Some progress appears to have been made in unravelling those behind the murder of Mr. Olaitan Oyerinde, even though this is shrouded in controversy.
That election is important to us in that available evidence to the general public and the testimonies of election observers from all over the world indicate that though the election was not totally problem-free, it conformed to the general wishes of the Edo electorate.
In fact, many commentators have held up that election as a model for future such exercises, even though the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was widely criticised for many avoidable lapses, especially timely delivery of electoral materials.
However, the main opposition party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is sending conflicting signals. While both the state executive council of the party, led by Chief Dan Orbih and the party’s candidate, retired Major General Charles Airhiavbere, complained of serious infractions during the election, the party has decided not to join its candidate in his determination to seek redress at the Electoral Tribunal which has already been constituted.
Orbih hinged the decision on wide legal and political consultations within and outside the state.
We are happy that the level of bitterness that accompanied the electioneering campaigns have not extended to post electoral issues.
The decision of the party not to distract the smooth flow of governance is probably a reciprocation of Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s declaration to involve the PDP in all aspects of governmental benefits as bona fide stakeholders.
Despite all the sabre-rattling during the campaigns, Oshiomhole had also granted the PDP free access to the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium for the launching of their campaigns.
And on Tuesday, August 7, 2012 the state government placed full page congratulatory adverts in newspapers to honour Chief Tony Anenih on his 79th birthday.
This is the beauty of democracy, whereby after an electoral contest, the larger interests of the state and its people will overshadow the euphoria of triumph and disappointment of loss of individuals and groups. That is the spirit of politics without bitterness, a noble legacy which the late leader of the defunct Great Nigerian People’s Party (GNPP), Alhaji Waziri Ibrahim, left us with.
For those who wish to explore their constitutional right to seek justice at the Tribunal, we urge that it should be conducted with decorum by all concerned. It is a legitimate part of the democratic process. However, it is always preferable for losers to congratulate winners and allow governance a seamless run while they prepare for the next election.
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