A viral video showing Edo State APC Chairman Jarrett Tenebe has sparked concerns about the state of democracy in Nigeria. In the video, Tenebe appears to warn that anyone standing in the path of his party's electoral objective would face "AK-47 fire". This remark has been widely criticized, with many calling for politicians to focus on persuading voters with better arguments rather than resorting to threats and intimidation. The incident has raised questions about the limits of political rhetoric and the role of institutions in maintaining democratic order.
The incident has been condemned by many, who argue that politics should be about persuading voters, not intimidating them. Eligible voters, they argue, carry PVCs, not rifles, and politicians should approach them with arguments, not ammunition. In a democracy, elections are contests, not conquests, and votes must be courted, not commanded. The emphasis on persuasion over coercion is crucial in ensuring that the democratic process is not undermined by threats and violence.
Tenebe's remark has been defended by some as a metaphorical expression, but critics argue that such language can still have a chilling effect on voters and opponents. The incident has also raised questions about the pattern of incendiary rhetoric in Nigerian politics. Senator Francis Fadahunsi reportedly made a similar remark in the past, suggesting that anyone opposing his party would be killed, before clarifying that he meant electoral defeat, not physical harm.
The issue has also highlighted the role of institutions in maintaining democratic order. The Police and DSS have been called upon to investigate the incident, while INEC has been urged to uphold the democratic process. The institutions' role is to investigate and ensure that the democratic process is not undermined, rather than to condemn or challenge every boast or claim made by politicians.
The pattern of incendiary rhetoric in Nigerian politics extends beyond explicit threats. Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has been accused of suggesting that he "stopped" Peter Obi from winning the election in Rivers State, and implied that a different result might have emerged had presidential power been fully used. While Wike disputes claims that his remarks imply manipulation, his language has been criticized for testing the boundaries of democratic influence and control.
The issue has also raised questions about the use of metaphor and rhetorical language in politics. Before the 2015 Lagos governorship election, the Oba of Lagos was widely reported to have warned Igbo leaders about the consequences of opposing his preferred candidate. Similar controversies have surrounded comments attributed to Oluremi Tinubu. Metaphor may soften intent, but it can also normalize language that less powerful citizens experience as threatening.
Ultimately, the incident has highlighted the need for politicians to focus on persuading voters with better arguments, rather than resorting to threats and intimidation. The democratic process relies on the free and fair participation of citizens, and politicians must respect the boundaries of democratic engagement. The institutions responsible for maintaining democratic order must also play their role in ensuring that the process is not undermined by incendiary rhetoric or violent threats.
Key points
- Politician's gunpoint remark sparks concerns about democracy in Nigeria
- Incendiary rhetoric is a pattern in Nigerian politics
- Institutions must play a role in maintaining democratic order
