Opata Defends Tinubu’s ‘All Is Fair in Politics’ Remark

Nigerian scholar Prof. Damian Opata has voiced support for President Bola Tinubu's assertion that "all is fair in politics," arguing that the phrase is not unique to Nigeria and finds roots in historical and philosophical discourse. Opata, the National Chairman of the South East Movement for Tinubu 2027 and a Professor of African Literature, traced the expression's origins to John Lyly's "Euphues: The Anatomy of Wit."

According to a press statement, Opata affirmed that he has no objection to the memorandum presented by the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, which included demands for free and fair elections, strengthened security, improved governance, and the return of schools to their original proprietors. He noted that Tinubu's response emphasized advancements in education and security sectors, explained that school ownership issues lie with state governors, and reaffirmed the constitutional guarantee of freedom of religion.

Opata defended Tinubu's assertion as a testament to his "brutal courage in speaking and acting on truth and reality." However, he acknowledged that critics have valid concerns about the potential implications of such a statement, given the President's role as a symbol of the nation's ethical standards. The scholar further contended that the bishops' focus should not solely be on Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress but should extend to all political parties sharing responsibility for ensuring free and fair elections.

Opata encouraged restraint from the media and public, urging attention to the substantive issues rather than peripheral matters. He called on the ruling party, opposition parties, and Nigerians to avoid behavior that embodies either "the end justifies the means" or "all is fair in politics" as the country approaches the 2027 general election, expressing optimism that such a stance would contribute to the integrity of future polls.