By publisher
Journeying through the recent happenings in the Nigerian political terrain, I discovered a worrying development that has to be addressed with the right amount of zest. I recalled the famous Occupy Nigeria protest which started in 2012, an event that still invokes a sense of nostalgia as I write. It was a time when voices rose in unison against the economic and security challenges plaguing the nation. Nigerians trooped out en-masse, protesting across the city, and building camps in strategic centres, to demand accountability and good governance.
Yet, juxtaposing that energy with the current state of affairs reveals a disheartening reality of inconsistency and complacency among some who once championed the cause. Taking an honest look at recent happenings across the nation, one could almost wish for the return of the events that gave rise to the 2012 Occupy Nigeria protest. I do not intend to discredit the purpose of the Occupy Nigeria protest, neither do I fault those who defied the rain and sun to demand good governance. Rather, this is a call for consistency in our show of hunger for the Nigeria of our dreams.
Occupy Nigeria Protest: What Actually Changed?
Where are the well-meaning Nigerians who led protests against the then government? Are they all dead? Or, has their love for their fatherland suddenly waxed cold? Could it be that the criteria for good governance changed within the space of 10 years? These are the questions that puzzle my mind as I consider the unprecedented level of insecurity characterised by banditry, kidnapping-for-ransom, ritual killing and abduction currently ravaging the nation. There is also an alarming rate of hunger and poverty that calls for the pronouncement of a state of emergency in the economy of the nation.
For some background, the Occupy Nigeria movement emerged in response to the decision made by the Federal Government of President Goodluck Jonathan to remove fuel subsidies on Sunday, 1 January 2012. The protests commenced on Monday, 2 January 2012, and spread throughout the nation, including cities like Kano, Surulere, Ojota (a part of metropolitan Lagos), Abuja, Minna, and even extending to the Nigerian High Commission in London. The demonstrations were characterised by various forms of protest, including civil disobedience, resistance, strikes, public demonstrations, and active engagement through social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, which played a significant role in amplifying the movement’s message.
Let’s personalise this a little, for better understanding: if you were part of or supported the Occupy Nigeria movement and now find yourself disengaged, it begs the question: Where has the passion gone? Does Nigeria matter less to you now? Did you relocate in search of “greener pastures”? Are you suddenly immune to poverty and insecurity, as these were the leading causes of the Occupy Nigeria protests? Well, if one of those has happened to you, accept my congratulations. However, did you suddenly lose your humanity, that the cries of fellow Nigerians who are slaughtered daily no longer move you?
No doubt, the grievances that made individuals take to the streets were undeniably pressing. However, to suggest that the challenges facing Nigeria today are any less urgent would be a gross misrepresentation of the truth. Economic instability, political corruption, and social inequality persist, if not worsened, over the years. Therefore, the absence of sustained activism speaks not only to a lack of commitment but also to a troubling acceptance of the status quo.
Is There a Spiritual Angle?
The likelihood of being bewitched into passivity, rather than demanding accountability from those in power, is a poignant indictment of our collective conscience. If you think you’re being bewitched into accepting your fate now, rather than demanding good governance and accountability, let us know so we can take you to Odumeje for deliverance. His Abitoshaker and Gandhkagandusa should be invoked right into your spirit.
Nigeria, say no to ‘egunje’ government. Say no to clueless leadership. Reject all forms of oppr£ssion and speak loudly against those who seek to subject you to perpetual slavery in your own land.
This is the time to get on the streets and let those using the weapon of tribe and ethnicity to explore and exploit our commonwealth know that their time is up! They either fix things or vacate their seats for well-meaning and genuine leaders. This is not a call for revolution. This is not a call for violence. This is not a charge towards anarchy. Rather, this is only a reminder that Nigeria is too blessed to be reduced to an object of global mockery and international ridicule. The destinies of other African nations hinge on the prosperity of Nigeria and we can’t continue in this suicidal slumber.
As the publisher of Jerrymusa.com, I’ll continue to be your conscience. If you choose to continue in silence, you’re indirectly empowering your oppressors with more venom and reloading the assailant’s weapon with fresh amour. It is not only the oppressor who is guilty of his oppression but also those who enable him with their silence. Posterity will judge us all.