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| Sowore's critique of Nigeria's 2023 election process. |
Omoyele Sowore openly criticized Nigeria's 2023 presidential election legitimacy in a recent interview. He asserts Bola Tinubu's presidency resulted from INEC selection rather than a genuine electoral mandate. Sowore contends the process was fundamentally flawed and lacking in transparency somehow. The Nigerian populace did not give Tinubu a genuine electoral mandate.
Sowore's remarks came in response to statements from Felix Morka, the All Progressives Congress (APC) publicity secretary, who had issued warnings to Peter Obi, the Labour Party's presidential candidate. Obi had previously criticized the current administration's handling of political, economic, security, and healthcare issues, suggesting that the government's portrayal of progress does not align with the realities faced by Nigerians.
Morka retorted by cautioning Obi, stating, "Peter Obi has crossed the line so many times and has it coming to him whatever he gets." Sowore, addressing this exchange during his interview, emphasized that leaders who ascend to power without genuine electoral support are often defensive against criticism. He stated, "Tinubu wasn’t elected by the Nigerian people; he was selected by INEC. It was votes allocation; everybody understood that."
He elaborated that such leaders lacking legitimacy tend to be more concerned with silencing dissent rather than addressing the nation's pressing issues. If you are legitimately a leader of people and working for people, why will you be worried that people are criticizing you? Sowore questioned the highlighting of the defensive posture of the current administration.
Sowore's critique highlights a concern about Nigeria's electoral process integrity and genuine democratic representation. His comments prompt Nigerians to reflect deeply on democracy's current state and the urgent need for reforms that truly echo people's will somehow.
Sowore's assertions raise critical questions about the transparency and fairness of electoral processes in Nigeria. Engaging in open and balanced discussions on this topic is essential for the nation's democratic health. Nigerians are encouraged to share their perspectives, experiences, and suggestions on how to strengthen the electoral system to ensure it genuinely represents the people's will.