The reported freezing of Osun State's accounts by the EFCC just days before a crucial election raises profound questions about the timing and the growing pattern of using state institutions in ways that risk undermining public confidence in our democracy.
This is disturbingly reminiscent of what happened during the AMAC election, where a curfew was imposed on the eve of the poll, creating confusion, restricting movement, discouraging participation, and contributing to voter suppression. Whether through financial strangulation, administrative actions, or security measures, the effect is the same: citizens are denied a level playing field, and the democratic process is weakened.
Democracy cannot survive when institutions created to protect the rule of law are perceived as instruments of political advantage. Elections should be contests of ideas and the free will of the people, not battles won through the strategic deployment of government agencies and state power.
Nigeria is approaching a defining moment. If every election is preceded by actions that intimidate, suppress, or manipulate voters and elected institutions, we are not merely undermining opposition parties; we are eroding the very foundations of constitutional democracy. The greatest threat to our nation today is not political competition, it is the normalization of using the machinery of government to influence electoral outcomes.
History will not judge us by who won an election, but by whether we defended the sanctity of the democratic process. Those entrusted with public institutions must remember that their ultimate loyalty is to the Constitution and the Nigerian people, not to any administration or political interest. -DrMo
The handshake teaches RECONCILIATION.
Peace begins with willingness.
The handshake teaches RESPECT.
Understanding starts before agreement.
Extend your hand before raising your voice. -DrMo