Lafia Political Crisis: Politicians Must Stop Putting Personal Ambitions Above the People
The recent political chaos in Lafia has once again exposed the growing tension surrounding political activities in the community and raised serious questions about the responsibility of political leaders in maintaining peace and stability.
Politics should be about service to the people, competition of ideas and the pursuit of development. Unfortunately, when political disagreements become personal battles, ordinary citizens, particularly youths, often become the ones who suffer the consequences.
Lafia cannot afford a political culture in which supporters are encouraged, directly or indirectly, to confront one another over the ambitions of political actors.
Political leaders must understand that their supporters are members of the same community, neighbours, friends and relatives.
The responsibility for maintaining peace should not be left entirely to security agencies. Political leaders themselves must demonstrate restraint in their speeches, conduct and mobilisation of supporters.
There is also an urgent need for political stakeholders to embrace dialogue.
Where disagreements arise, they should be addressed through established democratic and legal channels rather than confrontation, provocation or actions capable of inflaming tensions.
The people of Lafia deserve better. They deserve political leadership that prioritises security, employment, education, infrastructure, economic opportunities and the general welfare of citizens.
Political power is temporary, but the consequences of political violence can last for generations.
As political activities intensify ahead of 2027, this is the time for all political actors to reflect deeply. No political ambition is greater than the peace, unity and future of Lafia.
Lafia belongs to all of us, not to any political party, individual or political group.
By Amb. Abubakar Lawal Suleiman, MAPSA, Rimi Uku
Veteran Journalist and Public Affairs Commentator
Email abubakarlawal6767@gmail.com
07044838108
