By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo
During a recent interview, Peter Obi, a Presidential aspirant of the Labour party, revealed that he received donations totaling around $1.5 million from Nigerians living in the diaspora.
Considering the anticipation leading up to last year’s campaigns and the social media excitement, one would have expected it to be an effortless task to raise $50 million from Nigerians in the diaspora to support change. Imagine the number of television commercials that could have been aired during prime time or the multitude of billboards that could have been erected in various states across the country.
The diasporans often discuss the corruption within the system, lamenting the dismal state of affairs in Nigeria. They express their desire to return home if there was a change in governance and if honest leaders took charge. Peter Obi traveled extensively around the world, speaking to packed auditoriums.
People eagerly waited for hours to see him, some even driving long distances. His message resonated with both young and old, regardless of religion or tribe. What they sought was a capable leader who could revitalize Nigeria, stabilize the economy, generate employment opportunities, and restore respect to the Nigerian passport on a global scale.
They expressed admiration for him, labeling him a remarkable individual and one of Nigeria’s brightest sparks in recent times. But unfortunately, that’s where their support ended. They refrained from contributing financially. It was all mere talk.
Even within the country, Peter Obi attracted large crowds. He excelled in debates, leaving the opposition party, APC, scrambling to fact-check him repeatedly. Yet, when it came to fundraising for his campaign, his staunch supporters shied away.
Throughout Nigeria, various Peter Obi support groups emerged, fiercely defending their idol online. They brooked no opposition to their beloved candidate. However, when election time arrived, the Labour party struggled to recruit enough volunteers and lacked agents at numerous polling stations. Victories in elections are achieved through the hard work of individuals.
Unfortunately, most of those willing to volunteer were not mobilized by the party to make the necessary preparations. Frustrated, thousands decided to return home. This reveals the extent of our love for the country, as we express our support with words rather than opening our wallets.
Unsurprisingly, the 2023 presidential election was won by a candidate who understood the language of politics: spending money and mobilizing individuals to carry out necessary tasks.
Elections have come and gone, and less than a year later, Nigerians are filled with regret. They cry within the confines of their homes, but the deed is done. The time for prayers has passed. Reality confronts us every day; it’s the hunger, hardship, and frustration evident on the faces of people on the streets.
Now, Nigerians find themselves wishing for a coup—a mere dream. A coup is nearly impossible in Nigeria. People would ridicule any coup plotters. How would they even announce a coup? Via social media or through radio and TV stations? Have you considered the number of radio stations in Lagos or Ibadan alone? Almost a hundred. Forget about a coup in Nigeria. This is not Niger or Senegal.
The future of Nigeria rests in the hands of its civilian populace. We will only break free when we are truly prepared. We will confront our leaders, demanding answers as we take to the streets without resorting to violence. We will gather in front of parliament houses and residences of political leaders, determined to hold them accountable. The day we can leave the comfort of our homes and offices and mobilize hundreds of thousands of youths in every state, marching and singing, demanding that business cannot continue as usual—that will be the day we know we are ready to reclaim our country. It is on that day that godfatherism will be buried.
Until then, we are merely playing mind games with ourselves.
By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo ( The Storyteller)
Tel; 08109975621
07054674906
Email; nigeria360online@gmail.com
Leave a Reply