History is a relentless teacher, often reminding us of the decisions we made in the past. It stands as a testament to our actions, both virtuous and malevolent. In the world of politics, where alliances can shift like sand dunes, the consequences of supporting evil can be profound. This article delves into the cautionary tales of two prominent figures, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo and Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, whose past decisions have come back to haunt them, illustrating why we should be vigilant about our choices in support of unethical actions.
The Osinbajo Dilemma
In 1999, the renowned legal luminary, Late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, took former Lagos State Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu to court to challenge allegations regarding Tinubu’s education. Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), was contracted to defend these allegations. The case was eventually dismissed on “technicalities,” a term that has become all too familiar in legal proceedings.
Fast forward to the present day, and history has a way of catching up with individuals. Osinbajo, once a respected legal figure, found himself facing the consequences of defending questionable actions in his past. Many Nigerians would have welcomed him as the successor to President Buhari, but the very evil he defended years ago became a significant obstacle to his destiny. His silence on the matter is telling; he couldn’t challenge what he once defended, even when given the opportunity.
The Amaechi Paradox
In 2014, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi was considered Bola Tinubu’s “wonder boy,” using the oil funds of Rivers State to support the candidacy of Muhammadu Buhari, the chosen candidate of a powerful political figure. Amaechi believed he had secured Sai Baba’s support for the APC primaries, only to find himself outmanoeuvred as a pawn in a larger political game.
Amaechi’s story is a stark reminder of how supporting questionable agendas can lead to unexpected consequences. Once hailed as the “Lion of Niger Delta,” he has since descended to the “Lamb of Ubima.” He has lost control of the APC in Rivers State, as many of his political loyalists jumped ship. Amaechi now finds himself returning to school, not for formal education, but to learn from history and its unforgiving lessons.
The Lesson of History
These stories underscore a fundamental truth: we must exercise great caution in the choices we make, especially when they involve supporting actions or individuals with questionable ethics. History does not discriminate; it treats all individuals equally in its relentless narrative. It is neither swayed by eloquence nor impressed by rhetoric. It merely requires time to respond to our actions.
Whether we support good or evil, history will ultimately render its verdict. Those who choose the path of virtue may find vindication in the long run, while those who embrace malevolence may face the bitter consequences of their decisions. As individuals and as a society, we should remember that history is not our friend or our foe; it is our unfaltering mirror reflecting our past actions and their enduring impact.
In conclusion, let these cautionary tales serve as a reminder of the importance of ethical decision-making and the need to consider the consequences of our choices carefully. History, as an impartial judge, stands ready to record our deeds, and it is up to us to ensure that the legacy we leave behind is one of virtue, not regret.
