Chaiii, what a shameful show of subservience. It is a sad, sad new day for Edo State.
And please, don’t get it twist for a second, a new Edo is not rising anytime soon. No, not with a Monday Okpebholo, the fraudulently declared governor-elect of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
Since the stomach turning video of Okpebholo, with his deputy, Denis Idahosa, accompanied by a prattling old man renowned for his uncontrollable diarrhea of the mouth hit the internet, men and women of conscience have been shocked beyond reaction.
History, they say, is the record of past and present events arranged in a chronological order. Okpebholo has just infamously written the name of Edo State in Nigeria’s political history as the only sub-sovereign governor-elect (albeit controversially) so far, unashamedly kneeling down to the President. For what, you may want to ask. This, certainly, is a new low worthy of the attention of the Guinness Book of Records.
The internet has since gone into over drive following that ignominious spectacle of a supposed governor-elect kneeling in submission, ostensibly to express gratitude for a controversially attained victory. It is a striking low point in Nigeria’s political history. This act, perceived as a desperate show of subservience, raises profound questions about the integrity of leadership and the values being celebrated in our political landscape.
Instead of embodying strength and vision, this display reflects a troubling culture of sycophancy, where acknowledgment of power is prioritized over the principles of accountability and democratic integrity.
At a time when Edo State should be striving for progress and unity, this act only serves to show a new low in the display of leadership inferiority complex, the lack of self confidence and a complete self deprecation by an individual who ought to show charisma, character, strength, vision and enchanting aura. It’s a sad day indeed. What a shame!
The idea that one must kneel to acknowledge a victory tainted by allegations of fraud is not just shameful, it is an affront to the democratic ideals that citizens expect from their leaders. Such abhorrent display of subservience undermine the very essence of governance, which should be rooted in service to the people rather than the glorification of power through subjugation.
Edo State deserves leaders who are not only an embodiment of the pride borne out of their illustrious history but also those willing to stand up for justice, equity, and genuine progress; not those who kneel in compromise with unconvincing persona. This sad and odious moment should prompt serious reflection on the trajectory of political leadership in Nigeria.
If we are to reclaim our narrative and ensure a brighter future for our state, we must reject subservience and demand accountability from those who seek to represent us. The ultimate challenge lies in transforming this culture into one that celebrates integrity, courage, and genuine service to the people. Only then can we aspire to rise above the shameful displays that currently mar our political landscape.
Orobosa writes from Benin City, Edo State capital
