The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • How to be a Nigerian…

    How to be a Nigerian…

    • By Prince Charles Dickson

    Sir: On an average, Nigeria is good; her people are a bunch of good bananas. Only a few rotten gives the whole bunch a bad look and that particular rotten smell. Nigeria ideally is one of the best places to live in. It is not a police state like so-called Western democracies…

    There have been reports upon reports that if properly handled would have made Nigeria number one in most things if not everything; because if, despite all the ills of our society, we are still there as the happiest and most religious in the world…then there is a problem.

    In recent times, I have watched us be reminded of the successes of Malaysia, a success that was championed and achieved simply because of purposeful leadership, leadership that had the confidence of the governed. That leadership brought about economic prosperity, industrial strength, intellectual pride and dynamism. We have discussed Singapore and for us the only thing that has poured is how our best brains and not so best have become caregivers in the UK and pouring into Canada and other places that were nowhere in the map of economic discussion only two/three decades earlier.

     It was only expected that when a nation barely commits one percent of its GDP on education, we would have a collapsed Unity School set up, a crazy university system. We all weep at the situation but no one really thinks how we can have national competitiveness when the level of investment in human capital is abysmally low.

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    A new Nigeria cannot unfold, with fast-paced infrastructural development, rapid push in human resource development, healthcare delivery, when universities and polytechnics enrol almost two million students yearly and graduate around 600,000, of which barely 5% has a chance of a job, the remaining 95% an unemployable bunch with redundant qualifications and there is no plan to put a halt to this.  We are breeding terrorists, frustrated young men, sad mothers, senior citizens that daily curse the nation because we have refused to give them their dues.

    Isn’t it intriguing and excitingly Nigerian, that this is Nigeria, the rich, poor, and everybody cries and laughs almost at the same time; the difference is the swing of the pendulum.

     How can one understand the Nigerian and want to be one, when in power he loves affluence and will do anything to stay-put?

    In religious matters, he will fake it; in business, his cheques will bounce. In the civil service, forget the noise of ‘Servicom’, your files will miss and only reappear at the right price. In Nigeria, you need to understand how a complainant can suddenly become a suspect and in the end a witness, yet still land in jail for a crime that was committed against him. 

     • Prince Charles Dickson, PhD

    <pcdbooks@gmail.com>

  • For a democracy that delivers

    For a democracy that delivers

    • By Tosin Afeniforo

    Sir: Democracy, with its promise of freedom, equality, and representation, has frequently been celebrated as a guiding light for nations aspiring toward progress and prosperity. Given that Nigeria is the big fish in the pond of African countries and holds an influential role in the continent, the journey towards democratic governance in Nigeria is a big deal, not just in their own backyard, but also for the neighbouring lands. However, the path to democratic success in Nigeria has been an uphill battle, throwing a wrench in the works and leaving the system’s ability to deliver tangible benefits to its citizens up in the air.

    The year 1999 was a significant turning point in Nigeria’s history as the country turned over a new leaf and launched itself towards a stable democratic government. Hopes of transparency, accountability, and inclusive government accompanied the idea of democracy. But for many Nigerians, the achievement of these goals still seems like a far-off fantasy more than 20 years later.

    A major thorn in the side of Nigerian democracy is the rampant issue of corruption. Despite pulling out all the stops to tackle it, corruption continues to be a thorn in the side that chips away at the effectiveness of democratic institutions, shakes public faith, and puts a damper on socio-economic progress. The poor handling of resources, feathering one’s own nest with funds, and turning a blind eye to responsibility have set the stage for a never-ending dance of poverty and inequality, leaving millions of Nigerians feeling left out and disenchanted.

    Furthermore, the Nigerian political scene is a hotbed of ethnic and religious tensions, which often steal the spotlight from the democratic process. Politicians often play both sides of the fence, stirring the pot and throwing fuel on the fire, making the divide even wider and hindering the creation of a united front. In such a dog-eat-dog world, the ideals of democracy face an uphill battle in laying a solid groundwork, as political loyalty is often swayed by tribal or religious ties rather than by merit or policy.

    Pulling strings in elections, playing mind games, and flexing muscles chip away at the credibility of elected officials and erode trust in the democratic system. Without the presence of level playing fields and fair elections, the true essence of democracy goes up in smoke, leaving behind nothing but smoke and mirrors where powerful factions pull strings for their own benefit.

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    But to dismiss democracy as unsuited to Nigeria’s circumstances in spite of these difficulties would be throwing up the towel too soon. In the face of difficult circumstances, there are rays of optimism because of the Nigerian people’s unwavering commitment and steely will to demand democratic reforms from their leaders. Civil society organizations, activists, and the media are the bee’s knees in uncovering corruption, pushing for political reforms, and encouraging civic participation. Their endeavours are hitting the nail on the head, showing how a vigilant and active citizenry can be the driving force behind positive change within a democratic system.

    If given a fair chance, Nigeria’s youthful population, eager to learn and full of potential, also holds the key to democratization and economic prosperity. In order to create a strong foundation for democracy in the future, it is imperative that young Nigerians be given a leg up via education and political engagement.

    Although the road ahead is filled with bumps in the road and hurdles to overcome, the silver lining of a thriving democracy is too crucial to turn a blind eye to. It is of utmost importance for Nigeria to face its democratic deficits head-on, address the root causes of corruption and inequality, and strengthen its institutions to make sure that democracy works for all Nigerians, not just a chosen few. Only when democracy comes into full realization can it truly deliver the goods of freedom, equality, and prosperity for the people of Nigeria.

    •Tosin Afeniforo,

     Italy.

  • Bauchi governor’s lopsided generosity

    Bauchi governor’s lopsided generosity

    SIR: It is truly baffling to witness the myopic vision and skewed priorities exhibited by Governor Bala Muhammed of Bauchi State. By allocating a staggering N2.19 billion as subsidy for the Hajj pilgrimage of 2,290 individuals, the governor has essentially chosen to turn a blind eye to the pressing needs of the state’s over eight million residents.

    One might wonder if the governor has lost sight of the bigger picture, where the welfare of approximately 8,308,800 citizens is at stake. It is disheartening to see such a substantial amount of funds being channelled towards a select few, while the majority of the population continues to suffer. It seems that the governor’s decision is not only irresponsible but also selfish and unfair, prioritizing the needs of a small minority over the collective well-being of the state.

    Frankly speaking, this very decision is nothing short of a masterclass in poor reasoning.

    One cannot help but question the logic behind this decision, especially when it comes at the expense of the majority of Bauchi’s population who are left to fend for themselves in a state that seems to have forgotten its responsibilities. It is a slap in the face of those who are struggling to make ends meet, as well as to the underprivileged children who are forced to sit on the bare floor in schools lacking basic amenities and those retirees that couldn’t get their gratuities hitherto.

    Furthermore, the recent incident of a stampede in which about 20 people lost their lives and over 40 were injured, all while fighting for a meagre sum of ₦10,000 zakat serves as a stark reminder of the dire situation in Bauchi State. It is unfathomable that the governor would prioritize the Hajj subsidy over addressing the root causes of such tragic events.

    Read Also: Man stabs brother to death in Bauchi

    The governor’s actions are not only irresponsible and selfish but also incredibly unfair to the citizens he was elected to serve. It is a stark reminder of the adage that power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. The governor’s decision to prioritize the welfare of a select few over the well-being of the entire state is a clear indication that his priorities are misaligned and his understanding of leadership is flawed.

    It is disheartening to see a leader who seems more concerned with impressing an unseen audience than addressing the pressing needs of his people. One cannot help but wonder if Governor Bala Muhammed believes that God can be impressed with such unscrupulous decisions. The truth is that God does not require such extravagant gestures; instead, He expects leaders to serve their people with compassion, empathy, and a sense of duty.

    Governor Bala Mohammed’s actions seem to suggest that he is more interested in leaving a legacy of grand gestures than one of genuine progress and development for his state. History, however, has a way of remembering leaders for their actions, and it is high time Governor Bala Muhammed takes this into consideration. The conscience of any true leader should be pricked by the plight of their people, and they should strive to leave a legacy of progress and development. If Governor Bala Muhammed wishes to be remembered fondly by the people of Bauchi State, he must re-evaluate his priorities and start addressing the issues that truly matter to the lives of his constituents.

    • Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, <belloishaq85@gmail.com>
  • Nigeria’s hidden offenders

    Nigeria’s hidden offenders

    SIR: On March 12, the red mist descended on popular Wuse Market in Abuja, when a  hastily convened mobile court which tries environmental offenders found a teenage hawker liable for a couple of environmental offences. He was duly convicted and while being taken away by men of the Nigeria Correctional Service, the familiarly Nigerian suspicion and fear of the agents of state set in to send him scampering down from the vehicle, upon which he quickly took to his heels. The prison wardens briefly gave chase before fatally shooting him to make him one more entry on the list of those killed rather recklessly by agents of state.

    The bullet fired by the correctional services official more than snuffed the life out of the hapless teenage hawker for whom life was already tough peddling his wares. It also set off a firestorm in the market, during which no less than 10 shops and eight cars were burnt down by angry youths. Over N1 billion goods was lost as the market as temporarily shut down.

    For using a sledgehammer to kill a fly, law enforcement in Abuja did not just result in an unquantifiable loss of life; at least a billion naira was also lost in money. With time, the damage done to the system will become apparent.

    Also on same day, March 12, a bus carrying about 15 passengers from Zaki Biam to Maihula in Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State was ambushed by criminals. While the driver managed to escape, the bodies of about nine of his passengers were later recovered. The abduction and consequent killing of the passengers have been chalked down to reprisals for previous clashes between Ichen and Tiv ethnic groups in the state.

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    Nigeria is becoming an open market of bodies and body parts, a market marked by the conspiracy of many criminals in the country, the complicity of those who aid them and the complacency of law enforcement. They abduct and kill as if Nigeria has stopped being a country where human life is the gift of gifts that should never be taken away save under the strictest stricture of the constitution. When people are indiscriminately or systemically killed and nothing is done, it won’t take a soothsayer to know that there will be more deaths.

    In Nigeria, those who kill and those who aid them make up Nigeria’s hidden offenders, together with those who condone them.

    The teenage hawker in Wuse Market must have come to Abuja from his village in one of Nigeria’s thirty-six states, lured by the sirens of Abuja’s fabled but fatal green pastures. Having learnt the hard way that the roads in Abuja are not paved with gold, he must have taken to hawking to avoid returning to his village, which may be under the iron fist of terrorists. This was until the mobile court came and pronounced judgment on him, a judgment that was swiftly executed in a country where the wheels of justice grind scandalously slowly.

    The law kills in Nigeria, sometimes literally. But until it does, all other acts of killing are unconstitutional, illegal, and unforgivable.

    To protect its monopoly of death, Nigeria must prey on the fears of those who dish death but not under the hand of the state. Bringing them nose to nose with that which they fear most, touching it but not exactly succumbing to it in a way that only the law can may make them rethink their crimes.

    A country that not only condones callous criminals but deigns to share its monopoly of death with them is surely complicit in their crimes.

    • Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com
  • Owan, Edo State needs Police Counter Terrorism Unit

    Owan, Edo State needs Police Counter Terrorism Unit

    Sir: As concerned citizens, particularly, as indigenes/residents of Edo State, it is disheartening that kidnappings, armed robbery, cultism, and other forms of criminal activity have eaten deep into the state and have continued to threaten the safety of lives and property.

    As a border local government with porous borders, bandits, kidnappers and other criminals fleeing from the actions of Amotekun in Ondo State have now moved into Owan West and Owan East Local Government Areas of Edo State to continue their nefarious activities.

    The abduction and kidnapping have become more indiscriminate across the two local government areas as these criminal gangs view victims as a source of income.

    If this spate of kidnappings and abductions are not nipped in the bud, it poses the potential of crippling socio-economic activities in the area.

    These criminals have set up camps in forests and carry out their heinous crimes from there. The incidents of robbery and kidnapping have been on the rise in recent times, most of the cases are either unreported or unsolved.

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    The Akure-Uzebba-Ekpoma, Afuze-Uokha-Auchi, and Sabongida-Ozalla roads are known hotspots for these crimes.  The Owan Youth Council (OYC) is convinced that proactive rather than reactive measures would go a long way in mitigating insecurity in various parts of Owan West & Owan East LGA’s.

    Despite the efforts of the community leaders, Local and Edo State government, the rate of killings, kidnappings, and armed robberies in Owan West & Owan East Local Government Area remains alarming.

    There are about 121 communities in Owan West & Owan East Local Government Area alone, and the people living in these areas are constantly living in fear due to the activities of this armed herders and other criminal elements.

    As concerned citizens, we appeal to you to take action by establishing a Counter Terrorism Unit of The Nigeria Police Force in the area. This will go a long way in strengthening security and curbing the activities of these criminal elements in Edo State entirely.

    We believe that everyone living in Owan Land and other areas of the state will be appreciative and relieved if these issues are considered and acted upon.

    • Felix O. Esezobor, <eohimaifelix@gmail.com>
  • Governor Bala: Prioritize welfare over hajj subsidies

    Governor Bala: Prioritize welfare over hajj subsidies

    • By Comrade Muhammed Ishaq

    Sir: I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent increase in the Hajj pilgrimage fare for 2024 by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). As you may be aware, this increase has led some individuals to call upon state governors, including yourself, to subsidize the cost on behalf of intending pilgrims. While I understand the significance of the Hajj for many Muslims, I firmly believe that allocating state funds to support this endeavour would be both wrong and unjust.

    Instead, I implore you to prioritize the welfare of the millions of less privileged citizens residing in Bauchi State. The dire circumstances faced by these individuals are evident in the numerous challenges they confront daily, including access to basic necessities such as food and healthcare. As a leader, your responsibility lies in ensuring that the resources available to you are allocated in a manner that benefits the greatest number of your constituents.

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    To further emphasize the urgency of this matter, consider the recent tragedy in which about 20 individuals lost their lives in a stampede while competing for a modest sum of N10,000 zakat. This heart-breaking event serves as a stark reminder of the suffering that persists within our state. By diverting funds intended for vital public services to Hajj subsidies, we risk exacerbating these hardships and neglecting the needs of those who require our assistance the most.

    It is crucial to remember that the performance of Hajj is a sacred obligation that is only binding upon those who can afford it without causing hardship to themselves or their families. By utilizing state resources to support those who can otherwise manage the cost, we not only undermine the very essence of this religious duty but also perpetuate a system that disproportionately benefits a select few at the expense of the broader community.

    In light of these considerations, I urge you to reject the notion of using Bauchi State’s resources to supplement Hajj fares. Instead, I implore you to direct your attention and the available funds towards initiatives that will alleviate the suffering of our less fortunate citizens and uplift the overall well-being of our state. By doing so, you will not only adhere to the principles of fairness and justice but also demonstrate your commitment to the welfare of all Bauchi State residents.

    •Comrade Muhammed Ishaq,

    <belloishaq85@gmail.com>

  • Shift fuel subsidies to renewable energy

    Shift fuel subsidies to renewable energy

    • By Chisom Clement John

    Sir: One of the key factors exacerbating Nigeria’s power woes is the persistent reliance on fossil fuels, and with it the issue of fuel subsidy removal. While the government may justify the measure as necessary for economic reform, the repercussions on the populace, particularly in terms of energy access, cannot be overlooked. The removal of fuel subsidies in 2024 has led to increased costs of living, further burdening the already struggling masses. With the government set to inject N1.6billion for on-grid electricity subsidize through the 11 electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs), we must not forget the over 45% of the population without electricity mostly in rural areas, and the poor electricity supply by the on-grid players who lack transparency and accountability, poor metering plans and lack a grid expansion plan – as much as we know it.

    However, amidst the gloom and discontent lies a potential solution: the shift from centralized power generation to Distributed Renewable Energy (DRE). Unlike traditional fossil fuel-based grids, DRE systems harness energy from abundant renewable sources such as sunlight, wind, and water, offering a decentralized and sustainable alternative. Yet, despite its potential to revolutionize energy access, DRE adoption remains hindered by various challenges, including high cost for renewable solutions, lack of available consumer financing for poor informal groups, inadequate incentives to transit to clean energy solutions and policy frameworks that are not implemented.

    One glaring irony is the failure of governments to reallocate subsidies from fossil fuels to incentivize DRE adoption so as to ease the suffering of the masses and bridge energy access. Instead of perpetuating dependency on finite resources with volatile prices like fossils, the governments should redirect these funds towards promoting renewable energy solutions that empower citizens and foster resilience against power disruptions.

    Imagine a scenario where the funds previously allocated to fuel subsidies are channelled into initiatives that promote DRE adoption at the grassroots level and medium and small scale businesses across Nigeria – boosting their production activities, cutting business operating cost by 40% which was previously used to fuel generators, and creating more jobs. Subsidies could be redirected to subsidize the cost of solar panels, wind turbines, or mini-hydro systems, making renewable energy technologies more accessible to households and businesses alike. Additionally, government-backed incentives such as tax breaks, grants, and low-interest loans could spur investment in DRE projects, stimulating economic growth while addressing energy poverty.

    Furthermore, investing in DRE infrastructure not only enhances energy access but also mitigates environmental degradation and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. By embracing renewable energy, nations like Nigeria can position themselves as leaders in sustainable development, harnessing their abundant natural resources to drive progress while safeguarding the planet for future generations.

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    The shift towards DRE is not merely a matter of technological advancement but a paradigm shift in governance and energy policy. Governments must prioritize the welfare of their citizens by investing in resilient, decentralized energy systems that provide reliable power and empower communities to thrive. And where the government feels its lacking resource and technical capacities to deliver reliable decentralized energy, it must explore partnership and support the work of development partners and private sector players making bold investment and delivering support to make DRE accessible to Nigerians.

    For instance, international partners like All On, is stepping forward to transform Nigeria’s energy landscape. Since inception, it has facilitated over 80,000 off-grid solar connections, revolutionizing energy access across the nation. Collaborating with 50 off-grid energy companies, they’ve enabled 8,000+ mini-grid connections, sold 45,000+ solar home systems, and empowered 2,500+ users with solar refrigerators.

    Their impact extends beyond numbers: 14 MWh of installed capacity, cutting 29,000+ MT of CO2 emissions, and generating 1,900 kWp of power across 21 mini-grid sites. Moreover, over 400,000 lives have been directly impacted, with 800 jobs created and 560 businesses powered by clean energy, fostering socio-economic growth from the grassroots.

    The success of All On’s initiatives underscores the urgency for decentralized renewable energy adoption. Redirecting subsidies towards DRE initiatives could subsidize solar panels, wind turbines, and mini-hydro systems, making renewable technologies accessible to all.

    By shifting subsidies from fossil fuels to Distributed Renewable Energy, governments not only alleviate the burden on citizens but also catalyse a green energy revolution that benefits both people and the planet. As Nigeria navigates towards a greener future, partnerships like All On exemplify the transformative power of decentralized renewable energy.

    •Chisom Clement John,

    REAN, Abuja.

  • Senegal’s new leadership and Africa’s struggle for identity

    Senegal’s new leadership and Africa’s struggle for identity

    • By John Amabolou Elekun

    Sir: Senegal, a nation with a rich cultural heritage and a history steeped in resilience, recently witnessed a significant transition of power that has left its citizens rejoicing and hopeful for a new era of progress and self-determination. At the helm of this transformation is a youthful leader, aged 44, whose tactical approach and determination have ignited a wave of optimism among the populace.

    Amidst this fervour for change, the new president has set his sights on asserting Senegal’s sovereignty by challenging the lingering influence of former colonial powers, particularly France. He advocates for the absolute removal of French government policies and impact in African countries, viewing it as a crucial step towards reclaiming Africa’s autonomy and charting its own path towards development and prosperity.

    However, while Senegal and many other African nations strive to assert their independence and cultural identity, there remains a stark contrast in the treatment of certain societal issues across the continent. One such issue is the celebration and acceptance of transgender individuals, which, in some African countries, is met with elaborate ceremonies and awards.

    This celebration of transgender individuals stands in stark contrast to traditional norms and values deeply rooted in many African societies. There is a prevailing belief that such recognition goes against the fundamental principles of humanity and detracts from the dignity and respect accorded to women, who are often seen as the cornerstone of society due to their role in childbirth and productivity.

    The celebration of transgender individuals is viewed by some as a departure from the values that underpin African cultures, raising questions about the direction in which society is heading and the erosion of traditional norms. It is seen as a taboo that challenges the very essence of humanity and threatens to undermine the fabric of African society.

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    In light of these developments, there is a growing consensus among certain quarters in Africa that there is a need to reaffirm the continent’s commitment to upholding traditional values while embracing progress and development. This includes rejecting practices that are perceived as contrary to the cultural fabric of African societies, such as the celebration of transgender individuals.

    Furthermore, there is a call for African nations to assert themselves on the world stage with honour and respect for humanity, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage and values in the face of external influences. This entails fostering a sense of pride in African identity and promoting a narrative that celebrates the richness and diversity of the continent’s cultures.

    Senegal’s recent transition of power signals a new chapter in the country’s history, marked by optimism and a renewed sense of purpose. However, as Africa continues to navigate the complexities of modernity and globalization, it must grapple with the challenge of preserving traditional values while embracing progress. The celebration of transgender individuals serves as a reminder of the need to strike a balance between honouring cultural heritage and embracing change in a rapidly evolving world.

    •John Amabolou Elekun,

     Iju-Ajuwon, Lagos.

  • JAMB’s roadblock for pharmacy technicians

    JAMB’s roadblock for pharmacy technicians

    • By Shagba Humphrey T

    Sir: For three years now, a critical roadblock has persisted in the educational advancement of Pharmacy Technicians in Nigeria. The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board’s (JAMB) decision to bar pharmacy technicians from Direct Entry Admission (DE) into degree programmes is a matter of grave concern for the pharmacy technicians and the entire pharmacy profession.

    This policy not only creates unnecessary hurdles for certified pharmacy technicians seeking to upskill but also poses a threat to the future of the pharmacy profession itself. With the JAMB Direct Entry registration deadline looming on Thursday, April 11, we urge the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) and Schools of Pharmacy Technicians Training to take immediate action.

    The Reformed Forum of Pharmacy Technicians in Nigeria (RFPTN) has been tirelessly working to expand awareness of the PCN’s Direct Entry approval among southern universities. However, JAMB’s policy blindsided us and our members. This lack of communication and coordination between stakeholders is causing undue pandemonium.

    We call upon policymakers and all relevant stakeholders to recognize the criticality of this issue. Pharmacy technicians in Nigeria already face numerous challenges, including a lack of advanced specialization opportunities compared to our counterparts in other nations. JAMB’s DE restriction further hinders our ability to progress and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector.

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    The frustration and impatience among pharmacy technicians are reaching a boiling point. The RFPTN stands as a firm advocate and demands due consideration and recognition for our profession. We urge the PCN and institutions of pharmacy technicians training to collaborate with JAMB to:

    1. Reconsider the de ban: Allow qualified pharmacy technicians with the PCN’s Direct Entry Approval to pursue degree programmes through JAMB’s DE pathway.

    2. Open communication channels: Foster better communication and collaboration between JAMB, PCN, and training institutions to ensure clear and consistent policies for pharmacy technicians.

    The future of the pharmacy technician profession in Nigeria hinges on our collective action. We cannot afford to let this crucial opportunity slip away. Let us work together to ensure a smooth and accessible educational path for all pharmacy technicians in Nigeria.

    •Shagba Humphrey T.

    shatehudesolowex88@gmail.com

  • Releasing terrorists’ list not enough

    Releasing terrorists’ list not enough

    • By Kene Obiezu

    Sir: On Monday, March 18, the Nigeria Sanctions Committee released a list of those accused of sponsoring terrorism in the country. The list which contains nine individuals and six companies has predictably set off a firestorm in a country riven apart by terrorism, but the fact that there could be more where it came from means that the days of terrorism may yet be numbered in the country.

    In 2021, the UAE was said to have handed over to the federal government a list of those sponsoring terrorism in the country. Nigerians immediately expected the names to be made public, but it was never done, as the list soon became one of the sorest points in a country where terrorism continued to do irreparable harm.

    But finally, knowledge should bring information and information, power. The traumatized victims of the Kaduna train attack in 2022 should know those who sponsored their nightmare. The children of Baptist High School Chikun, Kaduna State, who spent months in horrifying captivity should know those who purchased their tickets to such suffering. The villages of Southern Kaduna which have since lost count of their dead and missing should know those determined to annihilate them.

    The list which had gathered dust after the previous administration preferred to shield it should now give Nigeria leverage in the war against terrorism.

    Effective repair often begins from identifying the cause of the rupture. Knowing why something is broken and how it was broken aids repair and even reparation. Nigeria’s confrontation with terrorism started slowly but has since flared into an inferno.

    Now that the destroyers can be defined with some definiteness, maybe healing can start. Justice typically juts out from justification. For victims of heinous crimes, this justification means validating their pain, anguish, and distress. This kind of victim justification is impossible without proper accounting, putting names to faces and faces to names.

    The child who has lost both parents and limbs to terrorism should know at whose word and will his world was cut off. The children whose schools were razed and teachers beheaded should be able to pinpoint with piercing certainty those responsible for their broken dreams.

    Lists like this often become tiny lips of light, piercing hitherto impenetrable darkness and illuminating stories and sorrow. Nigeria is one gigantic station of stories and sorrows and to illuminate its struggle and validate its sorrows, more lists like these are needed.

    The list of those who have sabotaged the country economically is needed. Oil thieves, fuel subsidy scammers and even internet fraudsters should be included. The callous champions of Nigeria’s corruption should also have ample space to write their names in infamy.

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    There should also be a list for the saboteurs of Nigeria’s democracy. All those whose death marks appear on the corpse of democracy in the country should feature on that list. Coup plotters, corrupt members of the executive, judiciary and legislature, and of course, all those who have scuttled previous elections in the country should all have notable mentions.

    A name nullifies ambiguity, brings identity to the fore, and engenders becoming. People and things often grow into the names they bear. In other words, they are defined by their names and come to define their names. That is the power of a name.

    A name also imputes responsibility, implicates people for accountability, and unravels impunity.

    In naming those who sponsor terrorism in the country, the current administration has shown that it may just have enough to elide the execrable excesses of the previous administration. It is a good sign because government is worse when it is governed by secrets and long shadows.

    Those named may argue that naming them has eroded their constitutional rights to presumption of innocence, as no court has pronounced them guilty of any crimes. They would have had a point had terrorism not become a national nightmare that justifies any minor inconvenience experienced by anyone else smeared by it anymore smeared by it in whatever degree.

    Whatever point they would have about constitutional rights must be circumscribed by national security and by the practical aphorism that there is no smoke without fire.

     They can go to court and obtain pronouncements. A more sensible course of action would be to cooperate with the authorities.

    For Nigerians, it is important that the authorities go beyond naming the monster to cut off its head so that families and entire communities can be spared further and future agonies.

    •Kene Obiezu,

    keneobiezu@gmail.com