After the primaries, what next?

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has produced President Goodluck Jonathan as its flag-bearer, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) has General Muhammadu Buhari as its presidential candidate. Both candidates have made promises on improving the lots of Nigerians if elected in 2015.The primary elections have brought even more pressure on both parties. The candidates know […]

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has produced President Goodluck Jonathan as its flag-bearer, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) has General Muhammadu Buhari as its presidential candidate. Both candidates have made promises on improving the lots of Nigerians if elected in 2015.
The primary elections have brought even more pressure on both parties. The candidates know that time is of essence. As tension heats up, the parties are already engaged in blame-games with dirty politicking.
The fears around the coming elections are the likely outbreak of violence, going by incidents that characterised the 2011 elections, which included violence, snatching of ballot boxes, alleged massive election rigging, abductions and corrupt practices. We are living witnesses to the fact that after the announcements of the results of 2011 elections many lives and property were lost, especially in the northern parts of the country.
Recently, the International Crisis Group, a non-governmental organisation committed to preventing deadly conflicts, warned that Nigeria may be heading towards volatile general elections next year. The group also appealed to politicians to watch what they do and also abstain from actions that could lead to chaos in the country. While the primaries are over, there are still noticeable political activities that require maturity and responsibilities among the candidates, party leaders and their supporters.
It is encouraging the central themes of campaigns from both candidates. President Goodluck Jonathan has assured Nigerians that he wouldn’t fail them as he vigorously pursue his transformation agenda for their benefit. On the other hand, General Buhari has promised that he would address the insecurity in the country because, as he said, he has the ability to tackle insurgency in the country.
It is necessary to call on the political parties to deploy better campaign strategies to win the supports of the electorate. The sharing of food items and money may appeal to the poverty-ridden citizens, but there should be better campaign tools in winning the hearts of the people.
The use of the media, such as the television, radio and newspapers to create awareness about the political parties and their manifestos, are appropriate channel.
Nigerian politicians should avoid unethical practices, as well as other electoral malpractices in their campaigns. They should also try as much as possible to make the elections free and fair.
While law enforcement officers, especially the security agencies should come out in full force to prevent the breakdown of law and order, the judiciary must be fair and just in their adjudication without fear or favour.
They should watch out for those encouraging violence, and prosecute them, irrespective of their political status.
The traditional rulers, community leaders and religious bodies should be aware that they are part and parcel of Nigeria. They should therefore, sensitise their followers against political violence, campaign of hatred, electoral malpractices, ethnic chauvinism and religious bigotry.
In conclusion, Nigerians should join hand to ensure that the forthcoming elections are free, fair and peaceful. We should be united to shame our enemies who claim that Nigeria will collapse in 2015. We should ensure that prediction is debunked by our actions and deeds.
As a religious country we should intensify prayers for best leaders to emerge in all elections, to lead our nation to greatness.
Chuks Eneze, History Department University of Abuja.