- MOCKINBIRD.COM.NG - A La Une - 17/Jun 13:24

POLITICIZATION OF THE BENUE KILLINGS: MOST UNFORTUNATE

 I read with deep shock and concern, statements credited to prominent national coalition leaders regarding the recent tragic killings in Benue State. While it is often said that all is fair in battle, it is disheartening that advocates of the "Rescue Nigeria" slogan would make such inciting and politicized remarks about a situation that should attract total condemnation from everyone.To politicize the senseless killing of innocent Nigerians is not only insensitive but grossly unfair, especially when the tragedy is clearly not as a result of government’s inaction. Rather, what we are witnessing are calculated attempts by politicians to create a sense of despair across the North Central part of the country for political gains. A failed attempt to paint a failing state under this administration.Elder statesmen ought to exercise restraint. Now is the time for them to "count their teeth with their tongue," as the Yoruba would say, and rise above the urge to score cheap political points. Where is our empathy? Where is our humanity? Where is our soul?What Nigeria needs at this point in time are constructive ideas, practical solutions, and collaborative efforts, not divisive rhetoric. There are established channels through which national figures can share useful insights with the government, rather than resorting to social media grandstanding.As an ordinary citizen, I humbly propose the establishment of a, “National Agrieved Elders' Security Advisory Council”, a forum that allows opposition elder statesmen and women to offer their views on how to tackle our current security challenges. This would at best eliminate the excuse of non-access to the President and ensure that valuable suggestions, if any, get to the appropriate quarters.It is laughable and tragic that people would claim to possess solutions to our national security crisis but would prefer to play God by holding back until they get into power in 2027. Such a stance reveals a lack of patriotism and disturbing willingness to let the nation bleed for political advantage.Let us all be reminded that the cracks in the wall and leaks on the roof of the Nigerian state are not President Tinubu’s fault, rather they are symptoms of deep-rooted systemic failures that date back to the very foundation of this Republic in 1999.It is therefore worth asking that if 99.9% of today’s coalition leaders were active players in government since 1999, what exactly do they have to offer now beyond their desperation to return to power, what new vision are they bringing to the table?Nigeria is greater than anyone’s ambition. The nation will outlive the pessimism and ill-will of those who wish to see it fail. And this administration, by God’s grace, will succeed not because it is perfect, but because future generations deserve a nation that is united, secure, and progressive.I come in peace.Hon. Adekunle Abdulkabir Akinlade (Triple A)Former Member, 8th National Assembly16th June 2025