A serving minister recently claimed that the crisis in the country is being fueled by those seeking to share power with the President. In my view, there’s nothing wrong with power sharing. It is only in countries like ours where losing an election is seen as a grave offense.
While it’s wrong for the opposition to try to destabilize the nation due to their exclusion from government, there is no harm in accommodating them. A coalition government is neither inferior nor illegitimate. Power sharing is crucial for democracy, as it reduces the risk of conflict among social groups and fosters accountability. It’s essential to prevent violent conflicts, avoid the tyranny of the majority, and ensure political stability.
Democracy and power sharing are closely linked, especially in a diverse society like ours. Nigeria’s unity remains an aspiration, and if power sharing can help achieve progress and harmony, we should embrace it. A monopoly of power by any group, tribe, or party breeds envy, hatred, disunity, and jealousy, regardless of how that party attained power.
Countries adopt coalition governments to foster inclusivity. In Nigeria’s First Republic, it was termed an “alliance,” and in the Second Republic, it was called an “accord.”
During his inaugural address on May 29, President Bola Tinubu stated:
“Today, fate and destiny join together to place the torch of human progress in our very hands. We dare not let it slip.”
His words underscored the need for governance that fosters compassion, brotherhood, and peace, with a promise to consult and dialogue without dictating.
