Let’s call events of last two weeks by its name: A revolution!

They say in the last two weeks, elections were held in Nigeria. I wonder how long it will take Nigerians to realise and call those events by its proper name…a revolution!

The movement came with a wind of change that has left its indelible footprint in the sand of Nigeria’s political and democratic history. At long last, the card reader technology used in Nigeria’s unforgettable 2015 presidential election have protected the votes of the common man, something that has previously failed. A good number of Nigerians had lost a great deal of faith in the electoral process; and the flaws in the voting and collation procedures in 2011 left a bitter taste in many palettes. This year, INEC has redeemed itself by displaying general efficiency and fairness in the exercise. It is now long overdue for Nigerians to rise up to the challenge of looking ahead and paving way for a brighter future and a better tomorrow. This exciting revolutionary wave of independence and dignity has been restored back in the hands of our beloved Nigerians. Not unlike the Arab Spring, Nigeria’s political awakening has brought positive change into ordinary lives. And sometimes it takes a selfless act of courage by an ordinary citizen to change a system.

On 18 December 2010 in Tunisia, Mohammed Bouazizi, a struggling street vendor, burnt himself to death in protest of the dismal living conditions of the working class in his country after he was harassed by local officials and his vegetable cart seized. His death was symbolic because he represented a large percentage of struggling working class Tunisians at the time. In the proceeding weeks, many Tunisians poured into the streets, outraged at the death of an innocent victim, which they saw as a result of the apparent injustice of the then Ben Ali government. The dictatorial regime, which had never been supported by Western countries, had imposed stringent laws and regulations and a distinct lack of freedom of speech or expression.

Nigeria’s rich cultural history and vast mineral resources as well as gigantic population has meant that it has been described as the giant of Africa. Nigeria’s history can be traced to prehistoric settlers dating back to 11,000 BC. In 1885, Britain colonised Nigeria and it became a British protectorate in 1901, and this lasted till 1960, when Nigeria gained its independence. Since independence, Nigeria has had four republics. The separatist movement of Republic of Biafra in 1967 led to a three-year civil war with devastating circumstances, especially for the Igbo. Prior to President Goodluck Jonathan’s government, this dark chapter of our country’s history has sometimes been bought into question by historical theorists as to whether Nigeria is more diversified than it is unified. But President Jonathan, being from the South-South region of Nigeria, with his concession call to the President-Elect, General Muhammadu Buhari,  has shown that while the painful memories of the civil war have not been entirely eradicated, his leadership has gone a long way towards bridging the gap of diversity with the Northern, South- Eastern and South- Western regions.

The massive wind of revolutionary change that has engulfed Nigeria, has seen Nigerians transcend beyond the borders of religious, social and ethnic affiliations. This is a gigantic step for the country’s progression, unlike the elections held in 2011 when a good majority of Nigerians voted for their ethnic and religious counterparts. The reason for this might have been the breakdown in security of the country by the terrorist group Boko Haram. Many churches and mosques were burned, innocent Christians and even Muslims were slaughtered mercilessly. Till this day, it is difficult and nearly impossible to say precisely how many innocent souls have been massacred by Boko Haram; definitely hundreds.  Accusing fingers pointed to several groups as regards to the sponsors of the sophisticated weapons used by Boko Haram; and a terrible cloud of suspicion seemed to have cloaked Nigeria’s society. Therefore, it seemed natural in 2011 for many Nigerians to vote along the lines of religion or ethnicity and a lot of propaganda was used as a powerful and effective tool to gain votes and popularity by many politicians.  But the elections of 2015 have shifted those dynamics totally. Nigerians seemed to have emancipated themselves of their diverse beliefs. It has been a freedom of exhilarating proportions.

The mood in Nigeria is presently one of hopeful expectations for a bright future for all; rich, poor, young and old. People are more confident about the economy as early signs show that even the dollar has fallen in recent days against the naira. The focus should no longer be on which party one is loyal to but ensuring that all Nigerians come together and work has a team to rebuild trust and strengthen our economy. The sacrifices of Nigeria’s forefathers who fought for the country’s independence should not be allowed to go in vain. The foundation has already been set for the country to move forward and achieve greatness; now seems to be the time for Nigerians to rise to the occasion and shine brightly for the world to witness this revolutionary renaissance. Nigerians are free of prejudice and suspicion. The shackles of unease have been lifted and a bright light is flickering in the hearts of millions.

The giddy, patriotic fervor engulfing Nigeria in 2015 is a step in the right direction towards making this nation great. The specialized skills of millions of Nigerian doctors, engineers, architects and others may probably now be available to resident Nigerians; for if the relative calm of security continues, many in Diaspora could choose to come back home and join hands in rebuilding Nigeria. The national call of the anthem for Nigerians to serve selflessly their motherland with love and strength and faith will finally being heeded.

Challenges and difficulties due to insecurity that have been a part of life for ordinary Nigerians are hopefully going to be in the past. It is not impossible that Nigeria’s growing economy will be amongst those to reckon with in the not-so-distant-future. For this country is too richly endowed and blessed not to be a success. The powerful impact of the Nigerian spirit remains indelible in all patriotic Nigerians. A truly valuable lesson was learnt in 2015; and that is united Nigerians are vibrant and strong. Transcending ethnicity and religion has meant that without prejudice; Nigerians make a superb and enviable team.

Going back to the words of our national anthem, “Arise O Compatriots…!” For this time marks the new dawn of an exciting era in a remarkable tomorrow.

With that said, they say in the last two weeks, elections were held in Nigeria. I continue to wonder how long it will take Nigerians to realise and call those recent events by its proper name…a revolution!

Written By Hannatu Musawa

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