Wednesday 9 September 2009

The Less Significant 49

As we can see, Independence day is fast approaching. It will soon mark 49 years since our great nation was freed from the chains of colonialism. The question remains; How much have we changed?

Some might argue that it is not significant for us to question the change Nigeria has gone through since the country will be turning a "less" significant age of 49 rather than 50, but should change be measured in numbers? Shouldn't every single day mark a new improvement in the life of every Nigerian?

Recently, the CBN Governor; Sanusi has either been praised or criticised for his name and shame tactics in getting funds borrowed to be paid back to th banks. Views vary and why shouldn't people be entitled to what they think? Personally, I commend Mr Sanusi's tactics of getting money repaid. During these times of Economic Recession, Nigeria must now allow the rich take advantage of the leniency they enjoy from the banks. Funds that are borrowed and outstanding MUST be paid back.

Lawyers like Ibori argue that it is only natural to borrow. Of course the man is right but when one borrows , the lender gives the money in the hope that it is paid back. When people borrow money n behalf of companies, then they must be prepared to suffer the consequences (that the company will suffer) of they cannot pay it back. Some might say Sanusi is being radical but i implore them to take another look at the situation, putting into consideration; Nigerian Mentality.

'If the loans are not paid back, then there is a high possibility a company could be denied more loans, which will mean the end for that establishment but painfully the loss of jobs. Directors, Managers, CEOs and the upper hierachy obviously have transferrable skills and network which means looking for another job will be a piece of cake. However the lower section of the hierachy, who tend to put in most of the Labour will be left jobless with families to cater for. The cycle begins, robbery and you name it all in the quest for survival. To quote from a book "How can i live by the river and still have soap in my eyes". Surrounded by wealth and opportunies, greed and the negativity of tribalism prevents equal opportunity and damages Economic growth.'

Call this radical socialist thinking. It's not. It's just an uncomfortable truth that a lot of wealthy Nigerians fail to accept. Suffering and intense poverty is still in existence 49 years on whilst the colonialists enjoy the fruits of colonialism. Nigerians must begin to accept what is right and reject what is wrong. My father says to me "An honourable man will die a dignified death for what is right". Obviously i have not said we should kill the greed, but the suggestion is this; Look corruption and temptation in the eye and say NO!

Our parents unfortunately have left us a Nigeria that still needs fixing but they have also instilled in us a sense of pride and discipline. Whatever faith you are, Truth and Fairness is valued and we all, I believe share that in value. Let October the 1st not be the beginning of positive attitudes towards change,No. Let tonight be it. Let us begin to move our nation forward. Leave 419, Leave Yahooze, Leave Fake Drugs. Endorse Free Education, Endorse Free Renewable Energy, Endorse Free Healthcare, Endore the cleaning up of the Nigerian Police, Endorse Reasonable Housing, End University Strikes. Nigeria CAN move forward. Nigeria WILL move forward. God Bless Nigeria.

Have Pride in your culture, Have pride in your Country, Have pride in yourself.

Happy Independence in Advance

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