The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Hunting the vigilantes?

    Hunting the vigilantes?

    By: Ike Willie-Nwobu

    Sir: The brutal killing of nine members of the ‘Yan Ba Beli’ vigilante group in Bauchi points to the perilous nature of their job. Vigilantes may not have the aura or glamour of security personnel. They lack their support and funding. Yet, they are always brutally efficient, hands-on, and quick to the task.

    Nigeria’s mighty struggle to rein in insecurity has come at a staggering cost. Gallant men and women in its security forces have often met their painful end at the hands of criminals and miscreants. 

    The memory of how about 20 soldiers were killed by criminals in Niger State is still fresh for many Nigerians.

    Insecurity in Nigeria has been geographical. Its concentration in the rural areas has shattered their serenity and compounded their poverty and vulnerability. Where life used to be peaceful and quiet even if poor, it is now full of pain and uncertainty as a result of insecurity.

    As violence has mounted, Nigeria has had its hands full.

    The critical work they do is highlighted by what could happen if they are absent.

    In most parts, they are localized and always available. They take away the long response time to security emergencies in Nigeria’s ponderous ecosystem of protocols and sheer inefficiency.

    Vigilantes also provide some measure of employment for youths who would otherwise be left idle with all the harrowing possibilities.

    Nigeria’s security situation deserves to be studied. The lightning speed with which a country which used to dwell in relative safety made the descent into insecurity deserves to be investigated.

    There is hardly a day that goes by in Nigeria  without one story or the other about a terrorist attack in one place or the other.

     Children have been abducted. Women  and  girls have been taken too. Men have been slaughtered. Entire villages have been sacked and razed.

     Rural farmers have been especially terrorized, as much as their farms. They have sown, but often failed to reap. In their place, others have reaped.

    With this turn of events has come grueling food insecurity and grinding poverty to go with it.Surely, a country of hungry people is as angry as they come.

    Read Also: Kaduna recruits 7,000 vigilantes to tackle banditry

    To say that Nigeria’s security agents are underfunded is to put it mildly. Their lack of professionalism is explained by their poor training.

    As insecurity has mounted, they have also had to relearn the art of the body count. Indeed, they have lost count.

    Before insecurity became such an existential issue in Nigeria, the country was under secured. A large, populous country policed by so few policemen was always going to struggle.

    As many communities have fallen victims to rampaging criminal elements, Nigeria’s security have faced severe obstacles as they have struggled to string a response together.

    It is where vigilantes have always stepped in. Because they know the terrain and are always available, they have proven their ability to secure vulnerable communities.

    They must be supported and protected in the very crucial work they do.

    It is about legislation first. Vigilantes in Nigeria must see themselves to be backed by statute, so they can work well.

    There is a tendency for the so-called proper security agencies to thumb their noses at them. Proper legislation would fix that.

    Then there is the need for funding. Adequate funding at that. Since vigilante groups around the country have shown themselves to be extremely capable and available at the grassroots where insecurity is rife, it makes incredible sense to empower them to fight insecurity.

    There are legitimate concerns, of course, about how some of these vigilante groups can become too powerful overnight, becoming at once lawless and reckless. But proper legislation and adequate funding can fix that.

    The Nigerian experience with insecurity has been a truly sobering one. So much has been sacrificed on the altar of insecurity. So many things have been thrown at it, and somehow they have failed.

    At great personal risk, vigilantes offer a viable and sustainable option. Nigeria must know how to harness this resource properly.

    • Ike Willie-Nwobu, Ikewilly9@gmail.com
  • Israel’s offensive on Gaza

    Israel’s offensive on Gaza

    Sir: It is no longer news that Israel has been launching air strikes against Hamas who they blame for firing hundreds of rockets resulting in the killing of their soldiers and hundreds of their citizens. It accused Hamas for crossing its border, killing and kidnapping its citizens on October 7.

    The war has so far claimed thousands of innocent lives from both sides. No matter what triggered the renewed hostilities leading to humanitarian catastrophe, Israel should be blamed. It has been pursuing expansionist agenda in West Bank, Gaza and many villages, ignoring UN resolutions barring it from further occupation.

    In the last 16 years, Palestinians in Gaza have been living in horror and bondage. Israeli blockade of Gaza has made lives unbearable to the pauperized Palestinians. Attempts in 1948 to provide two-states solution did not materialize. The effort has not yielded the expected or fruitful result as Israel has refused or neglected to commit to the agreement. Instead, what the world continues to witness is Israel’s illegal occupation and killing of unarmed Palestine women and children on daily basis. 

    The economically strangulated Palestinians have had to resort to guerrilla fighting in order to free themselves from the shackles of Israeli domination and illegal occupation.

    While helpless Palestinians are being subjected to all manner of hardship by its oppressor, (Israel), the Western powers, US, UK, France etc. looked the other way. The Palestinians are only allowed to live in squalor in a land that belongs to them.

    In Ukraine, armed rebels are considered freedom fighters while group such as Hamas, fighting for their rights are being labelled as terrorists. This is hypocrisy. The war between Israel and Palestine will not end so long as Israel continues its land encroachment and illegal building of settlements for its people. The US president, Joe Biden’s visit to Israel neither helped the call for immediate cessation of fire nor doused tension in the war-torn Gaza. President Biden’s message of sending more weapons to fight Hamas is unfortunate and will aggravate tension in the Middle East countries. 

    Read Also: Iran warns Israel, US over escalation of Gaza war

    One had expected that Biden would prevail on Israel to stop air strikes, stop the human rights violations, and get the Israelis to desist from attacking and killing of innocent women and children in Gaza and in other Palestinian territories. One had wished that President Biden’s visit would have provided an avenue for lasting solution on the Israel/Palestinian war, including the need for UN to summon an emergency meeting aimed at resolving the century-long two-state solution.

    Rather, President Biden only met with Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu and they discussed on how United States of America (USA) and its allies could help the country. President Biden did not extend such visit to Gaza to see how children and women are being massacred by Israel’s aerial bombardment. With the death toll said to be more than five thousand in Gaza and Israel’s decision to cut off electricity, water and aids, Palestinians are being mercilessly punished or annihilated by Israel while the world leaders’ watch.

    While many countries continue to condemn the war, civilian casualties continue to increase every passing day. There is urgent need for both the warring parties to drop their arsenal and embrace peace. The war in Gaza can only be resolved through two-state solution as mooted by United Nations and other conflict resolution experts.

    • Ibrahim Mustapha, Pambegua, Kaduna State.
  • Lagos and land speculators

    Lagos and land speculators

    SIR: Land as a major factor of production plays a big role in the micro and macroeconomic trajectories of a country and its sub-nationals. Lagos’ administration of the three factors of production namely land, labour and capital have been in asymmetric scales of attention over the years. Whilst the state continues to lead in remuneration of its workforce comparative to other states in the federation, signifying her commitment to labour as an important factor of production, the same cannot be said of the state’s commitment to handling of its land administration.

    The productive use of land and its expansive value chain has become the weakest link in the developmental agenda of Lagos State. It borders on oxymoron for Lagos to lead the pack of states contributing to the burgeoning national debt stock with little or no financial reinvention towards defraying the behemoth.

    Lagos ought to have surpassed the stage of self-sustainability in infrastructure financing and began to offer fiscal buffer to other states of the federation if land tenure system is monitored like labour and capital.

    With particular reference to capital, the constitutional requirement to prepare, defend, pass and appropriate annual budgets is an indication of the importance the federating units including Lagos attach to capital as a factor of production.

    It is high time Lagos began to adjust the relationship among the three factors of production in order to run optimum productive ecosystem and vacate the clog in the wheel of economic development.

    Lagos State would record a quantum leap in its growth index across all sectors by freeing up land holdings and deploying them to productive use.

    Read Also: Iran warns Israel, US over escalation of Gaza war

    A decluttered land administration that guarantees expeditious processing of land titles and ensuring allocated plots are developed within a specified timeframe is sure to discourage land speculation and rejuvenate the built environment.

    When leasehold and freehold titles are held in perpetuity without any consequence for not developing, it leaves the city in the lowest rung of liveability index as Lagos has consistently been rated among other cities of the world.

    At least 20% of the plots in Lagos are presently not put to any productive use and can be listed for revocation in accordance with extant laws, such can be subject to reallocation or repurchase in overall public interest.

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, recently rejected the request by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) that its revoked plot of land be reversed. Wike told the just confirmed Comptroller-General of the NCS, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who paid him a courtesy call in Abuja, that the NCS could only be given an opportunity to buy back the plot at its current price.

    This denouement if adopted by Lagos State can resuscitate the waning contribution of the real sector to the state’s economy and escalate the multiplayer effects of such on the employment and housing markets.

    • Bukola Ajisola bukymany@yahoo.com
  • Solutions to the high cost of living

    Solutions to the high cost of living

    By Maryam Kamilu

    Sir: Rising living expenses continue to burden households nationwide. The escalating cost of living poses significant challenges, making it essential for the government to take proactive measures to alleviate this burden. By implementing a range of strategies, the government can offer respite and pave the way for a better quality of life. The government can adopt three critical solutions to tackle the problem.

    Access to affordable housing is a pressing concern affecting many citizens. The government should launch initiatives aimed at increasing the supply of affordable homes. This could involve allocating land for the construction of subsidized housing, incentivizing private developers to include affordable units in their projects or offering financial assistance to low-income families. By investing in affordable housing, the government can reduce the burden of high rental costs and provide families with more disposable income to meet other essential needs.

    Energy costs constitute a significant portion of household budgets, particularly for lower-income individuals and families. The government can address this issue by encouraging energy efficiency measures in residential and commercial sectors. Offering incentives for the installation of solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient appliances could help reduce electricity bills. Moreover, promoting public transportation by implementing additional bus routes, expanding rail networks, and subsidizing fares would decrease individual reliance on private vehicles, thus mitigating the impact of rising fuel prices.

    Read Also; Report claiming 94% contested posts awaits tribunal incorrect – INEC

    Enhancing educational opportunities and skill development is crucial to empower individuals to adapt to economic changes. The government should prioritize investment in the education sector, ensuring quality education is accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic backgrounds. This could involve creating scholarships, grants, or work-study programs to alleviate the burden of tuition fees.

    Additionally, fostering partnerships between educational institutions and industries would help align the curriculum with market demands, equipping students with practical skills that increase employability and earning potential.

    The high cost of living has become a pressing issue requiring immediate attention.

    The above solutions would foster a more equitable society where individuals have access to affordable homes, reduced energy costs, and enhanced opportunities for a prosperous future. By taking decisive action, the government can create a better tomorrow for all and ensure that the high cost of living no longer poses a persistent challenge for our citizens.

    • Maryam Kamilu, Borno State University, Maiduguri.

  • Gaza’s innocent victims

    Gaza’s innocent victims

    By Kene Obiezu

    Sir: In Gaza, Palestine, war continues to rage between Israel and Hamas with catastrophic consequences for children and conscience.

    On October 7, Hamas militants broke into Israel from its southern frontier, slaughtering hundreds and abducting hundreds more. At the end of the operation, more than 1400 Israelis lay dead with about 200 abducted and taken into Gaza by the militants.

    The attack which has generated an outpouring of support and sympathy the world over has provoked Israel into action. It was in furtherance of an age-old conflict between Israel and Palestine.

    It has also provoked Israel into responding with a bombardment of Gaza which many fear is only preparatory to a ground invasion. Israel has asked Palestinians living in the south of the country to move to the north as it prepares to strike. That is about 1.1 million people.

    Following the attacks, many countries have harshly condemned Hamas for the killing of innocent people as it should be. But it must be said that what has happened in Gaza for many years, well before this latest escalation, is the death of innocence.

    Read Also; Kano special constabulary, not police officers, Arase clarifies

    For years, as the so-called two-state solution has failed to take hold, conflict and confrontation have become increasingly attractive but savagely costly options.

    The cost can never really be quantified, but the 724 children killed so far in the latest escalation gives a glimpse of just how much has been lost. Killing women and children may send a message of crushing might. But the terrible injustice would not be forgotten or forgiven in a hurry

    Israel is striking Gaza hard. Hamas, the Palestinian Resistance Movement, is its target. But it is raining bombs on the entire strip, its message heavily punctuated by vengeance and powered by deterrence.

    The October 7, Hamas attacked Israel. The attack has rightly been described as a pogrom. Children beheaded. Party goers mowed down. Octogenarians kidnapped.

     Israel, a country where paranoia is official, was caught off guard, its sophisticated security apparatus rendered impotent by rebel fury.  In the aftermath of the attack, Israel has vowed to avenge the deaths; to deter further and future attacks.

    It has continued to pound the Gaza Strip, home to some 2.3 million Palestinians, huddled together by an undying sense of justice.

    The humanitarian toll has mounted. With hundreds killed, thousands injured or displaced, a humanitarian catastrophe is looming.

     Fuel, food, and water have been caught off as Gazans prepare for the might of an enraged nation.

    As these things have happened, the international community has recognized Israel’s right to defend itself, which is itself an ominous sight.

    Yet, there is wide recognition that if Israel is left to feed its thirst for vengeance in the region, women and children will disproportionately suffer.

    On Monday,  October 17, , the Al Ahli hospital in Gaza was bombed. About 500 people were said to have died. Israel and Hamas have expectedly traded blame over the attack.

    What is unfolding in the war is as expected. That women and children would become pawns in a conflict they know very little about was clear. There is no gainsaying that a decades-long conflict has cost women, but especially children, disproportionately. It begs the question of the essence of war. If innocence and innocents are the greatest casualties of war, why war, then?  Why this one? Why Russia’s war in Ukraine? To what end is the terrible suffering of innocent people?

     There is really no alternative to peace. That is why people should strive to live in peace everywhere. Every country should also speak the language of peace. Since women and children are the biggest casualties of conflict.

    Israel has every right to defend itself. But that right must not be used wrongly. It should target Hamas and no more. Every precaution must be taken to spare women and children.  The most vulnerable must not be made victims. The most insidious thing about war is that it does not discriminate. It claims the guilty as well as the innocent. The urgency of peace must be emphasized to the warring parties. There is no other way.

     With every child killed, anguish mounts. Anguish at the toll of war. But also at the terrible failure of diplomacy to distil an age-long dispute between Israel and Palestine.

    A lasting solution must be found. Two cannot walk together unless they agree. Never has a failure to agree been more ruinous. Never has it been this murderous.

    • Kene Obiezu, keneobiezu@gmail.com

  • While praying, we need to roll up our sleeves

    While praying, we need to roll up our sleeves

    By Abachi Ungbo

    Sir: Nigeria was ranked the second most prayerful country in the world in a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Centre, a non-partisan America think-tank. It did occupy the top position in 2019 but this time, it was leapfrogged by Afghanistan.

    Revealingly, while less developed countries occupied prime positions, their rich cousins languished at the lowest rung of the ladder. To underscore our reputation as a prayerful nation, a young Nigerian pastor is known to have set the internet abuzz with his effervescent online prayer programme-which assumed the biggest prayer programme in Africa if not in the world.

    There’s miracle in prayer. However, mouthing prayer as a panacea to the debilitating national malaise will drive the nation into a cul-de-sac.

    So, imagine if prayer was the sole elixir, Nigeria would have been an economic powerhouse, enjoying all the trappings of development and economic prosperity. Responsive and responsible leaders would have abounded. Chronic poverty and corruption would have melted away. Infrastructures would all have been top notch. Our country would have become a choice destination for many people in the world. The laughable imputation of sin for the outbreak of meningitis (diseases) by a state governor would have been unheard-of. Recall that a governor who should know better once made the shameful allusion.

    Read Also; Report claiming 94% contested posts awaits tribunal incorrect – INEC

    Prayer is an indispensable instrument of worship and also a shield. And undoubtedly, it has its place. Prayer shouldn’t supplant work. Instead, it should be seen as “the grease in the lock.” And, it should be emphasized that faith without work is dead. Clearly, there are no substitute for hard work, patriotism and justice in arriving at the point of development.

    The wisdom, knowledge, talent and resources that God has bestowed upon the country must judiciously be applied. Recall the parable of the talents- it clearly illustrated the need to put gifts/resources to good use- it also translates into employing the right strategies in investing resources.

    The ranking demonstrably reflected the depth of religion in our society. Religion should be seen as a force for social change. Like a knife, it depends on how it’s being applied.

    Max Weber- the German philosopher, in his work  Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism (1904-05) imputed the emergence of capitalism to religion- meaning religion birthed the modern capitalist system which he ascribed to the protestant teachings notably Calvinism- the adherents were exhorted to put forth strong work ethics, unleash the spirit of entrepreneurship, invest become thrifty and plough back savings into their businesses with government support and availability of capital providing a robust crutch.

    The values were undergirded by individual freedom that it espoused. In fact, work was regarded as a form of giving glory to God and means of finding a place among the ‘elect.’

    The country hasn’t recorded the protestant ethic and capitalist spirit in the scale that development and economic prosperity will thrive. The missing link which is not limited to the absence of hard work which has been eroded by corruption; thrift which has been knocked off by wild and unconscionable spending without thought for saving and investment and vitiated condition for growth of businesses and production. Essentially, pragmatic approach and policies remain wishy-washy.

    The protestant values have proven to work outside the realm of the ‘religious.’ The values work for those diligent enough to apply them. China, for instance which reside in the prayerless bracket places religion at the back seat but it simply drove itself into economic prosperity. It kept working with the single-minded purpose of attaining glory. Its development models are sought after by the ‘prayerful.’ It remains the convenient creditor for development purpose to not a few. Chinese goods and services are ubiquitous.

    In fact, in the quest for accelerated development they flirted with capitalism which spurred private businesses and unprecedented millionaires which explained their zeal and strong work ethics.

    While we pray, we must roll our sleeves in being discipline in building structures that underpins market economy, robust political governance framework, requisite infrastructures and also institute prudent fiscal management.

    • Abachi Ungbo, abachi007@yahoo.com

  • Fed Govt.’s planned suit against the United Nations

    Fed Govt.’s planned suit against the United Nations

    SIR: Tuesday, October 17, it was widely reported in the media that Ms. Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, Minister of Women Affairs, while on an AIT interview , in an unexpected, haphazard manner gave the United Nations (UN) a one-month ultimatum from October 16, to November 15, to render published account on all the monies received in the name of Nigeria from donors. The minister promised to proceed to file a suit on November 16, against the UN if the accounts are not rendered. But can an international organisation like the UN be dealt with in such a cavalier manner?

    Asking for accountability and transparency is very proper. The spirit of seeking answers to lighten up grey areas that may be indicative of corruption is a great idea. Experience shows that some UN officials are corrupt and some have accordingly been jailed. However, there are laid down arrangements for such requests by a sovereign nation. Not to follow laid down procedure and embarking on media grandstanding can only portray Nigeria in bad light. Nigeria is telling the world that it lacks the requisite leadership and structures for appropriate operation in the community of nations.

    The United Nations system’s counterpart in Nigeria is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Even, if the Minister of Foreign Affairs, after exhaustive dialogue within his Department of International Organisations has decided on the need to request for transparency from the UN, it is expected that he would take the case to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) before articulating, if at all, such a weighty position at a media show.

    Read Also: What U.S.’ll use United Nations Security Council presidency for, by envoy

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed the UN General Assembly last month and met with the UN Secretary-General. He was not reported to have indicated that Nigeria was experiencing lack of accountability and transparency with the UN entities working in Nigeria. So, it is a shock that a minister is so amateurish in diplomatic relations. Our inadequacies from lacking the appropriate arrangements for the necessary training and socialisation of new entrants into office is being shown to the world.

    In addition, one expects that the minister would have been apprised of the importance of diplomatic and functional immunities that the UN and its officials enjoy. In which court is our Minister of Women Affairs intending to embark on her frolic? What would be the charges? What is the expected outcome of such a litigation process? Would a more organized strategic follow through reporting of officials through diplomatic channels against a media-inspired, arrogant, poorly thought-out litigation choice, not have yielded a much better outcome?

    President Tinubu needs to have his ministers coordinated and appropriately socialised into their respective duties. The UN must readily support anti-corruption, including allegations against its own staff members when evidences are adduced through appropriate mechanisms.

    The Minister of Women Affairs will do well to address corruption in her ministry by collaborating with the ongoing probe, by at least one of Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies. Charity is better if it begins at home. She needs to be more procedural and take advantage of available expertise in the government she is a part of. She could also make a big difference by embarking on ways to empower women and thereby reduce national poverty.

    • Prof. Babafemi A. Badejo, Chrisland University, Abeokuta.
  • Decriminalizing suicide in Nigeria

    Decriminalizing suicide in Nigeria

    By: Samuel Jekeli

    SIR: Suicide is a global public health concern with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and communities. In Nigeria, like many other countries, suicide is still considered a crime under the law. This archaic legal perspective not only perpetuates the stigma surrounding mental health but also hampers efforts to prevent and address suicide effectively.

    Suicide is a tragic manifestation of mental and emotional suffering. In Nigeria where traditional values and cultural norms play a significant role in shaping society, mental health issues often go unaddressed. Stigma, shame, and discrimination deter individuals from seeking help, even when they are at their most vulnerable. The criminalization of suicide further exacerbates the problem, driving those in need further into the shadows.

    Nigeria’s Criminal Code which dates back to colonial times, expressly labels suicide as a criminal offense, punishable by imprisonment. This legal stance reflects an outdated understanding of suicide, one that ignores the complexities of mental health and the desperation felt by those who contemplate it. Instead of offering help and support, the law imposes punitive measures on those who are already suffering.

    The primary reason to decriminalize suicide in Nigeria is rooted in a humanitarian perspective. When individuals are at their lowest points, struggling with mental health issues, they need understanding, compassion, and access to professional help, not the threat of incarceration. Decriminalization is a vital step towards reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and encouraging people to seek the assistance they need.

    By decriminalizing suicide, society acknowledges that these individuals are not criminals but victims of their own suffering. This shift in perspective can help remove the barriers preventing those in distress from reaching out for support. It paves the way for a more compassionate response to mental health crises, which is a fundamental aspect of building a healthier, more empathetic society.

    Read Also: UNILORIN female student commits suicide over alleged debt

    In Nigeria, as in many other societies, mental health issues are often stigmatized and misunderstood. By decriminalizing suicide, we can initiate a broader conversation about mental health, reducing the harmful stigmatization that surrounds it. This, in turn, can encourage people to be more open about their struggles and seek the help they need without fear of judgment or legal consequences.

    Decriminalization allows for a shift in societal attitudes, emphasizing that mental health problems are real illnesses that deserve proper treatment and support, just like any physical ailment. It sends the message that seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but an act of courage. In doing so, we create an environment where individuals are more likely to reach out for assistance and where families and communities can provide the necessary support.

    While there are compelling reasons to decriminalize suicide in Nigeria, there are also challenges and concerns that must be addressed. Some individuals worry that decriminalization might encourage suicide. However, there is little evidence to support this claim. In fact, decriminalization is more likely to encourage those in distress to seek help rather than resort to suicide.

    Additionally, decriminalization does not mean condoning or promoting suicide. Rather, it acknowledges the complexities of mental health and provides a more compassionate framework for addressing the issue. Preventing suicide remains a crucial goal, but the focus should shift from punishment to support, awareness, and prevention.

    Decriminalizing suicide in Nigeria is an urgent need in the journey toward fostering a more compassionate and understanding society. Criminalization perpetuates stigma, fear, and isolation for individuals struggling with mental health issues, hindering their ability to seek help and support. By shifting our perspective on suicide, we can build a society that emphasizes compassion, support, and the value of mental health.

    This change in approach is essential for improving the well-being of Nigerians and ensuring their human rights are respected. It’s time for Nigeria to recognize that decriminalizing suicide is not just a matter of law but a fundamental matter of humanity.

    • Samuel Jekeli, Centre for Social Justice, Abuja.
  • Cleaning Nigeria’s Augean stable

    Cleaning Nigeria’s Augean stable

    • By: Ted Isaiah Omobude

    SIR: The Nigerian political system of today needs a quick surgery for the system to begin to work for the populace. Nigerians are yearning for a system where those elected to public offices would begin to see it as a clarion call to serve the people.

    A foreign observer posited recently that Nigerians pray in church and mosque for their leaders instead of holding them accountable to show how judiciously they have spent the money given to them to work for the people. Nigeria’s political officeholders see the funds given to them to work for the betterment of the people as the national cake that should squandered, rather than be used to revamp the lives of the people. Generally, Nigerians have taken to building worshipping houses, instead of factories or businesses. On the surface, this appears like a good move but in reality, they are only religious; they do not have the fear of God.

    It is imperative to publish periodically the funds released to political office holders and what such funds are meant so that at the end of the tenure of such politicians, the people can hold them to account, if they discover that they have been short-changed. That is why political officeholders overseas are very prudent and accountable because they know the people will always come for their necks.

    Read Also: ‘China Commodities Expo to raise trade with Nigeria’

    In Nigeria, politicians do have such fears. So, people who go into office with rags and filthy clothes come out stupendously rich at the detriment of the masses – from councillorship to the presidency.

    In the northern part of the country so many years ago, politicians worked for the interest of the masses. Nowadays in the north, the story has changed.  Our decrepit road projects everywhere now in Nigeria are an indication that there are no more leaders who are concerned about the plight and welfare of citizens.

    One of the contributory factors to the dearth of responsible leadership in the country is the initiation of young persons into cultism and other social vices. People are recruited into groups with ignoble aims because of the quest for money and power. Rather, than satisfying the masses whose massive votes brought them to office, they prefer to satisfy a few among themselves who are neck-deep into cultism and all sorts of vices.

    Let every slumbering leader wake up to their responsibility to society.

    The masses should also have a role to play in cleaning up the mess in the country; by cooperating with their leaders. Besides, we need to be the change we want in others. The potential to be great as a nation is there, but we just have to be resolute and with God on our side, the lofty aspirations of our founding fathers are realisable.

    • Ted Isaiah Omobude, Jos, Plateau State.
  • PBAT: Same Joe, minor differences?

    PBAT: Same Joe, minor differences?

    By Ibrahim Yahaya

    SIR: In all fairness, this administration is very young and it is only normal to cut it some slack. An infant should not be expected to start running without first trying to sit, crawl and walk. However, it is this logic of giving this administration the benefit of its infancy that is this writer’s biggest fear.

    Yes, it is my biggest fear because I have plied this path before. I threw my support behind virtually all the policies and programmes of the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, as every progressive should. I was a fierce advocate of the change mantra, and believed a whole lot would be achieved in his eight years. That was how the administration breezed out without fulfilling a quarter of its potential. 

    And here we are, again, with many beautiful policies and programmes, filled with tempting promises of a better Nigeria. In defiance to Ali Nuhu though, in his catchy Moniepoint commercial, I am afraid of not “judging Joe!”

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    Indeed, Mr. President has fielded some of the finest brains to help actualize the #Renewed Hope mantra. He has pencilled developmental policies and have brought some into enforcement – the most notable being the removal of fuel subsidy. The reality is that, although it appears to be the best decision in the long term, it has brought untold hardship without end in sight in the interim. It would have made more sense that a workable plan had been implemented before it was removed so that those of us living from hand to mouth will not have to pay through the nose for less. Nigerians don’t have to die for structures to be erected as they will not be occupied by ghosts. Perhaps it would be best to return to the old ways albeit temporarily until we have a permanent solution. 

    Nigerians are resilient, patient and understanding, but not without limits. It is beyond unfair to ask Nigerians to be patient and trust the process while the elites get an upgrade on their already expensive cheques. People, myself included, can ill afford three square meals a day, while those in the upper echelon get to milk from the reportedly drained pockets. Barely a few months ago, we soldiered on determined to install a proven and competent leader in you, Mr. President. God forbid that we will seek a return to Egypt!

    Mr. President, I believe you will make hay while the sun shines by listening to the echoes of the suffering masses. The former administration excelled in the reputation of paying deaf ears to issues. You have the stage to prove beyond reasonable doubt that, indeed, you are not even “Joe!”

    • Ibrahim Yahaya, Abuja.