Broadcasters
Many people have asked why I wrote those words. Let me explain clearly:
The shame of a nation refers to the daily massacre of innocent Nigerians across different parts of this country, and the frightening indifference shown toward it by those who occupy positions of leadership. Lives are being lost every day, communities are being destroyed, families are being wiped out, yet the urgency that such tragedies demand is missing from those entrusted with power.
Instead of confronting these realities with courage and responsibility, many leaders appear more concerned with protecting themselves and securing the positions they occupy.
The shame of a nation is when governors and political leaders begin to decamp en masse to the ruling party. While it may be their constitutional right to do so, one must ask: why now? Is it conviction, or is it fear?
The shame of a nation is when leaders who swore an oath before God and man to defend and protect the people now appear more afraid of a fellow human being than the Creator they pledged that oath to. It reflects the steady erosion of courage, decency, and moral backbone among those who should stand firm in defense of justice and truth.
It is about how our country is gradually sliding toward a single-party political environment, not because the people freely chose it, but because fear and intimidation are shaping the decisions of those in authority.
The shame of a nation is the pain of millions of citizens who are already broken by insecurity, poverty, hunger, and disease. Nigeria is a country blessed with immense resources, talent, and potential, yet its people continue to live in suffering and deprivation.
The shame of a nation is when individuals sacrifice the well-being of others simply to maintain their own comfort and privilege. It is when a nation begins to value wealth, influence, and political power more than the dignity and safety of its citizens.
It is also about the silence of those who should speak.
Many people say, “What can I do?” But the truth is that we all know what can be done. The real issue is that many people do not want to be the first to stand up, and they certainly do not want to be the ones to lead.
Yes, the shame of a nation also includes the silence of leaders—especially in Northern Nigeria—regarding what many see as the unlawful incarceration and political vendetta being carried out against Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai. It includes the intimidation of family members, associates, staff, and even individuals merely perceived to sympathize with him.
It is a tragic reflection of a nation when one of its most outspoken and prominent voices can be targeted simply for speaking his mind.
The shame of a nation is also visible on social media, where some individuals misuse the privilege of digital platforms to insult, intimidate, and attempt to silence others, believing they are untouchable and immune from accountability.
The shame of a nation is the slow destruction of its youth—young people who should be receiving quality education, meaningful opportunities, and skills for the future, but who are instead recruited into political thuggery and manipulation.
It is a shame when institutions and agencies created to protect and serve the people are instead weaponized as instruments of intimidation and political control.
It is indeed a shame of a nation when the word “independent” begins to mean the exact opposite—when institutions that should operate freely and impartially become dependent on political pressure and influence.
But let it be known:
If anyone believes that crude remarks, snide comments, or intimidation tactics can silence me, they are gravely mistaken.
Truth must be spoken, and silence in the face of injustice is not an option.
