IT is customary for writers and commentators to analyze the inaugural speeches of their political leaders as soon as they are delivered. The ritual over, only a few care to monitor governance to determine their conformity to what have been promised in these “wonderful speeches.” This has become a common feature in Nigeria, where the speeches of many leaders are more of platitudes than objective reality.

I would be the last person to use the platform of divinity to score political points but there is no denying the fact that Governor Godwin Obaseki has built up enormous goodwill in the short space of time that he has been at the helm of affairs in the governance of Edo State as the sitting governor.

Democracy in Nigeria is a precious gift to every Nigerian. That it has survived uninterrupted for over 17 years, since its return in 1999 is a big plus to the active players of the game and every other Nigerian. It is more a plus and applause to the Nigerian military under the current leadership for their absolute subordination to civil authority and faith in democracy.

When I responded to the All Progressive Congress’ National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi’s, attack on the record of the People Democratic Party administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan and challenged his credibility, some members of the public may have felt that I was just playing politics.

MUCH as they both labour to put up gestures suggesting cordiality, truth is there is no love lost between them. And interestingly, the one thing that came between them is corruption, which is also supposed to be the only thing that should see them basking in a harmonious relationship in this dispensation. What a paradox!