There was an interesting Twitter conversation between two well-known politicians.
The Nation reported that at the heart of this online dispute were Doyin Okupe, the former director-general of the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Organization, and Dele Momodu, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Given their respective prominence in Nigerian politics, both of their conversations have garnered notice.
Dele Momodu opened the conversation by considering his 42-year history as an opposition politician. He said that he regretted supporting former President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2015 elections, saying that he now regretted the choice.
Momodu made this open admission, and Okupe responded quickly, having a critical yet accommodating conversation. In response, Okupe counseled Momodu to continue criticizing with a degree of maturity, reason, and professionalism.
He emphasized the need for civility among political practitioners and the need to prevent personal assaults from being made during political debates and discussions.
It seemed like Okupe was trying to move the topic in the direction of a more civil and productive discussion. In addition, Okupe personally acknowledged Momodu’s prior financial assistance in his response.
He conveyed his appreciation to Momodu for his kindness in pardoning a $20,000 debt that Okupe acknowledged he had not been able to pay back.
Okupe said, “We are all practitioners, players, and known actors in this amphitheater; there is no need to go personal. Let’s keep criticisms rational, mature, and professional.”
“Finally, Dele, let me publicly acknowledge and appreciate your generosity in granting me that much-appreciated debt forgiveness of $20k.”
“I could not afford it! But truly then, I never imagined we could lose that election. However, man proposes, but God Almighty ONLY disposes. My dear Aburo, whom I love and adore so much, I wish you well. God bless”
