely think they have to offer the Nation. I personally think that they are disappointed because of a lost opportunity to rob the country. We have all seen Al Gore of the US after he lost the presidential election to George W Bush. Today, he is a great US Ambassador all over the World. You do not have to be elected to help your Country. [ texte en entier ]
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Michael Odiamehi, Glasgow, Scotland .UK 22 Apr 2003
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I think the best way to settle this political dispute that has arisen, or is going to arise, is for the INEC to cancel election in the states viewed as fraudulent and consult a new a election, in order to avoid violence. Because Nigeria is a turbulent state. I also call upon all Nigerians to eschew political instability because it does not lead us to anywhere, as we have witnessed over the years.
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Patrick Achibiri, Boston MA U.S.A 22 Apr 2003
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We are in a learning process. Mistakes are bound to occur. Even in the United States with all the technology they have, they could not conduct a free and fair election. Let's give ourselves some time to develop and correct our mistakes. Let's have a country where we can live to contest another day.
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Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
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Daniel Kwakpovwe, Oxford, United Kingdom 22 Apr 2003
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Politics is a corrupt business everywhere in the world, Africa and the West included. I'm sure this election process has been tainted, but let us not forget that some of our people somewhere have been honest and law abiding. Surely, it is not in every state and in every voting booth that fraud has prevailed? The places where the voting has gone well present us with hope for our nation.
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My opinion is that what feeds corruption in Nigeria is not just the politicians but the outlook and mentality of the everyday people themselves. How many have not gotten by or away with something? The question is, are we a reflection of our politicians or are they a reflection of us? Let us think about that. [ texte en entier ]
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Teju Omolodun, Indiana, USA 22 Apr 2003
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My patriotic spirit is uplifted to read through the responses to the current returns of the National Election; consensus - let's move on as Nigerians, winners or losers.
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My challenge to you, brothers and sisters as an individual: do something, wherever you find yourself in this globe, to bring our beloved country out of third world categorization. There is need for jobs, needs for basic amenities, learning from global events. Education should be a primary priority to the masses. Unity, irrespective of our birth tongue and geographical affliation, is needed to modernized our environment for security and advancement. Let us start doing something for the next generation, NOW!
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We need to be accountable, productive and devoted to transforming our people and the country to modern industrialized nation with our individual efforts. [ texte en entier ]
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Biodun Afuwape. Ph.D., Perris, CA USA 22 Apr 2003
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Why is it that when there is change in something, we Nigerians always find a fault to discredit it? Can't we just mature into a good sportman who would take defeat graciously? We should all thank God that Nigeria is getting politically matured in chosing their leaders without any fear, bias or sentiments, but on the bases of the leaders' ability and track records.
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PDP won in many states because of President Obasanjo performances at the top. I was in Nigeria during the time of Parliamentry election and I spoke to some people in Lagos, Abeokuta and Ibadan and from what I heard I knew that PDP will win in Ogun and Oyo state and Tinubu will survived by a margin in Lagos state. [ texte en entier ]
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Tunde Toyin Salam, London U.K 22 Apr 2003
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It is unfortunate for the opposition to say the election is rigged or is not fair. If they were to win, would it still be not free and fair? Whoever loses the elections in Nigeria is still a Nigerian. They should perfect their tricks so that they too will be able to rig in the future.
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Ekpojen, Kigali, Rwanda 22 Apr 2003
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May I ask whether party reprensentatives were at the various collation centres? If they were allowed to do their jobs at the collation centres there should not be any reason to complain.
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Ogie Omoruyi John, Belgium 22 Apr 2003
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The election should be verified by another independent body to give Obasanjo reasons to be the President of Nigeria. We need a statistical sample of some of these states to verify the amount of fraud that has happened. Here is a born again christian presiding over a large fraud in the country. The universities have been closed for months, no gas in the country. Vote for Baba he got 80% of the vote. Yes, right. So you want to tell me that the common man wants to live like this all the time?
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This "business as usual" is what has kept the country bad the way it is. If Ambassador (now senator) Jibril Aminu now says that the 'man on the street'... does not matter who does? You mean that common man on the street that constitutes 95% of the country does not matter? [ texte en entier ]
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Andy Brown, USA 22 Apr 2003
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The election in Nigeria is something to be applauded, no matter the outcome. Those of us who live in the Western world know how long it took them to get to where they are. Nigeria is making progress and President Obasanjo is trying, notwithstanding all opposition from different quarters. President Obasanjo has only been given the mandate to govern by the Nigerian electorate for 4 years and there is much one can do in 4 years knowing how Nigeria was messed up by the so-called former rulers. So give another 4 years and things may turn around. Do you know how many years it took the good old USA to get to where they are today?
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Ogom Iwugo, New Carrollton, MD U S A 22 Apr 2003
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So sad: among all the people who gave their comments, only two (just two!)[now 7 out of 32 - moderator] are from Nigeria. That is, maybe, what Nigerian democracy lacks: transparency and participation.
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Federico de Girolamo, Brussels, Belgium 22 Apr 2003
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As regards the 2003 election, it was OK - just that many people are struggling to be there so they can have their cake, as we all know.
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PDP, AD etc. they are all bastards and good-for-nothings; if I had my way I would eliminate all of them. We just sit and hope for better days to come.
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I did not cast any vote; if you want to know why, I hate them with passion.
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Is all good. Cheers
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Afam Pusu, Lagos, Nigeria 22 Apr 2003
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We're still a baby in politics, either good or bad. We can stiil make it up to a good democracy therefore we should be given a better chance by our unshakeable faith and prayers.
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AJIBOLA GBENGA, SOUTH KOREA 22 Apr 2003
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From all indications this election is not free and fair. But from two evils, one has to choose a lesser one. Instead of putting our young democracy into a state of imbroglio just because of Buhari, we better settle for Obasanjo. The worst thing that can now happen to Nigeria is for Buhari to be the president of this country. Can Obasanjo deliver this time? This is a hundred million dollar question.
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Ezekwonna ferdinand, Fribourg, Switzerland. 22 Apr 2003
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Ex-Olusegun Osoba (Ogun State)- I'm glad you are gone; can you imagine I saw that governor frolicking at the Notting Hill Carnival in London's last year? He should have worried more about the hungry constituents who put him in power...
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As a Deltalite and a Nigerian I am unhappy about the irregularities that took place during this election, especially in my state. However I am willing to accept these results and move on - especially as I see Buhari as the worse of the two candidates.
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Interested Party, London, UK 22 Apr 2003
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Election 2003 has come and gone, the lessons of the whole process are numerous; our politicians should desist from manipulating the electorates the way this election was conducted. They should not forget that the ultimate power belongs to God almighty. Anyone who forces him or herself on the people, cannot do the same on God.
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Ekih Mack A, Agbor Delta state, Nigeria 22 Apr 2003
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I personally don't want Obasanjo to be president of Nigeria again or war, war, war in the country. Obasanjo is a 419 somebody and a thief also.
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Mohamed Musa, Nigerian 22 Apr 2003
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There is no doubt that there is tension. Tempers are high, nerves have been thoroughly overstretched and some people are ready to explode. But hold it.
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The honest truth is that any valid claim of love for our nation must be validated by the willingness to sacrifice, even when you have been wronged. The success or failure of this election will be debated for a long time to come. Once again, I make bold to say that we have fared well.
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Not because there was absolute fairness, not because there was no violence, not because the right candidates all won. For the love of our dear nation, let us move on.
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A time shall come in our nation, Nigeria, when all the evils that have been committed shall be righted. That time may tarry, but it shall come. What we have seen and shall yet see, are all preparations for that day. [ texte en entier ]
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Augustine Nwankwo Ifedi Lecturer, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka currently in London, U.K. 22 Apr 2003
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It is better to 'let sleeping dogs lie.' From past experience we have never gained anythign from the litigations. After all, are there many differences between the old politicians and the incoming ones? If any of them (especially those of the south-west) had done well [in their posts], they would not have been defeated.
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Perry 'Buchi Ogbonnah, Sevilla, Spain 22 Apr 2003
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I think as a Nigerian we should accept what ever the result of the elction comes out to be. Remember many countries never thought we could ever conduct an election of this Standard.
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Whoever loses, for the sake of unity should accept defeat and show support for the greater Nigeria.
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Ambali, Minneapolis USA 22 Apr 2003
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The elections were far from being free and fair but don't forget, this is Nigeria we are talking about. Nothing ever goes the way it should, especially as we have the same set of political thugs trying to outdo one another all the time. They only get better at their tactics and it becomes a case of the more you look, the less you see.
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But we have to thank God that we did not witness any violence in any part of the country. This in itself is progress. I will rate Obasanjo very poorly in terms of economic reforms and provision of social infrastructures. Our health and school systems have all run down, roads are in deplorable state all across the nation etc. [ texte en entier ]
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Idara Archibong, Lagos, Nigeria 22 Apr 2003
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As a Nigerian I am proud of the undeniable fact that we are taking steps towards a mature culture of democracy. The chairman of the Alliance for Democracy made my day by his classic speech while conceeding defeat.
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In spite of reported cases of irregularities I would call on losers to place Nigeria above themselves like Al Gore did for the love of America. Buhari, in particular will surely give Nigerians the opportunity to decide whether he will lead them in 2007 or never again - Himself or Nigeria?
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Leonard Shilgba, Yokohama. Japan 22 Apr 2003
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We may be building a fragile democracy, if we allow the monumental electoral fraud perpetrated in these so-called elections to stand. In my opinion, we are about to enthrone governments in all levels that will not be accountable to the people - they were rejected at the polls and were imposed on the people by one or two "lovers of democracy". Big shame.
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Emma Ofielu, Nnewi, Nigeria 22 Apr 2003
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There is no doubt that this electoral process was greatly influenced by unholy forces. I do not need an international Monitoring group in Nigeria to say the obvious.
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It is rather shameful that Nigerians still considered what we had with Obasanjo a democracy, I did not see it. What I saw was a strategic rearrangement in positions of the same ruling class. A total caricature of the meaning of democracy in the strictest African traditional sense.
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Go back to the history of Nigeria since Independence and tell me how many of the old time politicians, that have brought nothing to our great nation but doom, are not represented in the present dispensation. Does it mean that after Obasanjo and his cohorts ruled Nigeria in Khaki and ordered the shooting of Nigerian students who were demonstrating to be heard, that we are yet to produce a Nigerian who is less dumb and more idealistic than Obasanjo. [ texte en entier ]
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Johnken Anyanwu, San Francisco, California 22 Apr 2003
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From the beginning it was apparent that this election was leading Nigeria to nowhere. The only question was whether the polls could be concluded without mayhem and the transition without turmoil. On this last point we still have to wait and see.
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The election was a choice between the devil and the dirty deep sea with another generation of Nigerians as the only losers.
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The saddest part of all is that the returning incumbents and those coming in have hardly shown themselves to be aware of the grave task at hand, to pull the country from its spiral of despair. Obasanjo is a dim spark filling a vacuum that needs supernova light. Lucky Igbinedion`s father agreed that his son had "failed" in his first term - so that meant he should be allowed to repeat! What does his re-election tell us, that we are so far from redemption that the end of the bottomless pit cannot be far away. [ texte en entier ]
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Gabriel Adeoye, London UK 22 Apr 2003
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My vote is useless... I can't see the reason why people go out there to vote. I am a student; I think the head of state, President Olusegun Obasanjo knows what the other countries do for people that don't have homes; before I can say we are really practising democracy the president [must] provide for the need of the poor by paying the people who has no work and giving out shelter, most especially to the students.
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Nigeria we are really going backward. Please, Obasanjo go away and others that follow you, let the youth rule. I think we can serve more better. Let the poor get to the top. None of you want us to move further. Please can someone tell me where they keep our oil money? I think that one alone can serve us. [ texte en entier ]
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Daniel's smile, NY USA 22 Apr 2003
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Those politicians calling for the cancellation of the election result are the defeated and discredited politicians who, in the first case, have no moral justification to remain a politician anyway. Their views should be ignored and we must move on.
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Kolajo O. Owolabi, Leicester UK 22 Apr 2003
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Elections conducted in any African country can never be presumed to be free and fair. It is unfortunate that citizens who have their country's interest at heart are not into politics, for reasons of being intimidated or assasinated by 'money-bags', whose selfish interests are to embezzle the treasury and transfer our money to already developed Western countries who use our stolen money to improve their economy, develop their countries and at same time accuse us of being corrupt.
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If our leaders use the money to develop our country and create jobs for the population, i don't think it will be difficult convicing the populace about their capabilities.
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Back to the topic, in the interest of peace in our country it is time politicians learn to accept defeat if they really have the country's interest at heart, which I doubt. Going to court to challenge the result will only prove the selfishness of the politicians who wants to win at all cost, without thinking of the repercussion. [ texte en entier ]
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Olubukonla, Athens - Greece 22 Apr 2003
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Congrats, Nigeria,
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To you winners, remember your promise, and to you losers, wait 4 next time,learn from what has happened, make good use of it and you will get victory.
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God bless Nigeria. I love you all.
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Kunle, Limerick, Ireland 22 Apr 2003
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Perhaps the Elections were flawed in some states. But still, the results and the manner of conduct favours the future development of Nigeria. The most inportant thing right now is that Nigeria moves on and becomes a steel producing and agro-industrial giant. All talks about democracy dividend, improving people's lives and tackling poverty are just rubbish unless this is achieved. The responsibility lies with all Nigerians, not just politicians.
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Tariq Okan, Amsterdam 22 Apr 2003
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I am happy for this opportunity given me on the web to express my feeling about the geneal elections in Nigeria. Let me start by saying that Nigeria is yet to fully deviate from her fraudulent way of conducting elections. It rather unfortunate to note that the media have been bought-out by the incumbent administration and therefore don't truly give the public the right image of things happening the country.
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Elections have been rigged in most local government areas and, in other cases, the loser announced as the winner, especially in Benue State. It is surprising to note that the PDP failled in the state and were announced winner after tumbling the results. Same happened in the National Assembly elections. Plateau State also took the same trend. In Enugu, Bayelsa and other areas elections were not held, yet a winner emerged, how? Elections were cancelled in Dekina LGA by the resident electoral commissioner, yet a winner was announced. [ texte en entier ]
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James T.A., Abuja, Nigeria. 22 Apr 2003
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Which way Nigeria? Challenging the poll result can never change the system. Re-voting will worsen the situation so far. Nigeria is so vast to be administered from the centre there is the need for a devolution of government so that in future elections things can be seen and done in the right form. Thank you
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Tony, Italy 22 Apr 2003
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It is quite unfortunate; my country which is endowed with vast potentials, people of high moral values and intellectual capability has to be continually governed by this same species of human being.
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They recycle themselves along the corridor of power to the shame of that geopolitical entity called Nigeria. People who have no ideas and never willing to accept the ideas of the nobles either.
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To lift this beloved country of ours from the present ramshackle and scandalous situation it is, the issue of national rebirth cannot be overemphasized. Inculcation of a sense of belonging and patriotism to the citizens is paramount. For our much anticipated enduring democracy, certain structures have to be put in place otherwise, we are just postponing the evil day. [ texte en entier ]
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Dedeigbo Olumola, Sydney , Australia 22 Apr 2003
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Nigeria's 2003 election was a proud moment for Africa despite the imperfections that, by the way, do occur even in advanced democracies. Anybody with specific evidence of electoral fraud should follow the established due process. I think it is an irresponsible distraction from the press to be fueling notions of electoral rigging based on disgruntled utterances by defeated candidates. It is a wonder how the vanquished candidates manage to accept victory where they won and see the polls differently where they could not prevail.
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Congratulations Nigeria !
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Evelyn Joe, Washington, DC 21 Apr 2003
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It is certainly gladdening to see beloved Nigeria take baby steps in the quest for an equitable approach to the administration of the land, resources, and people of our home. Our greed and lack of national interest are not furthering this objective.
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For once, in the interest of Nigeria, please give the rule of peace by an elected government the chance to try their hands at nation building. Somebody has to win. It does not really matter who does. The election is over. The next phase is nation building.
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All contestants need to sink their differences and join hands in the real job of providing life's basic needs to our people. Please team up and help build a virile and peaceful nation able to democratically elect its rulers. Good luck. [ texte en entier ]
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Jon Aibueku, Downey, CA. 21 Apr 2003
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The AD Governorship candidates performed woefully and knew that they could not win election on their own merit hence they tried to pull the rug off the feet of Yorubas by not fielding a presidential candidate in return for a free ride to a second term. They were wrong. Yoruba voters are much more educated and politically oriented than they thought. Can anybody say Lam Adesina, Adebayo, Akande, Adefarati or Osoba performed well while in office? No. It is ironical that these selfish opportunists are the ones shouting foul when they were voted out. They should bury their heads in shame.
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Ayo Aro, USA 21 Apr 2003
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Take a good look at the profile of all the presidential contestants, and you will be convinced Obasanjo is a better evil among the devils. Would one have prefered a timid Ayatollah to be the president of Nigeria in this new dispensation?
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Sylvester D Egbai, Elkridge,Md.USA 21 Apr 2003
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My dear Ladies and Gentlemen, this election shows that Nigerians are still in darkness. What we need is fair election; if not,it is better to call the British to rule Nigeria again. To be authentic, since the British hand over power, my country Nigeria keeps on falling down. The economy is very poor, the roads are very bad and the poor people don't have food to eat. Only God will save us.
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Tiger Okafor, Fitzgerald, Georgia U.S.A 21 Apr 2003
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What I'm saying is that Obasanjo did not suppose to remain at the seat by now. Many Nigerians are suffering, what's the man doing there? What type of politics? He's not caring about the masses.
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Kingsley., North Kansas, America. 21 Apr 2003
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The elections are encouraging, given the fact that Nigeria is just beginning to build a real democracy after a long period of military dictatorship. The overall satisfactory conduct of elections would improve with time as long as democracy is given a chance to mature. The election results should therefore be accepted by all parties, stakeholders and Nigerians as a whole.
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Professor Edwin Arinze, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada 21 Apr 2003
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I am in total support of the last speaker's opinion [in the Viewpoint above] - Mr. Bolaji Abdullahi. I think the election has come and gone. I do not support voiding the election because Nigeria is too under-developed to expect a fair election. I actually see Nigerian elections as a nomination of the highest bidder.
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Really, what Nigeria ought to be doing to avoid all this violence and rigging of elections would be to have a little zoning of all citizens into little groups. These groups will then appoint an agreeable number of trusted people as will be outlined by the constitution to vote on their behalf.
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A lot of Nigerians are uneducated. In a society with massive illiterates as ours, how do you expect a fair election anyway?. [ texte en entier ]
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Felix Osa-Oni, Nashville, TN, USA. 21 Apr 2003
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We live in an imperfect world with imperfect human beings. Although it is unfortunate that Nigerian leaders and their elites constitute the huge segment of our kleptocrats, we need time to weed them out from the body politik.
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Rome was not built in a day and the United States has not become a democracy overnight. Let us Nigerians move on and ahead. All that the ordinary man wants is peaceful co-existence, plus good drinking water, food, clothing, good roads, telephone and electricity. We are capable of building our country if there is peace.
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Emma S. Etuk, Ph.D., Washington, D.C. 21 Apr 2003
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President Olusegun "Ajasegun" Obasanjo and his party, the PDP, have won the elections. Let us support the president whole-heartedly to run a successful government. Nigeria has come a long way and it is about time we stop this nonsense of negative campaigning after the elections are over.
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Fellow patriotic countrymen/women, 'Put Nigeria first'. We need a better economy, good roads, better education, jobs, foreign investment, electricity, adequate water supply ,better communication systems, superior health management, competent managers and so on and so on . Many qualified Nigerians are only using their skills and intellect to better the economies of other countries while Nigeria is starving for skilled workers.
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Remember the late 70s when thousands of qualified Nigerians returned home to participate in the building of the nation? We should expect that era to return. May God bless Nigeria and fill it with God-fearing leaders. [ texte en entier ]
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Alhaji Chief Abass Adebisi Bakarey, Brooklyn, New York, U.S.A 21 Apr 2003
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I found your question very annoying and irrelevant. It reminds me of the role the Press plays in the West, asking the so-called "leading questions". What is it to be challenged in the elections? Those who lost deserved to lose. I am from Ekiti-state, and I know first hand that the now deposed Governor Adebayo did NOTHING for Ekiti people. Obasanjo CANNOT correct the damages done to the Country in 4 years. While everything was not 100-percent, all Nigerians should thank, and be proud of the excellent work the Director of the Indepedent Election body have done. To me, IT IS TIME FOR NIGERIA TO MOVE FORWARD. There is nothing to be challenged in the last elections. NIGERIA IS BACK & STRONG. [ texte en entier ]
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Olusegun Ayanbiola, Washington, USA 21 Apr 2003
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It's absolutely important that we sustain our hard-earned democracy. Even if Obasanjo is not the candidate that will take Nigeria to the promised land, he sure is the best amongst the motley crowd of presidential hopefuls.
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In Nigeria, politicians never lose graciously and do not mind setting the country on fire if they don't get what they want.
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I repeat, we are still seeking Messiahs for the nation but in the meantime most of these guys are practically the same. So my word for the losers is, go home and join hands with the victors, or if you are too bitter then plot your strategy for the next elections.
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Our national peace is more important than anyone's ambitions.
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Adebayo Ajagunna, London 21 Apr 2003
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If this election is massively rigged, it is shame on democracy. However, I am not supprised because there is virtually nothing that has not been rigged or founded on rigging in that country. Not even the sacred, divine and supposed holy structures have been spared of this Nigerian culture.
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For the sake of unity let every looser and winner accept their fate and verdict as both the winners and loosers schemed and rigged. The only difference is the variation in magnitude.
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Jerry Igbinoba, London 21 Apr 2003
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I strongly believe that the just-concluded presidential and the Governorship elections was a total support from the Almighty God. Most of the incumbent state governors that were defeated are reaping the fruits of their labour.
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However, I must state here that gone are the days when one political party will come and deceive the entire populace about what they know they can not provide for the masses. I say it with total confidence and assurance - people don't really care about the party any more, they count on the performance of the candidate either at the state level or at the national level. An example is the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the executive Governor of Lagos state.
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Oladokun Omooba Niyi, Lagos 21 Apr 2003
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Well, as may be expected, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and his PDP have won the election of 2003 and there is no need to stampede each other. Who does not know in this world that it is difficult to unseat an incumbent president, especially in the developing and the under-developed worlds and especially in our country Nigeria where no one is interested in anything but his or her pocket?
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Even if angels descend down to organise the elections there will still be grumblings from whoever loses. Buhari, [Obasanjo's] major rival used the same flimsy excuses to upstage the civilian, democratically elected government of Alhaji Shehu Shagari 20 years ago. If in today's modern world of advanced technology and the age of ICT Buhari and his cohorts are shouting foul play concerning this election, then where is the justification for his own criminal action of 31 December 1983? [ texte en entier ]
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Chief Olafimihan Awolola, Tokyo, Japan 21 Apr 2003
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From the comments of NUJ, women's group, AU observers etc., the election is free and fair. In any contest, there will winners and losers and if you are a loser this time, perhaps your turn to win may come in the next election in 4 years. To have the hope that you can perhaps have another trial next time, you have to help keep the peace in the country and not drag the economy of the country down the tube in any way. You should remember that whether you are in the government or opposition, you are all trying to build a healthy nation for you, your children and grand-children. So your help is needed whether as a loser or a winner. Good luck to all. [ texte en entier ]
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G. Ishola, Canada 21 Apr 2003
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It was obvious who was going to win the presidential elections months before. This is because, there was no organized opposition/resistance. Methinks for now, it's better PDP wins, because what really matters is that democracy is stabilised. Elections based on issues will take root in later years. Stable democracy is the winner in this election.
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No sour grapes please. Everybody rigged!
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Tunmishe Oke, Lagos, Nigeria 21 Apr 2003
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Of course, yes the opposition has the right to challenge the result because if you ignore, as you said, and move on it would not benefit the future of the country; moreover democracy is for everybody and everyone has his or her own right to contest with whatever he or she feels.
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Tobas Anotchili, USA 21 Apr 2003
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