By John Mayaki
The verdict of the Federal High Court where our party, the All Progressives Congress, had filed a suit against the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, seeking explanation on the noted discrepancies in his academic credentials may have understandably left many disappointed and cynical.
Cynicism becomes attractive in a democratic setting when apparent facts are seemingly discarded, injustice appears legitimized, and outcomes of contests and the workings of government are adrift and inconsistent with the pronounced will of the people. But far from solving our problems, cynicism only entrenches them and ensures that the change that we seek remains elusive.
The work of democracy and building a fair and just society where honest men and people of integrity are entrusted with power in a transparent process is hard – and oftentimes suffers setbacks. Our duty and moral obligation to ourselves and the future generation is to never give up. Every defeat must fuel our resolve and increase our desire to participate in and engage the system.
It is on this note that I wish to encourage my friends, supporters, and other Edo citizens at home and abroad who have expressed concern to stay the course and remain hopeful. Contrary to the loud proclamations of those on the other side, we have not reached the end of the road and our fight to rescue our state from the throes of corruption and maladministration continues.
For though the arc of the moral universe is long, it bends toward justice.
I thank you all for your support, courage, and numerous acts of sacrifice. This is not the time to mourn a loss of any kind or point accusing fingers at anyone; rather, we must pick ourselves up quickly and continue on the path that we have chosen in service to our state and our fellow citizens.
The greater the obstacle, the more the glory in overcoming it.
Thank you and may God bless you all.