Biden’s Legitimization of Tinubu’s Victory: Lessons for Atikulators and Obidients By Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah 

Biden’s Legitimization of Tinubu’s Victory: Lessons for Atikulators and Obidients By Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah

The recent events surrounding the US government’s recognition of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory in the Nigerian presidential election have caused quite a stir among his opponents, particularly Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.

President Joe Biden’s delegation attending Tinubu’s inauguration further exacerbated the frustration felt by these individuals and their supporters. This article explores the implications of Biden’s actions and the lessons that can be learned by those who opposed Tinubu’s triumph.

Tinubu’s Triumph and the Reaction

Despite the relentless attempts to undermine Tinubu’s credibility, Nigerians saw through the orchestrated attacks and elected him as their president. Tinubu’s victory serves as a testament to his uprightness, competency, persistency, strategic thinking, and calculated schemes. His win signifies that the Nigerian people recognized his qualities and believed he was the best candidate for the job.

The Shock of Atikulators and Obidients

The phone call between Secretary of State Antony Blinken and President-elect Tinubu was met with anger from Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the contender for the presidential seat from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Similarly, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, expressed his disapproval of the phone call. However, their dismay didn’t end there. President Joe Biden’s decision to send a high-powered delegation to Tinubu’s inauguration added insult to injury for the Atikulators and Obidients.

Lessons to Be Learned

1. Accepting Election Outcomes: The events surrounding Tinubu’s victory underscore the importance of accepting election outcomes, even when they don’t align with one’s preferences. Democracy thrives on respect for the will of the people, and challenging the legitimacy of an elected leader without substantial evidence undermines the democratic process.
2. Recognizing Competence and Integrity: Tinubu’s triumph highlights the significance of recognizing and valuing competence and integrity in leadership. The Nigerian electorate saw beyond the smear campaigns and chose a candidate they believed possessed the qualities necessary to lead the nation.
3. Avoiding Personal Bias: The proverb, “Person wey wan fly like eagle, no go follow turkey dey waka” encapsulates the lesson of avoiding personal bias. It serves as a reminder that personal feelings and biases should not cloud judgment when evaluating leadership potential. Objectivity and a focus on merit should guide political decisions.
4. Embracing Unity and Statesmanship: In the face of Tinubu’s victory, it is crucial for all political actors to embrace unity and statesmanship. Divisive rhetoric and actions only serve to hinder progress and impede the nation’s development. Building bridges and working together, despite ideological differences, will contribute to a stronger and more inclusive Nigeria.

The legitimization of Tinubu’s victory by President Joe Biden and the US government has had a profound impact on those who opposed his ascension to the presidency.