President Bola Tinubu has extended his hearty congratulations to Ghana’s President-elect John Dramani Mahama, celebrating what he called a smooth and democratic victory in the December 7 general elections. In a phone call to Mahama, Tinubu expressed hope that Mahama’s return to power would foster stability in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). But honestly, can Nigeria even relate to such democratic elegance?
According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu hailed Ghanaians for their unwavering commitment to democracy, demonstrated by the peaceful and transparent elections. Yes, peaceful, something Nigerians can only dream of. While Ghana showcases democracy as a functional system of governance, Nigeria often treats elections like an action film where ballot boxes go missing, and voters flee from chaos.
Tinubu praised the losing candidate, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), for graciously conceding defeat even before Ghana’s Electoral Commission made an official declaration. Such humility and respect for process, Tinubu said, reinforced Ghana’s democratic ethos. Imagine that, conceding without resorting to lawsuits, protests, or conspiracy theories. Nigerian politicians have left the group chat.
The Nigerian president also noted that Mahama’s return to power, having previously served as president from 2012 to 2017, reflects the Ghanaian people’s trust in his leadership. “President-elect Mahama’s return to Jubilee House speaks volumes about his stewardship and vision,” Tinubu stated. This election unfolded without the drama Nigerians have grown accustomed to. No thugs. No violence. No hijacked polling units.
Tinubu emphasized his commitment to strengthening Nigeria-Ghana ties, citing shared history, cultural ties, and Pan-African goals. He also lauded outgoing Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo for his exemplary leadership and regional contributions. Sure, it’s great to celebrate Ghana’s success, but when will Nigeria stop being the regional troublemaker and start aspiring to similar democratic maturity?
While Tinubu looks forward to collaborating with Mahama’s administration to deepen economic and political integration, Nigerians can’t help but wonder when their own elections will mirror Ghana’s. Every election cycle in Nigeria seems to be marred by thuggery, ballot theft, or outright voter intimidation. It’s as if Nigeria treats democracy as a suggestion rather than a standard.
Ghana’s seamless electoral process serves as a slap in the face to Nigeria. Maybe one day, we’ll have elections where the headlines focus on democratic success rather than chaos, lawsuits, and missing election materials. Until then, we’ll continue to applaud Ghana’s democracy while struggling to clean up our own messy political act.
