Now it is really interesting that Nigeria as a nation probably tried to impress international observers unconsciously, forgetting that this is about our Democracy and our future. Don’t get me wrong here. The PVCs and Card Reader was an awesome combination, but would be perfected if votes were counted electronically and not manually as it was done.

Point being, the rigger does not require a PVC, talk less of an accreditation that would enable him/ her to vote. Now we all saw the rigging video in Akwa Ibom and other parts of the country.

Staged or not staged, these short video clips simply reminds us that individuals involved in rigging only requires one, two or more ballot paper booklets/ leaflets for multiple thumb printing on desired party logo.

More so, can we ignore, or better still, deny the fact that children, not in tens or hundreds, were allowed to vote in an electoral system that permits only adults to vote?

So while we are busy blaming this region for rigging in broad day light and recorded videos, or the other region for queuing thousands of kids to vote, let us remember, we are doing ourselves. A child that can lie about his age and vote will grow up and lie about something bigger and quite serious in the future. International observers will leave us to “enjoy” the fruits of our electoral labour.

When are we ever going to learn that this is beyond my region, religion and tribe? Haba Nigeria.

While you strain your throat chanting “Change” or “Transformation”, remember as you make your bed, so shall you lie on it.

@didiyargata 

VIEWS EXPRESSED ARE SOLELY AUTHOR’S…