A former presidential candidate of the Young Progressive Party in the 2019 general elections, Kingsley Moghalu, has defended his recent comments supporting the success of President Bola Tinubu’s government, despite criticism from some quarters.
Earlier, a humanist, Dr Aloy Chife on April 26, via X noted that ‘true’ Nigerians would not want the government of Tinubu to fail.
Chife wrote, “No true Nigerian patriot wants Tinubu to fail. Regardless of his path to the throne, and political differences, the overall interest of the nation is paramount. What we want to see is a coherent/ workable plan to change our fortunes. Fundamental structural changes are imperative.”
Reacting to his post, Moghalu affirmed his support for the statement saying, “Agreed. A sensible and mature position. The interest of Nigeria and Nigerians in terms of actual governance performance, regardless of partisan political differences, should be paramount.”
This brought about criticism from X users.
However, Moghalu, in a statement released on Monday via X, emphasised his non-partisan approach and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.
“I am not surprised at criticism from some quarters after I supported the view expressed by Dr. Aloy Chife that we should hope for the success of the Nigeria government and President Bola Tinubu.
“Let me make myself clear. What happens with elections should be a matter for the electoral process and the courts afterwards. In between, Nigeria must be governed,” Moghalu stated.
Moghalu argued that it is in the interest of Nigeria’s 200 million citizens that governance produces results, regardless of who is in charge.
“That is why, as a citizen and a thought and opinion leader, I occasionally comment, including with critiques and suggestions,” he explained adding that, “Those comments do not demonize anyone, because I am not partisan.”
The former presidential candidate underscored his complete withdrawal from partisan politics in Nigeria since late 2022, when he returned to full-time professional life.
“For those that may be hard of hearing, I have completely withdrawn from partisan politics in Nigeria, and therefore do not think or act like a ‘partisan’ anymore.
“My choices, including a commitment to nonpartisan statesmanship since I left the ‘arena’ in late 2022 and returned to full time professional life, are mine alone and I have no apologies to offer anyone,” he stated.
Moghalu expressed his desire for Nigeria’s success, irrespective of who is in power, stating, “I wish Nigeria well, regardless of who is in power.”
He highlighted the sacrifices and risks he has taken, saying, “Few have made the kinds of sacrifices I have made, taken the risks I have taken, going beyond typing on social media to actually take the bull by the horns. I have played my part.”
While acknowledging the right of aggrieved citizens to air their disappointment over elections, particularly the 2023 presidential elections, Moghalu emphasised the need for maturity and understanding that democracy is not a one-way street.
“This does not remove the right of citizens who are aggrieved about elections, and in particular the 2023 presidential elections, to hold and air their disappointment. But democracy is not a one-way highway. Understanding this is maturity,” he stated.