Editorial
By: Femi Emmanuel
Political disagreements are inevitable in a democratic setting, but when such disputes degenerate into violence, the consequences are often tragic and irreparable. The recent clash between loyalists of the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and the Minister of Interior, Tunji Olubunmi Ojo, over the leadership structure of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State is a sobering reminder of this reality.
What began as an internal party disagreement has taken an unpleasant and dangerous turn. Loyalists aligned with the two political figures reportedly escalated issues that should have been resolved amicably into open violence. In the process, the state recorded the loss of two lives, while at least five others sustained varying degrees of injury. These are grim statistics that leave an indelible mark not only on the victims and their families but also on the political conscience of the state.
It is deeply concerning that a disagreement over party supremacy was allowed to fester to the point of bloodshed. Political leaders bear a fundamental responsibility to manage conflicts with diplomacy, restraint, and foresight. Any dispute handled with tact and maturity can be resolved without resort to violence. The failure to promptly address this looming disagreement has now plunged Ondo State into avoidable tension and grief.
Stakeholders, including the two principal actors and party leaders, must urgently rise to the occasion by calling their supporters to order. Peace must be restored through dialogue, reconciliation, and respect for human life. Violence is never a solution; life has no duplicate, and no political ambition is worth the blood of any citizen.
Supporters and loyalists must also reflect deeply on the value of their lives. Their existence is precious to themselves, their families, and society at large. No political cause justifies risking one’s life or becoming a victim of thuggery. Notably, the political leaders at the center of this dispute have children of their own, yet they would never allow them to be used as instruments of violence. Why, then, should supporters offer their lives so cheaply?
Political loyalty is commendable, but it becomes dangerous when it demands the sacrifice of one’s life for another’s ambition. Politics is transient; power changes hands. However, the scars of violence—whether physical, emotional, or psychological—remain permanent for victims and bereaved families. No amount of compensation can equate to a life lost or restore a future cut short.
In the final analysis, political violence is never worth the bloodshed of human beings. Politics will pass, but the pain of loss endures. Leaders and followers alike must choose peace, dialogue, and humanity over destruction.
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