Key Takeaways
- President Tinubu\'s remark that "all is fair in politics" has sparked controversy and debate
- Professor Damian Opata, National Chairman of the South East Movement for Tinubu 2027, provides context and historical roots of the expression
- Opata urges restraint in commentary and conduct ahead of the 2027 general elections to ensure free, fair, and credible elections
Professor Damian Opata, a renowned Professor of African Literature, has offered his insights on the controversy surrounding President Bola Tinubu\'s recent remark that "all is fair in politics". According to Opata, the statement is neither new nor peculiar to Nigeria\'s political history, and can be better understood in the context of the popular saying, "All is fair in love and war".
Opata made these remarks while reacting to criticisms that followed the President\'s comment during a recent meeting with Catholic bishops. He argued that the expression has historical roots in English literature and is a reflection of political realism. However, he also acknowledged that the remark had attracted public concern and that critics were justified in arguing that the President, as the nation\'s leader, should exercise greater caution in his choice of words.
Understanding the Context
The controversy surrounding President Tinubu\'s remark began after he met with Catholic bishops, who presented a document calling for free and fair elections, improved security, and good governance for the common good. The President, in his response, highlighted improvements in the education and security sectors, and reiterated that freedom of religion is already guaranteed under the Constitution.
Opata claimed that the bishops applauded the President at different points during his response, but also noted that the bishops\' address did not sufficiently emphasize the responsibilities of all political parties in ensuring free and fair elections. He observed that the burden should not rest solely on the President, governors, local government chairmen, or members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Machiavellian Principle
Opata further argued that the President\'s remark could be interpreted within the framework of the Machiavellian principle that "the end justifies the means", which he described as a philosophy rooted in political pragmatism and realpolitik. He maintained that such pragmatic approaches are not limited to politics but can also be found in institutions such as universities, religious organizations, the police, the civil service, and the business sector.
Opata added that similar approaches have, at different times, been adopted by institutions around the world in addressing complex challenges. However, he urged the media and members of the public to exercise restraint in their commentary, particularly in regards to trivial issues such as the President\'s facial expression during the meeting with the bishops.
Why This Matters
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, Opata\'s comments serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible leadership and conduct. By urging restraint in commentary and conduct, Opata hopes to contribute to the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections, and to promote a **strong** and **stable** democracy in Nigeria. The nation\'s leaders must exercise caution in their words and actions, and prioritize the principles of fairness, justice, and **transparency** to ensure a prosperous future for all Nigerians.