DELTA STATE AND THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF VIGOROUS OPPOSITION IN DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE

In a multiparty democracy, the presence of a robust opposition is imperative as it serves as a critical check on the incumbent government's actions. This mechanism helps prevent public funds misuse and protects citizens' rights.

Under the parliamentary governance system, opposition parties often establish shadow governments, positioning themselves as capable alternatives to the ruling party. This proactive approach allows them to offer citizens viable options and hold the government accountable when necessary. The opposition's role extends beyond providing alternatives; it involves constructive criticism to keep the ruling party vigilant. By consistently scrutinizing the government's actions, the opposition ensures that those in power know oversight. This fosters a more focused and effective administration dedicated to serving the people.

The 2023 election and the litigation process have come and ended, while the victors rejoiced, the losers brooded. No doubt lessons have been learned. However, the end of an election cycle is the beginning of another. Now, the party can move to the next level to perform its role as a vibrant opposition party. Despite twenty-four years of democratic governance, Delta State historically lacks a vibrant opposition. Past years saw sporadic and seasonal opposition, often limited to election periods and lacking effective organization or sustained campaigns.

In our land, people are quick to make peace with incompetent leaders because of venality, rational self-interest, and fear. Very few Deltan elites have shown any testicular fortitude over the past two decades and taken a more aggressive stance against dysfunctional governance. "Delta no dey carry last" has become a mere euphemism. Gone are our forefathers' manly traits: dignity, reliability, strength, and stoicism. Among elite members, “manliness” simply means abandoning decency in favour of quick financial gratification, which has brought nothing but underdevelopment and misery to the people.

Our legislative representatives might be among the worst of the shameless sycophants, lacking an understanding of legislative responsibility to their constituents, as they have all forgotten their oversight functions. Their behaviour is understandable — immoral and unethical — but still inexplicable.

No entity has developed and progressed through the timid obsequiousness that characterizes most elite groups within the State. These elite groups have refused to take a more aggressive stance towards effective governance. Regrettably, even those who suffer the repercussions of poor governance perceive questioning the system as biased, while accepting it is seen as "objective."

We must discard the falsehood of such a brand of "objectivity" and take a firm stance against systems rooted in greed, oppression, and injustice, which are culpable for immense loss and suffering, often normalized as inherent to human nature.

Echoing Elie Wiesel's sentiments, "We must take sides." Neutrality aids the oppressor, never the oppressed. Silence emboldens the tormentor, never the tormented."

There should exist a legitimate public interest in ensuring accountability. Poor governance obstructs economic advancement, ensnares the majority of citizens in poverty, and deprives them of opportunities. Corruption's ramifications are palpable in citizens' daily lives, subjecting them to additional expenses for essential services like health, education, and transportation.

The government bears a sacred duty to ensure that revenues are utilized transparently and accountably for the effective development of public goods and services. In addition, revenues are utilized for the overall welfare of the populace.

The point we have reached as a state underscores the importance of a vibrant opposition in achieving positive outcomes.