GO ON, NIGERIANS! (POEM)
Intro:
I went to check my pigeonhole at work today and saw an almanac slotted in there by whoever. It featured Orji Uzor Kalu, publicising a nebulous political ambition, and showing his latest political party as the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Abia State is yet to recover from the eight years of legendary misgovernance it suffered under Kalu from 1999 to 2007, which were followed by another eight years of the same under his former lackey, Theodore Orji. (A detailed appraisal of their tenures penned by Emenike Ubani can be read here.)
It is only in Nigeria that someone like Kalu will continue to be given relevance, so much so that he is advertising keeping “hope alive.” And what hope would that be? The hope of jumping from one party to the other in order to be allocated a juicy position, election into which would be a fait accompli long before the ballots are cast. The hope that Nigerians will never be delivered from recycling discredited politicians whom our “collective amnesia,” as famed Wole Soyinka calls it, inexplicaly puts on pedestals.
[bctt tweet=”When will Nigerians be delivered from recycling discredited politicians?” username=”edithsmusings”]
This sickening situation calls for the release of this poem, which I wrote in a moment of anger in June 2016. The All Progressives Congress (APC) had assumed power in Nigeria on May 29, 2015 and was rapidly disowning its fabulous campaign promises, such as making the Naira to be at par with the dollar and getting petrol to sell at N45 per litre. That anyone swallowed these fairytale promises in the first place confirms Dean Koontz’s assertion that “It is human nature to want to believe in the wizardry of the magician,” which wizardly often fails. As one female journalist had warned, everyone suddenly realised there wasn’t any magic wand for fixing things in politics.
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(Related: Governance by Trial and Error)
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Incredibly, when the pledges were hastily chucked as infeasible, some of my compatriots were defending those elected on APC ticket and justifying the volte-face. #smh
[bctt tweet=”When will Nigerian politicians begin to be held accountable to the electorate?” username=”edithsmusings”]
But I didn’t post the poem immediately because it didn’t have the redemptive tone or call for prayer that I usually conclude such sociopolitical commentaries with. At the same time, I was loath to revise the poem. What was I to do? As I mulled over this today, I was reminded of prophetic warnings in the Scriptures that seemed to resign themselves to the inevitability of the people’s destruction for unrepentant sin. I saw that the harshness of the tone was meant to capture the people’s attention, hopefully for a turnaround. It didn’t necessarily mean that God had given up on His people.
So I’m posting the poem as it came, unmoderated. Hopefully, someone will read and contemplate. Hopefully, we won’t keep allowing politicians to pull the wool over our eyes. Do let me know your views on this.
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(Related: They are Pulling the Wool over Your Eyes!)
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GO ON, NIGERIANS!
Do we really want to fight corruption, clean as a whistle?
Do we honestly want to see “change” actualised?
Though some will term these questions rhetorical
They fail to see how in our polity it’s all been trivialised
We’re “fighting” corruption but our “white knight” has feet of clay
He and his underlings have skeletons in their vaults
Turning a blind eye to their own malfeasance while others they bray
Despising the lady with the scales who their avengement halts
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(Related: Safe Flight, Nigeria!)
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And on change, how can we accomplish what we can’t define
When the proponents have done an about-face and the elite are dumb?
Whining about the black gold, what happened to the diversification line?
Hiking prices they swore they will sink to rock bottom
Go on, Nigerians, and continue what you do with great aplomb
Fight one another, hurl insults and venerate your leaders
Ask no hard questions, make excuses for them, pick up the pieces after every bomb
And when elections are due again, invite back the same brood of vipers
Ⓒ Edith Ugochi Ohaja 2017
[bctt tweet=”This poem is a call on Nigerians to bury the political careers of their discredited leaders.” username=”edithsmusings”]
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If you look at world history, mankind keeps his lust for power in play. This creates autonomy, collaboration and friction. The result is have and have not’s and politicians who play them. When leaders of nations want more power, they push for war. So when King Jesus comes and sets up God’s Kingdom on earth. It is interesting how he will govern and also how living in the world will be at that time. Only He will know how to push us past our proverbial spin cycles of war and peace, lack and plenty. Until then we have to go on being His Hands and Feet and praying for the leaders we have.
You’re right, Diana! We should never stop praying because God is gracious and His mercy knows no end. Thanks a great deal for visiting and remain blessed.
That’s a wonderful poem filled with rhetorical questions begging for answers. Sometimes, I wonder if a Nigerian can actually rule the country. It’s just terrible! Every political disposition makes no kind of mistake or even delay in serving us this dish of political disappointment. I don’t know when we’ll get it right.
I hope a time comes when the different sectors in the country can thrive on its own without so much support from the government, just like our music industry which is a million-dollar industry but without much support from the government. I think that would be a viable way to Canaan. I say this because I’ve lost every single hope in the government of the country irrespective of which tribe or personality is in power. But ironically, we still need the government to create a conducive environment for each sector to thrive.
It’s a tricky situation we’re in. But I don’t believe God is as helpless as we are in this situation.
Nice, Chidey! It is sad but as you pointed out, God is still able to help us if we match our overflowing reliogisity with good conduct. You are blessed in Jesus’ name.
From whence do I begin? Recycling of old fools!(as they are not leaders). The introductory part or rather the motivation to finally release this beautiful poem to the public is absolutely captivating.
And on change. How can we accomplish what we haven’t defined? Turning a blind eye to their men’s misdeeds while crucifying those with the smallest of shoddy deals.
All hope is not lost as the poem asks us to change the unworthy hope chanters. To do this, we need to stop recycling!
I’m in awe of this writer and the magnificent things she does with her pen. Cheers
Glory to God! We cannot afford to lose hope. We just need a reorientation and less selfishness, because those who rabidly support these politicians hope to gain some pecuniary dividends. There’s very little altruism in the system. But with God’s help, Nigeria will not remain like this. We shall get there in Jesus’ name. Receive abundant favour for your last push here in Jesus’ name.
NO, WE WON’T
Another great piece, Aunty.
But on behalf of all right thinking Nigerians, this is one call to action that we would gladly refuse to heed.
In the light of the issues listed in verses one to three, we will NOT continue to do what we do with great aplomb;
We will NOT continue to fight one another, hurl insults and venerate our leaders;
We will ask hard questions, REFUSE TO make excuses for them even if we picked up the pieces after every bomb;
And when elections are due again, well, we will invite back the same brood of vipers and kick their butts.
Praie God! That is my earnest prayer. God’s protection and boundless provision for you and your family in Jesus’ name.
your poems always hit a raw nerve just as this one did but I think the problem we have is penury, because the people know these politicians didn’t do well earlier and shouldn’t be voted again. when during election these politicians stuff the citizens with money, they simply sell their vote thereby electing the same bad eggs. its the grace of God that we need to survive in this country. people focus on the gains of the moment and forget the aftermath. Rigging of election seems to be one of the winning tactics and people are keeping quite to avoid blooodshed.
my candid opinion Ma, Remain blessed!
Thank you so much for weighing in on the discussion. Poverty is part of the problem but greed as well. The powerful people who endorse those with terrible track records in public office are already wealthy but want to maintain a tight rein on government coffers to divert our collective patrimony to their reservoirs. Prayer helps in strengthening our hearts and affording us divine protection from those who intimidate folks. May those who threaten and kill others for standing for truth be ambushed by the Lord in Jesus’ name. Nigeria will shine whether some folks like it or not. Abundant blessings to you and your family in Jesus’ name.
I think we are the problem. We keep having amnesia. Forgetting the horrible things these leaders had done to us in the past. We applaud them for doing nothing. Look at the case of IPOB. If those young men should channel their energy to holding their governors and representatives accountable, there won’t be any need to constantly remind the federal government that the south east exists. But no! People will collect 2k and hail the Satan. It’s disheartening. Just negodu Kalu. Somehow people have forgotten the days he and his mother were the supreme leaders in Abia. They hindered growth and never listened to cries of the people. Look at Rochas. People are still telling him he is the best. Ike gwuru oh! But we shouldn’t lose hope. Christ will prevail at last. We just need to continue in our supplication to God Almighty. He conquered Pharaoh and Nebuchadnezzar. Who are Nigerian politicians to his mighty hand?
Apparently, some of them think they are God, that they will never answer for their nefarious deeds. I agree with you. We should keep praying and doing what is legally required to boot them out of public office. I pray grace multiplied on you in all your endeavours in Jesus’ name.
Well, the issue of politics in Nigeria today is something someone might find very difficult to write home about. At times, I begin to wonder the type of people we have in the country. When Mr. President went out for medical checkup, there were tensions everywhere as his whereabouts and medical situation which led to an erstwhile lawmaker in the UK tasking Nigerians to ask questions. He said that Nigerians don’t ask questions about their leaders. If not all educated, the average learners must have been aware of the propaganda used on them in electioneering. The campaign of ‘I’ll bring heaven to earth if you vote for me’ has been there and the question remains, to which extend would all these politicians deceive us. They said we need a change, the change has come but what are we really seeing? The positive or negative change? Tell me what you intend to achieve in governance when you fight your enemies or opposition party(ies) in the name of fighting corruption while your party remains an abode for the corrupt people? It’s well my fellow compatriots. If we voted for a government and we are satisfied let’s vote for the people again, but if otherwise, I think the option is to vote them out. I may not continue to put to paper about the Nigerian political historic verbiage otherwise reading it might put someone to ridicule. May God help us.
Indeed, a Good poem, full of knowledge.
Oh yes, we need to ask questions and put these people where they belong: in the garbage heap of history, not kowtowing to them endlessly. I pray you have good news regarding your job soon in Jesus’ name.
Its so disheartening that this keep happening. We keep recycling same set of politicians who did next to nothing while they were in power.
This is partly due to the gullibility of the electorates. These politicians are wise and they know what to do to divide the common man.
They steal in bulks and in turn share peanuts to people and they are happy and satisfied. “He is really working”, becomes the anthem when this happens.
They bring up religious/ethnic sentiments in order to deceive the common man, while they dine together in secret. History is replete with cases where adherents of two or more so called political ” enemies” clashed both online and physically, only for these same set of people to put away their differences and work together later on.
Nigerians need to wake up, when they share their loots there is no christian or Muslim or traditional worshipper there. They are all one. These guys are playing us.
We need to say No to some of these things, how can someone be in the political arena for many years without any tangible contribution and he is still revered and highly regarded by his society. Its unheard of.
I believe we need a revolution in Nigeria. And it starts with You and I.
Well said, Paulo! There’s no real difference in the parties. That is why they crosscarpet back and forth. And the average oerson continues to suffer unnecessary hardship because there is no infrastructural development, no meaningful service delivery in the system. Our people should begin to distegard these people and not treat them as lords for a start. You are highly blessed in Jesus’ name.
Once again, the pertinence of reaxamining our value-base as a people stares us right in the eyes!
How be it that serving in any political capacity is acceptably a “sentence” to a lifetime of, if not inter-generational, affluence?
The issue is that many supposedly worrisome ills have lost their questionability! To worsen it all, it continuously keeps diffusing and solidifying into our value-base, with the ever emergence of newer generations!
Achebe saw the problem as squarely that of leadership. Maybe he was right; perhaps, the problem of his generation was predominantly within the domain of leadership. Maybe majority of the followers still hearkened to the voice of reason! If that was the case, then we must have seen a massive evolution, a complementary interplay of poor leadership and followership. The “ocean of heads” following our known kleptomaniac politicians to campaign rallies alludes to the massive public endorsement of political theft! Could it be Stockholm Syndrome? Why do the same people at the receiving end of a decayed project keep singing praises of their oppressors?
The Poet is obviously angry but hopeful, so should all sane-minded Nigerians! If we unanimously rebuke evil, it surely will flee.
God Bless the poet!
I quite agree with you, Ozor! The problem has definitely evolved encompassing both the leaders and the followers. May God help us to never lose hope and say a resounding “No” to this and associated evils. Wish our young people would start showing strength of character and rejecting the peanuts offered by these politicians to buy their subservience. You are forever lifted, my dear, in Jesus’ name.
Hi Edith, well done for publishing this inspired piece of poetry. The background as well as the poem itself both make a disturbing read especially since the subject – Nigeria and Nigerians – are both internationally significant characters in the overall scheme of things global.
Every previous contributor have each captured different aspects of the appropriate expected response that it would be very difficult adding anything new or different. However, I will like to simply add that, firstly, the problem of Nigeria is not different from the continent in which it finds itself – Africa. The primary problem of Africa is not Africans (including their leaders or misleaders, as the case may be) but rather the powers that be who are beyond its shores and who are bent on exploiting it till it eventually drops dead. These are the people who constantly influence local elections in African countries in a bit to ensure that whoever emerges winner is the candidate who is willing to cooperate with them in fostering their foreign policies as it affects respective countries and Africa at large. With respect to the last election in Nigeria, I believe some Nigerians are well aware of the role the West, especially UK and USA, played in ensuring that GEJ relinquished power to PMB even as results were yet to be finalised and that is despite the known case of rigging that was done in Kano state. Why would Obama bear down on GEJ to call PMB with a congratulatory message despite the two issues highlighted above? Similar instances are repeated all over Africa. Or why do you think that the late Gen Abacha was able to remain in power despite his vagrant abuse of human rights and corruption whereas in other parts of Africa similar dictators were easily topped in coups (most of which were Western sponsored)? The key problem is that Africa is not independent and therefore cannot engage in self determination (including choosing its leaders) as it should. While Africans, including the Nigerian masses, are used as pawns in electoral processes the real deciders of electoral outcomes in Africa are the powers that be who use it as a cash cow of natural and other resources for the smooth running of their respective countries. Hence, even if Nigerians were to awake and arise (assuming that is possible), change will be hard to come by except and until Africa secures true independence and breaks free from the stranglehold of the West.
There is so much truth in what you said, Ziri, especially as regards the last elections in Nigeria. But this inequity can’t continue forever. There must be light at the end of the tinnel and having been so long in it, shouldn’t we be coming out soon? I choose to continue praying that our people’s eyes be opened to take a stand which the West will be unable to sabotage. It is well with you and yours, Ziri, in Jesus’ name.
The Political consciousness of the average Nigerian is shortened by spasms of selective and self imposed amnesia. We sacrifice our future for empty promises. We quickly baptized GMB into PMB; substituting the General with the garb of the President. We rationalize the antics of corrupt politicians on the premise that they might have changed for the better. We glorify evil and deride forthrightness. We get what we deserve. It was the Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, who told a crowd of supporters at the Portharcourt township stadium in 2014, that politicians steal because the masses do not stone them yet they clapped for him instead of stoning him. The masses in Nigeria are looking for divine intervention while conveniently burying themselves in irreverent supplication to the supreme Being. God must be irritated with us because we a people who continue to mock him with our superlative prayers and sycophantic actions. Nigeria is in reverse mode.
Hi Ambrose! We will move forward, by God’s grace! It’s taken longer than it should but I think things will begin to fall into place if people of faith don’t give up. More blessings to you in Jesus’ name.
Tis so unfortunate that majority of Nigerian politicians are deceitful. Tis time Nigerians shine their eyes and shun them. Let’s identify d few good ones and support them. Tanx 4 ur poem.
I concur with your view, Freedom. In Nigeria, what matters is not the party because none of them is good. What we should check is the character and track record of the individual. Overflowing blessings on you and your family in Jesus’ name.
Oh, Edith, I can see that your thoughts towards your nation have been not a lot unlike thoughts I have had towards my own country at times. It truly does boil down to the peoples’ position before God. The greater the following for Him, the greater His blessing and mercy, and ALL OUR HOPE is in Him. I admire you for writing honest thoughts. The Lord’s will be done, in our hearts, and in all the world !!
Amen and thanks a lot, Tammy! These problems rankle much because they are more or less self-inflicted. Our people worshipping those who are making it difficult for Nigeria to raise her head in the comity of nation! May God have mercy on us! Have a wonderful weekend, Tammy, and blessings always in Jesus’ name.
It’s saddening. However come 2019, these same brood of vipers will secure themselves fantastic positions. Either by hook or crook. The last time I checked, corruption has not been eradicated.
My dear, the Lord will help us. This whole thing has turned into a nightmare. My regards to your family and stay blessed!
Thanks Aunty Edith for another instructive opinion piece and poem. Thank you for the hopeful notes you include in your writings and your responses to all the comments. Nigeria’s situation is one that will try the faith of even the most optimistic of persons. But we must never give up. What we must do is to start taking pragmatic actions, the type encouraged by the rhetorical questions raised in your poem, in addition to prayers. Please keep your infectious optimism going. It could just be the tonic needed to ginger so many of us who are nearly losing faith
Delighted to hear from you, Aniekan! Yes, prayer needs to be accompanied by pragmatic actions. Our people need to outgrow their slavish mentality and shun these politicians who keep turning up like bad pennies. My regards to your family. You guys are richly blessed in Jesus’ name.
It’s a beautiful piece, Aunty. I like the bluntness and harsh language: they help to drive home your point. I pray God helps us. Kudos, Aunty!
Amen. We have no other source of hope. More grace in your own writing in Jesus’ name.
The leaders of this nation keep moving in circles, deceiving the masses and expecting to be praised. Instead let’s do away with our religious differences, ethnicity and greed. Then we can talk about standing up against these ‘thieves’ in the name of politicians. The few good ones get greatly influenced by the people before them and are forced into that same cycle of unproductivity and endless promises to the masses. An average Nigerian won’t hesitate to collect that next contract or dividend if he is required to use his office to speak against another… But that is not life. We all should be able to say ‘NO’ to their empty flickers of hope during elections. We have had enough already.? Until we realize that they are deceiving us and stand up for our rights, demand accountability and work towards patriotism, we may not be able to get there! Talking about Nigerian Politics makes me annoyed that we just wait for another election period to hurl insults at our leaders. But, No, We Won’t Continue to do That!
It does make me mad and sad at the same time too, Gloria! But that’s the reason we pray that our people will stand against the exploitation. You are blessed, my dear!
Go on Nigeria
God will help us, Amen.
Amen and amen, in Jesus’ name.
Only God can really help our situations in this country, really.
corruption has really eaten up this country, may God help us and touch the hearts of our leaders to lead us right, and also our hearts to flee from corruption.
I love how this poem stylishly discussed the nation, & the matters we face. Nice one
indeed corruption, since day one has been a thorn in our flesh. But I believe there is still room for change & God will see us through.
NEXT ELECTION SEE US VOTING AFTER RECEIVING 500NAIRA. THE COUNTRY TIRE US OOH. WE COMPLAIN AND WE STILL MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE ALL THE TIME. WONDERFUL POEM. KEEP IT UP MA
I hope that when 2019 comes, these leaders won’t come back to office. So, we should leave everything concerning Nigeria in the hands of God and we should pray and watch
It is a pain in the heart that we are still at he level of development despite all we’ve got as a nation to move us forward. But we can all collectively still make a difference because the truth of the matter is that “The Ambassadors of Poverty’ are all of us whose actions and in-actions collectively steal the joy and progress of our nation because of what we should do which we never do!
So, for us to get closer to the promised land, all hands must be on deck with a positive and right attitude towards our work and duties Because ‘Nigeria’ is all of us!
hopefully and prayerfully God will help Nigeria. The absence of these leaders is the good of all.
this is so sad. whats saddest is the part about “the same brood of vipers”. i feel like there is no hope for us anymore in Nigeria?
will the next generations meet this same nonsense?
And at the end, what happens still happens! The situation keeps degenerating by the day. Help your Nigerian children O Lord! We have no one else to turn to.
Nice piece ma, the right piece to keep us alert on the issues facing our dear country, Nigeria.
Politics in Nigeria makes me weep. The corruption is too much. The incompetence of government officials makes one wonder how we’ll ever move forward if the people steering the wheels of the nation are incompetent. We’ve praying for long, weeping and lamenting but for how long?
Nigeria, it is well.
Say it and believe it.
Nigeria must learn to stand up for herself. Enough of greedy politicians with kleptomaniac fingers, we must do all we can to succeed.
This poem holds a bitter truth. We cry about the bad governance in Nigeria, but still fuel it, by recycling men, who are notorious for nothing but crime as our leaders. Beautiful poem. If every Nigerian could read this, there could, probably, be a revolution in our hearts, to do the needful for once.
Wow! This actually is what I term “the bitter truth” the same persons whom the government brutalize also vote them in when its time.
Most times i wonder if this country is in a circular form. Those who ruled while they were young are still ruling in their old age. Quite appalling. Leaders with selfish ambition, never had the interest of the citizens at heart. God, please help this country.
“How can we accomplish change when we can’t define it”. We Nigerians don’t actually know what we want, we are not finding solution to the malaise in our society but inadvertently contributing to issue at hand. If a voice should stand up for a change or confront the system such voice is silenced. This is not the Nigeria which our patriarchs fought for denying their personal desires for the spirit of nationhood and an egalitarian society. The solution to our problem is not a top bottom approach but a bottom top posture.
I see people commenting “God will help us” . Well God will help us but would He help us even in situations He has equipped us to help ourselves? Ma thank you for the poem, I love the use of the questions which some people refuse or forget to ask…
Nigeria being a country blessed with so many natural and human resources. The lust for power continues to cripple the nation and only time will tell what the future holds for Nigerians. God help us all
God help Nigeria! we are always pointing fingers at the politicians and the oga’s at the top for the cause of Nigeria’s problems today. but the truth is that we all have a hand in it, corruption is at the grassroots already, so if we want a change we better start with the man in the mirror, start with ourselves as individuals and make a change.
I believe and know that Nigeria is a Nation after God’s own heart we are the Israel of this time
if we want a change it begins with you and me Nigeria also needs God I believe that Nigeria is where it is today because of God .so we shouldn’t leave God out of Nigeria’s life.
It’s so sad a fact that we keep going round same circle. But then we are the cause of our problems, everybody wants good governance but once someone we know is vying for a post we throw away our sense reasoning and let vain things cloud our minds. I pray we all stand and do the needful
Aunty Edith thank you ma. This is really awesome. You know, when they say the world lacks good leaders I always frown at the statement because it’s a wrong impression. The world has more good leaders than bad ones but the process of selection only permits bad ones to ascend the throne. So unfortunate this will never change untill there’s a change in leadership selection process.
i still believe that politics is a dirty game and our Nigerian leaders are interested in eating the national cake than implementing policies that will change the country. the problem though lies on us the electorate who will be hoodwinked into voting for the wrong persons on the promises of a bag of rice, groundnut oil and money. but i refuse to give up, there is hope for us.
This is a wonderful poem, God loves Nigeria if not our country will not have reached where it is but the corrupt leaders who are after their own selfish gain will suck up the money meant for the county’s growth.
Though am unsure whether i understood the poem or not, am pessimistic about Nigeria’s present condition. i think if the electorate can be reasonable enough when choosing their prospective leaders, all the nonsense we see in this country will come to an end.
Yes, we need change but who will our messiah come from. it is time not about the consideration of our different social value system among the ethnic groups in the nation. the qualified person that will restructure and rehabilitate this system of government . God has already bless us with many thing and it is now our responsibilities to work effectively with gods provision.
In as much as we need God’s help, we(Nigerians), should also help ourselves by electing the right people into authority. Another election is around the corner, how many people are ready to vote and why are you voting for the person you chose to vote for? Its high time we wake up, lets stop our politicians from pulling the wool over our eyes.
as much as we need God’s help in this country, all of us also have our parts to play, for a better country
The poem sums up the predicament facing Nigeria and the matters arising in the country .Our leaders have let us down but God will see us through.
God bless Nigeria!
indeed, God would deliver Nigerians from corruption and foolishness. i wish every Nigerian’s can read this post, guess it would give wisdom and be a wake-up call to all. Nigeria needs the truth and this is the truth.
“We’re “fighting” corruption but our “white knight” has feet of clay” is my favorite line. i think our problem is that fingers are being pointed at others when it should be pointed the other way. nice piece Ma.
Corruption is a big issue that is faced by this country, our leaders are corruption themselves, they care not about the country or the people in it, the question is when will this stop? People are dying, children are going hungry our money is being spent and used by the tip politician, when will change come, oh Nigeria, the thoughts of the predicament of the country alone gives me high fever..
God has blessed us enough for us to know what to do with this blessings but it’s sad that we Nigerians in places of power have put our pocket first before our responsibility. A major reflection
This is like a call to all Nigerians, let us sit up and fight for corruption by putting the right person on the seat. We should all heed to this call.
Nigeria will get better only when those elected into office starts fulfilling their campaign promises and stop seeing the position as a means of enriching their pockets and causing more underdevelopment to the country and its economy
I have always submitted, in similar topics, that Nigeria’s Problem is the Problem of Leadership. And for us to escape from this almost intractable problem all hands must be on deck. This means that everybody has to be in agreement that there is problem in the land. A poet once categorised people who contribute to the downfall of the country as Ambassadors of Poverty. For they are many: All those who through their actions or in actions contribute to the national problem; All the leaders who launder money abroad; All Barristers etc who bend the law for financial gains etc. It is instructive that the poet recognised a lot of people as ambassadors of poverty. In other words, if you see and keep quiet or know or partake in sharing the public treasury, you are an ambassador of poverty. The truth is that only God can make this possible because it is almost impossible to get everybody in agreement. Those leaders, Patriots in revers order flummox people with Cash during elections and people forget their conditions and Sorrows for momentary gain. We pray God Rescues Nation because even the so-called Messiah of Nigeria, Buhari has successfully failed to deliver on his promises and in fact things are getting worse. He is consistent in failure!
What Nigerians need to be reminded is that we are the ones worsening our political situation. Many of our people are selecting candidates because of they can put in their pockets and their sentiments with those people. That power to call people up to function is in our hands; we, the people.
Its quite unfortunate at the stage our great country find herself in. we yearn for change and this is what we are given ” chains” i weep for this country how has the mighty fallen the giant which was once the pride of the black race has become an object of mockery in the mouth of many why put an old wine in a new keg,our leaders are selfish,clueless and certainly outdated we need a change but such radical change can only begin with you and me stopping the accusation and counter accusations and standing up to rescue our country from the grip of this political kill joy /failures (leaders/politicians).
If only all Nigerians can read this, it would change our mindset. Go on Nigerians though.
Let’s just put our hope in God for this country’s sake. I still believe strongly that there’s a way out, old leaders or new ones. It is well with us
The problem this country has is not only from the politicians.. The problem of this country is dominant at the grassroot(the people). When we begin to discipline ourselves, we will begin to produce better leaders.
Nigeria can get better, yes she can, when she gets good leaders. Leaders who have the people and not their pockets as top priority; be it a recycled leader or a new one. We are heading there, I believe we are. God bless Nigeria.
I’ve run through the history of Nigeria politically, and it seemed like things are actually getting worst. Conclusively, it only takes the grace of God for change to permanently take place in Nigeria
The best thing to do in this coming general election is to vote in young people. Because the old leaders have not properly utilize the mandate given to them. Sometimes I pray that this great nation will one day regain its lost glory.
Her lost *
This poem nailed it…Corruption is Nigeria’s biggest challenge. It is clear to every citizen that the level of corruption in the country is high. It’s found in every sector of society. Be it small or big sector, there is every possibility of observing corrupt practices when critically examined.Corruption is a potent cancer that has mercilessly eaten Nigeria to a state of stupor…
NIGERIA, A LAND WHERE ANIMALS ARE AS CORRUPT AS HUMANS. GOD HELP US. THE ELECTION PERIOD THAT SHOULD BRING CHANGE INSTEAD USHERS US DEEPER INTO TROUBLE. I DONT WANT TO GIVE UP ON MY COUNTRY BUT WHEN I THINK OF THE CRISIS AND SERIES OF CORRUPTION. I CANT HELP BUT WONDER IF NIGERIA WILL EVER BE FIT FOR LIVING.
when shall corruption cease, when shall we look at our country and say: everything is back to normal. Nigeria is like what Chinua Achebe proclaimed: things fall apart and the center can no longer hold. every one is looking for an opportunity to loot and improvise lives but we shall not run away, we are here hoping for a brighter tomorrow.
how can we fight corruption when both the leaders and the followers are corrupt, how can change come when those that claim to give us change have made the situation worst than it was. politicians are the most corrupt people in Nigeria,they say one thing and do another. whether APC or PDP, non is better, they are all worse than they seem. Nigeria only needs Gods intervention, and we pray he will show us mercy,because even christian leaders are not different, they are all the same thing.
Nigeria go survive, Africa go survive. With all the drama going on in the country, al we have gt to do is to put the nation in the hands of God. How can we be living in a country where our politicians have taken us for fools, playing and deceiving us with their lies. With the present state of the country,i dont what to expect in the nearest future.
Its a very interesting poem and one that is rich too. It is a call to Nigerians to fight corruption and actualise change
This poem is a call for action to every Nigerian. In as much as we have a corrupt government and we need God’s intervention in this nation, I believe we all have a part to play as individuals to better Nigeria
And my best line in the poem.is.
“And on change, how can we accomplish what we can’t define?
I personally think the problem Nigeria is Facing is the problem of failing to give a reasonable definition of her problems hence the president keep fighting corruption without putting development in check.
GOD HELP NIGERIA!
this poem motivates me as a Nigerian to contribute towards the development of the nation
I don’t know if this country will ever change, our leaders are out there stealing money and deceiving the lower class.people are suffering but they act unaware,it will only take the hand of God to turn things around in this nation!
During the 2015 Presidential Election the APC defeated the incumbent Govt of the PDP in a victorious bout. The people made a choice and voted in ‘change’.
The way this change was colourfully painted in shades of hallucination and fairy tales -Many Nigerians travelled to dream land in their imaginations.
Frankly, that term was not defined and with high rocking corruption and insurgency in the country claiming the lives of Nigerians at a rather cheap cost, we bought the change commodity with the currency of our votes.
Where did we go wrong?
Change is good- though only when positive.
Were we wrong to have fallen into the trap of wanting that sudden transformation that Buhari offered us- more like a ‘wave of the wand-abracadabra’ transformation?
Were we wrong to wish things to get better by voting in a Govt that has offers us our so desired?
Were the campaign promises of the buhari led administrate good? No doubt but feasible within the inspecific but implied timeframe, no!
Now this is where we went wrong.
We assumed that change is exclusive to the govt and nothing else.
We wanted things to change but did not take into cognisance the fact that for change to occur there are sacrifices to made and drastic steps to be taken.
We wanted things to change overnight or on the fortnight.
Oh! Won’t it be perfect to sleep in a chaotic Nigeria and wake up to a peaceful one. Sounds great!
We have heaped all the blame on the politicians- oh how corrupt are they and have forgotten that the student who sorts the lecturer is corrupt; the market woman who inflates the prices; the secretary who must receive a token before you see oga and the list is endless.
Change doesn’t come in a giffy. Its a process and the earlier we realise- the better.
I love the pull-out from wole soyinka in the introduction of this poem “collective amnesia!” i still wonder why Nigerians voted Buhari. i can’t stop wondering. it’s appalling how we always forget, how we never learn from our past mistakes. only God can save us from the claws of the devil. we need to pray and fast for Nigeria every chance we get, it’s really sad that there is not much we can do about the current situation except to pray. prayer can go a very long way! this poem’s satirical nature makes it compelling and attractive. I’m scrolling up to read again
‘change’ funny enough Nigerians has given a new meaning to it. I remember a politician who used change as his main propaganda, the people antagonized him for that word change. Nigerians never learn from their mistakes, looking at the present government and the negative impact it has had on our economy and I wonder why people still campaign for his second tenor. Nigerians only think about the benefit they can get from things and never think of the repercussions it will have on their future. we should all pray and commit this country of ours into God’s hands. thank u ma for seeing the truth and making others see it.
The change in Nigeria lies in our hands and not that of the politicians. This is our chance to rise and fight for our freedom.Corruption cages us.We have to stand and vote leaders who are not out to sap us.
Its high time we behave like rational people and not just babies, it’s time we stop giving an ear to fake promises as if we are reading folktale. Let’s sit up to our responsibility and pray that God being God will look into the affairs of this country
Being ordinary citizens doesnt mean we should be made to look like fools. We exercised our rights in voting so we have every right to ask for the best. We should also be wise while voting. From experience, we should have known those who will be good for us and those who woukd not be. Nigeria would be better if we choose the right leaders.
We are the change we make of our selves, Nigerian administration a government in the likeness of a giant whale that swallows up dreams yet the old never resting corrupt leaders say we are the leaders of tomorrow. Why then do we practice democracy if power truly lies in the hands of the people..ma I think its high time poems like this get nailed to the heads of we Nigerians and let’s be the change we want.
The rhetorical questions in these peom makes it easy for us to understand what nigerians want.until these questions are answered we won’t see the change we want.we can’t say we are fighting corruption, and live with it.it’s high time we stand for what we want and live by it.nice peom ma.
I don’t know what can be done to turn away all these legendary politicians from politics. Old smiling faces of opposite minds. It is high time we did Revolution. We can achieve it as a people provided we are right.
Nigerians are just too gullible to political promises. Even when it is blatantly clear that a candidate should not have a vote, people are still swayed by propaganda. Unashamed old cargoes buy votes with money, knowing that without money, they cannot win. It is now our arsenal to deal out Justice with our franchise.
The problem with Nigerians is that we are too fickle minded and our politicians use this against us. I have a dream that one day, the Nigerian youths will rise up against the old,deceitful, corrupt and myopic leaders who have defined our polity for decades and put them where they belong and take charge of the governance of this country.
It is time for Nigerians to wake up! We are sick and tired of hearing all the promises our politicians make to us. Promises that they can never fufill, they only hype our hopes up and entice us with their sweet words during their campaigns. Enough of breaking promises! Nigerians should be wise whenever they are exercising their franchise. We should not sell our votes for a small token given to us by the ambassadors of poverty we call politicians and leaders.
“Go on, Nigerians, and continue what you do with great aplomb
Fight one another, hurl insults and venerate your leaders
Ask no hard questions, make excuses for them, pick up the pieces after every bomb
And when elections are due again, invite back the same brood of vipers”
The above stanza though sarcastic but true.
Nigerian political revolution is the type that reshuffles bad leaders with a pleasing brand name. God help us.
Nigeria needs urgent attention. Things have gone wrong beyond repair and if nothing is done, we should expect the worst. Nigeria needs total restructuring. I’m not even sure of the political system we are practicing in Nigeria. So different from what I was thought in secondary school. Honestly, I have given up on Nigeria and I pray God remembers them once again.
Wow! What a wonderful poem! You summarized Nigerian political problems in a nutshell.. In few lines and stanzas you were able to create a magnificent imagery.. I like your diction and the poetry devices you used.
For instance, blood of vampires, clean as a whistle … Hmm nice poem.
It is a widely held belief that tha problem with Nigeria is her government.
There can’t be anymore ‘truer truth’ than this submission. Its pathetic however, how the masses recycles this charlatans, accrue to them political positions and eventually groan over their excesses.
It is believed that the problem with Nigeria is her government. There’s no ‘truer truth’ than this.
Nice one ma.
It’s sad the condition of our country, Nigeria. In the case of Orji Uzor Kalu, he was charged for embezzlement of funds but after joining the ruling party APC, the charges where dropped slowly. We are urged to question the government without fear in order to make our country a better place to be.
I can almost feel the heat with which you wrote this poem. Nigerians are just not ready to wake up from their slumber and make right decisions. We keep making the same mistakes over and over again but what can we say?. The sweet words and sugar coated lies our politicians feed us are enough to deceive any living being. It’s time we realised the truth though and make sure something good comes out of the upcoming elections. Nice work ma
Your poems always hits at the rightful place, I think we Nigerians are the problem. Everyone thinks about themselves and what they will benefit especially the leaders, that’s why corruption in the country keeps increasing but if we can tell ourselves the truth, we can make the forth coming election better by voting the right people in.
Corruption is a cankerworm that has eaten deep into Nigeria both politically, economically, socially and waterview!
It is time we rise to our fate,it is time we retrace our step or else Nigeria will fall on us..
I pray God help us in this forthcoming election to elect good leaders that will lead us in the right path..
I guess it is time for a revolution, the youths should take the mantle of leadership.
This poem can only come from a citizen who has been in this country and has been affect by ineffectiveness of its leaders. Nigerian citizens have a big rule in changing this country. All this kind of stories of bad leaders will be on a repeat, we have to stand up, identity this viperous individuals before get into power and ensure they don’t with our votes we can change things. We gave to understand that prayer for your county and also the wisdom of God to know who is who before we vote is indeed necessary and vital
Nigeria is indeed in danger for what their politicians are doing, making lives unbearable for the masses and after the person will still come out to contest by making promises that he can’t fulfill.
Nigeria is nefarious when it comes to politics,that is why most of the citizens regard politics as unclean game.But i believe,with prayer Nigeria can be able to conquer this cancerous situation they are facing.
Power should change hands since these leaders of ours don’t want to bring the change they promised and keep giving excuses.
Honestly, Nigeria is seriously messed up by this our so called leaders, who are deceiving themselves all in the name of leadership. Sometimes, i tend to wonder why it is the same people that keep on running around the sit in one way or the other, all in the name of leadership, how then will the country be better when greediness has become their No 1 priority. Every day is for the thief, one day is for the owner. I believe things will get better, we are not losing hope, not at all.
Corruption has eaten deep in our country, Nigeria. It is in the hands of the citizens (us) to sit up and fight corruption and actualise change. This change lies in our hands not in the hands of (corrupt) politicians and leaders. How can we do this? By voting in right persons not persons with fake promises that cant be fulfilled. God help us in the forthcoming election.
Nice piece, ma.
Fairytale promises, recycling politicians… All these will unfortunately continue to be certain in Nigeria as far as politics is concerned. Until we regain our senses by washing our eyes with pure water to make right choices of leadership am afraid things will continue to go wrong,if not worse. But the question now arise, how do we term or identify the so-called “right candidates” when they all stem up with mouth-watering promises all in the name of propaganda… We can’t stop praying for our nation, there is hope. May God help us
I think we are the problem,forgetting the terrible things these leaders had done to us in the past. We shouldn’t lose hope, Christ will prevail at last.we just need to continue in our prayers to God Almighty.
No be small thing! this country self i no understand,it is only during elections you see them making empty promises and it has been the same story all through.It is obvious the political party on seat give deaf ears to the problems so that they would see what to hold unto during the next campaign.It has been the game of survival of the fittest and if you can’t beat them,you join them.we need God’s intervention seriously.
Such a bitter tone used in this poem, also well needed as Nigerians definitely need a wake up call from doing the same old thing and having the same old results. We need change, a change of our mental philosophy so we stop being slaves to these cruel politicians in our own land.
This poem ought to be read by every Nigerian. It is a wake up call. The only time Nigeria can be whole again is when her citizens realise that the true change which we seek for starts from us, and not just realising it, but utilising their rights as citizens in accomplishing it.
Change is inevitable they say, but it doesn’t apply to the situation in Nigeria. We are supposed to transition from bad to better and then to the best but we seem to revolve the same cycle in this country. We go back to our old vomit ( which is electing past leaders that have taken us on a hell tour ). The tone used in this poem is rather too bitter and that’s because the situation is critical and many Nigerians are bitter.
This poem is awesome, it’s rhetorical, you know seeking for answers or solutions sometimes is tiresome, every leader comes with his own problem in the name of serving his father’s land, indeed may God help us
Good one Ma. It is high time for Nigerians to vote out the incompetent leader and vote in the one that has the interest of the masses at large. Our politicians most of them are dubious in nature.
Hmmmmmm this country is a joke, no offense, we need leaders who will move us forward without wanting to feel that power, but sorry to say this, it will be hard to find those kind in this country. We need God’s mercy upon us.
The promising words of our political leaders are like bombs which it’s debris have no use after the explosion. I think this bad and illegal act is an open secret dilemma which has really eaten deep into our way of life. Due to the universal language (money ) of humans in Nigeria, l do not think that the bright future we are clamoring for can ever be in place except there is a turnaround in the issue of corruption of the mind
it is high time the country experienced a political change. This country is in shambles and it requires a new set of leaders to run it. Only God can save Nigeria at this point.
The poem captures the hypocrisy in the fight against corruption . In essence the fight against corruption in Nigeria is selective. In Nigerian society today, if you are a corrupt government official who has embezzled money under PDP and you figured out that the Government will come against you ,all you need to do is to jump over to the ruling party (APC) and all the corruption charges against you will be dropped that is exactly why Orji Uzor Kalu had to jump over to avoid prosecution
The situation in Nigeria now is very bad. Everything is falling apart on a daily basis and we the citizens seem to be silent about the situation. Things will only get worse since the people that are meant to talk remain silent.
The problem of Nigeria is what you have touched, our politicians make fairytale promises that they know they won’t keep. Those that are in power criticize others but forget to criticize themselves. They make comments like ” I will probe patience Dame Jonathan ” but what about those that were probed the money realized where is it, what has been done with the money.
The corruption we face today is innate and not in our government. since the indepth of the heart can not be seen we will continue to have thugs in the post. if nigeria governance has taught me anything is not to believe in their propaganda. we need men of great intellects and knowledge in good politics, men engaging in strategic reasoning and men who have observed the world
The underdeveloped nature of Nigeria society is alarming.The politicians use ordinary Nigeria ?? as nothing but instruments of deceit and exploitation. God help us in this wicked nation called Nigeria.
Politics in Nigeria is dirty and undemocratic in nature. We, Nigerians, should learn to express our feelings about the governance of our country.
Our political structure corrupt.our politicians are mad and are after money. They have no respect for our civic right. We hope for a better Nigeria.
The poem is a nice one because it portrays how the politicians deceive us just to get our votes and when they get them, they will forget all they have promised us during their campaigns.
Hmm. There are two things we need to do now if we truly want CHANGE: pray and work. “Change begins with us”. No matter who is voted, corruption will still exist. But without darkness, light won’t shine. We just need to pray and have faith.
There is a clear indication that politics in Nigeria has been the opposite of what it is in the developed countries. African politicians are still backward in terms of their values such as unfulfilled promises, political corruption, greed, violence, tribalism and intimidation. The fight against corruption is one -sided and hypocritical.
We say we are united but in the real picture we are divided. We curse the government in power but when we see “brown envelopes” we sing their praises. Corruption is the order of the day. Government officials take bribe from citizens. Any administration fights against the opposition party as if they are the only corrupt people but those in power are more corrupt than others. Like the first and second line of stanza two pointed out they say they are fighting corruption but they have skeletons in their vaults. We just need God’s intervention or else the worst is coming
Before they go into power, they will make all sort of manifestos that will appeal to the people. After being elected, the reverse becomes the case. They do not representative the people but decamp from one political party to the other in the quest for power,embezzling public funds. God please delivered our country from.ravages
Go on, Nigeria: Is a sixteen line poem divided into two stanzas. The poem is centred on the political leaders of our country. When they are contesting for an elective position in the country, they present good manifestos to the electorate, while in office, they forget all their promise to the electorate and even if they want to carry out any plan, it is full of faults and weaknesses which led to national crises and destruction of lives and properties. line 9 and 10 of the poem:” we are fighting corruption but our white Knight has feet of clay” Electorates should be wise and choose wisely.
The real issue with Nigeria still lies with the fact that we refuse to tell ourselves the truth ,we blame the government for their shortcomings and yet we still put in the same caliber of rogues in the next elections ,personally I think the country will keep being a mess and even worse if we refuse to tell ourselves the hard truth and man up about the situations situations situations around us
I tell people we are the one that are causing all this havoc in Nigeria. We tell people who worship and fear God to take positions in government but they say they don’t want to soil their hands. Then you leave the ones who are unfaithful to rule and you expect something nice. I pray that God should help us.
Truly, there is “no magic wand for fixing things in politics” but we won’t allow the politicians to pull the wools over our eyes…also in the other hand we should repent from our old ways, because we might be suffering for our sins through the hands of our politicians.God have mercy on us and save from selfish leaders. Amen.
When elections come, these politicians make people forget their misdeeds by inciting tribes or different religions against each other. People are bought over with things as little as foodstuff and petty sums. Instead of people to vote for leaders based on their achievements and potential, they vote because he/she is a christian/Muslim, or from your village. Removing the old leaders we have is just like plucking out the fruits from the tree of corruption& ignorance. If we do not uproot this tree, it’ll simply yield new fruit when the season comes.
Of course diapers and politicians needed to be changed for the same reason…they are dirty. We see politicians sayings the same thing, giving the same manifestoes and making promises upon promises. I wish we cold do away with favouritism, ethnic discrimination and religion . Until we begin to see every one as our equal, our loved one and until we begin to act like family then things will change for better. Then Nigeria and Nigerians will have one mind. We don’t need politicians who make a thousand promises and fufil one, who embezzle our money and blame it on animals…we needed patriotic Nigerians who honestly want to make things better. God bless Nigeria!
Change will come to Nigeria eventually .I have hope in this country. But it won’t come until we as citizens do the right thing. Vote the right leaders and totally disguard those that have already failed us. 4 the country to be good, the citizens have to be very good. God bless Nigeria.
Our problems as Nigerians is that we prefer lies to the truth.some propaganda that some politicians do,though we know its impossible for them to fulfill it and we see lies in them we would still accept it.i just believe we are reaping the seed that we sowed
I believe that our country needs prayer and we the citizens of this country should try and begin the progressive work of making our country better.
We really need the good ones in the seat of governance,God please give leaders that are accountable, trustworthy and has integrity.
Give us good leaders lord,Give us a symbol of hope.
When the present administration came to office, they made a great play of their total honesty and dedication. Three years later, everything remains the same (or did I hear you say worse?). Favoritism, nepotism, covert and overt corruption has infected high places. Now, the whole society has degraded as opportunists who masqueraded as Democrats and achieved “helicopter” wealth by embezzling public fund are shamelessly giving Buhari and Nigerians “waka” sign.
As a result hypocricy, these crooks in PDP and APC have reduced Nigeria to ashes. After soiling the ground with their excretion, they perched above from where they smile wickedly down at us as we thread blows among ourselves on social media. Like mumu, we are oblivious to the fact that we are the victims in this mockery of governance by these men. Shame on us!
How could one explain the swaggering buffoonery of Buhari’s administration that rode into power with the promise to rout corruption in the Nigerian system? The failure of President Buhari to reign in on corrupt elements in the APC and his kitchen cabinet has emboldened the dreadfully corrupt elements in PDP to join his administration in making a mockery of governance
The political leaders in the APC and PDP have been like a beautiful-poisonous butterfly that sucked us in their corrupt acts. Our worst nightmares took on flesh as we watch them make a mockery of corruption on national and social media
This is a clarion call on Nigerians to reject APC and PDP, ‘shine’ our eyes and support an energetic presidential candidate of a new coalition. Together, we can
The now obvious truth is that President Buhari is a hypocrite who weaponized his so called anti-corruption war for the purpose of hounding the opposition so that no one would be able to challenge his re-election bid because he knows that on the strength of his first term performance, Nigerians will not even vote for him to head a local government, how much more to lead their nation a second time
Nigeria really needs prayers because our leaders are not fighting corruption but embezzling the resources and leaving the masses to suffer l pray for a better Nigeria where justice will reign
What a wonderful piece! The tone of this great poet is one who is patriotic and deeply hurt by the wrong if our leaders and Nigerians who aid and abet this wrong. Permit me to say you deserve an accolade ma’am. Nigeria is a very religious nation in fact too religious that we tend to forget our obligations as citizens. Alas! We cry, all me need is prayer-a stale hope-_no offense; a total waste of time. We need a better Nigeria and a better Nigeria we will get if we all take responsibility of our actions.
indeed we always bring back the same brood of vipers that have made life so unbearable. Another presidential election would soon take place, and God Help us that, the same viper won’t be brought back to power ?
Nigerians have the mentality that second term is ‘a birth right’ as a politician whether he is working or not. this is one of the tradition that draws us backward. once we can change that mentality and focus on competence, effectiveness, development, eradicating corruption and nation building, we can make a better Nigeria. get your PVC and get ready to vote in a better Nigeria.
Go on Nigerians, yea i actually agree with you maam this is actually what we need right now,someone to make us think and ask queations not hurling and putting blames on ourselves and our leaders. Lets wake up from our slumber and revive this country.
My blood boil with rage when I see our so_called leaders rule us all in
an inconsiderate manner. The way corruption and sentimentality are carried out in this nation with impunity makes one to wonder if there is any need for a government at all.
Misplacement of priorities and directionlessness is one thing that characterizes the state of this nation . It is a saddening situation to see Nigerians to indulge this leaders and let them put strife amongst us using religion and ethnicity while they go ahead with their nefarious activities with impunity.
This is a splendid piece of literature. But if you ask me, I think what Nigeria needs is a person who will unite us and we the people also need to have that overwhelming need to obey the laws of the land
Its soo obvious that those that are in position of power of this country sees us as nothing. Both parties APC and PDP are the source of this great countries problem. Lets join hands together to eradicate in this coming presidential election because staying in our various houses then pray from morning till night won’t solve this one.
Corruption is one of the vices holding Nigeria from achieving development…we lag behind cause of a lot of things….we need to change….find a way of curbing corruption and other vices in the country….let’s fight our way through and always remain true
A way must be created out of this pandemonium, because it is getting much. We cannot sit and wait. God is on our side.
It is high time the country experiences a political change. This country is in shambles and it requires a new set of leaders to run it. Only God’s mercy can save Nigeria at this point.
Hmm! Nigerians, we just accept anything that comes our way without asking questions. We are known for managing any kind of situation that is why our leaders do whatever pleases them not minding who it is affecting so long their own family is not affected. It hurts alot I must say. Nigerians need to rise and take action just professing words like “one day e go better” won’t solve the problem.
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm! Though our problems as a country haven never been that we don’t know our plight as people, just that the “WILL ” to demand or hold our ASSUMED leaders accountable seemed to have ELUDED us. GOD held us.
We have corrupt, wicked, selfish and greedy leaders, that is why our country is not progressing
Nigeria as a country is in the hands of God and only him can raise a Moses to deliver this nation. Our leaders are at one end committing all sorts of crimes, we the citizens are at the other end destroying ourselves. This change is an individual thing, it starts from within then extends to our outside world… When shall we learn Nigerians?
This country need the grace of God in our leaders to lead us well. We need to change individually in this country called Nigeria as the change starts from each individual.
Corruption is a cankerworm that has eaten deep into Nigeria both politically, economically, socially and waterview! It is time we rise to our fate,it is time we retrace our step or else Nigeria will fall on us.. I pray God help us in this forthcoming election to elect good leaders that will lead us in the right path…The situation in Nigeria now is very bad. Everything is falling apart on a daily basis and we the citizens seem to be silent about the situation. Things will only get worse since the people that are meant to talk remain silent.
Aunty Edith, this poem is a bomb and really rhetorical. But the question is if we as questions, who then will hear us, for the voice of the masses has been trampled upon.
This is a little like a poem I read which is called “Vanity”. I liked the way the poem brought light to the activities of the so called problem solvers who were elected into the government. It also left a statement to those that are blindly and openly ignoring the activities of those they elected. The poem can be said to be a satirical poem as it condemns the wrong doings of the people and also advising them to wake up from their slumber and do the right thing. Its a very interesting poem
I feel the problem is from the masses because we give them a reason to be corrupt . we collect gifts and money during campaign what do we expect. The power to change Nigeria lies with the citizens because when we stop supporting corrupt leaders I believe corruption will be greatly reduced.
Seriously ma, Nigeria needs our help and that of God.
But how can we fight corruption whereas we, fighting the caption “corruption”,is 100 times corrupt.
For we to actualise change is all by the help of God, because under human capacity it’s can’t, because from the onset, from the military regime down to this present age, “change”has been one of their top manifestos but was never actualise.
WE NEED GOD!!!!!!!
this is a good suggestion not to bring back the vipers who failed to fulfill their promised change
It is no longer the economic situation of the country that we are facing now, rather it’s the government in particular. Although it is still part of it. It is only in Nigeria that such an irresponsible government will be elected and the people will still be planning to blindly vote for the same government into the next tenure of office, encouraging bad leadership and worsening their situation. It is obvious that the people have politically blundered, but there is still hope as God said that he makes the wise man mad and turns the hearts of kings. I vehemently believe that he is capable of calming the storms in Nigeria. So let us not kowtow to this Nigerian government, rather let us seek after Gods’ will through prayers and faith which is the substance of all things hoped for. Thank you for this wonderful poem, with tears hoping for something better.
Nigeria can never be better unless the government is changed. The government are corrupted, how can they rule well?
Thank you aunty for this informative and thoughtful opinion piece and poem. Nigeria’s situation is one that will try the faith of every person of different categories and perceptions . But we would keep fighting both in prayers and every other ways .
I think our problem in Nigeria is spiritual, because these same people have been ruling us since ages and there’s no change, but one thing is for sure, God hears our prayers day and night and one day he will rescue us like he did for the people of Isreal
Sometimes I have some crazy thoughts about ways Nigeria can move forward, one of which is: For Nigeria to move forward we need to sieve out those corrupt old political vipers, just like Ghana did, we need to kill all those corrupt leaders and start afresh with creative and young minds……… That’s my thought though.
” In an ideal society let the political thinker rule.” Aristotle said. The politicians we have in Nigeria are people who know nothing about governance. The political manifestos which they promise the innocent masses; they never fulfill it. I know they buy our votes in this country. If we will make this politicians accountable to the masses, the public should stop selling their votes.
The way forward is moving forward. For Nigeria to move forward we need to keep going and we God on our side our country shall begin to dazzle.
It’s high time we behave like rational people and not just like kids still bathing their stomach, it’s time we stop giving an ear to fake promises as if we are reading folktale. Let’s sit up to our responsibility and pray that God being God will look into the affairs of this country .This poem serves as a call on Nigerians to bury the political careers of their discredited leaders, that’s those leaders that didn’t perform absolutely well should be forgone and disregarded.
Change change change change, indeed. Enough bloodshed everywhere, Herdsmen, Boko Haram extreme wickedness, change indeed. They will hastily and punitively remove the scales from other people’s eyes but they fail to consider their own eyes first. Politics is a complex game and for the fact that it is a game, there are so many things involved. Like they say “no permanent friend or enemy in politics”, so any help you can get to continue in power, you hastily make friends with that source. And besides, it is the “ruled” that see politics as a way of producing leaders that are responsible or craves for development. But the players (i.e the politicians) point of view is different although not all. Most politicians just play to be on top, any other thing about the society or development might come as an advice from the society.
Power is intoxicating that’s why the hunger for power is insatiable. The problem has always been the recycling of the same old and corrupt politicians every year. We can’t be doing the same thing and expect a different result. Let’s keep our fingers crossed and our hopes alive.
Yes I agree with you ma, this administration have being biased with the fight against corruption and have being protecting those corrupt men that run to their party.
And this administration also fail to adhere to the tenets of the constitution though he promise to change this second tenure,so let watch and see.
“And when Elections are due again, invite back the same brood of vipers” this line reeks of pure fact and reality. It’s really sad I must say, after complaining of their evil ways, they are still voted back.
They try all means to maneuver their evil deeds. I just hope for a better Nigeria. It will be well
It will only take a grace from God not from an old or young leader to fix this country as people often say they should give youths chance to rule.
What about those collecting money from our leader to exercise their franchise on their political parties.Are they not youths?Think about it,what now will happen when they get to that seat?
Lets pray to Gods intervention to change this country not APC.
Ahhh… Invite the vipers? This one flog me ooo
I’m wondering, is our problem leadership? Or our system is just bad! Is it that we don’t have leaders who think differently or see differently? Why must it still be the same story told again and, again?
I strongly have faith in our youths of today, God would raise up men with a difference!
Same ineffective leaders who promised heaven and earth to make this country a better place for the “future leaders of tomorrow” decades ago are same who are still tussling for power amongst themselves after having proven their impotence.
I think it’s time for those “leaders of tomorrow” to take their destinies in their hands from these power hungry selfish individuals.
Nigeria needs to be United if we must fight corruption and it start from personal effort on individual first.
Human being is gullible to belief promises in time if distress. This is just what happens when the country is in chaos. They will be looking for a way out and will cling to anyone promising heavens. Nigerians should learn not to rely on government to make the rely on us much more than we do during elections. I believe we can be better.
Even without mention Nigeria in that poem. One will know you are talking about Nigeria ma. Enough is a enough for this non sense in our nation. May the Lord come to our aid.
Nigeria truly needs leaders. We have been pushed backward for too long and it looks like there’s no hope again. It’s a pity that no matter how you educate the public on bad leadership, people still blindly follow corrupt politicians because of money. I pray God doesn’t forsake me and my family.
Amen in Jesus’ name.
“… despising the lady with scales who their avengement halts.”
Indeed and now it seems that her scales have been overridden by them.
So sad!
With gladness in my heart , I can say that this is no longer the case in Nigeria. At least, a good number of Nigerians are now aware of the implications of voting in ‘same brood of vipers’. Since the history of Nigeria, Nigerians have never been this politically awake. The amnesia is now fading. Most Nigerians now know the essence of voting wisely and that the people or persons they vote will influence their lives socially, financially, religiously and so on. Social media has played a great role in the enlightenment of the citizens (especially those who are not educated). We hope and pray that the forth coming elections of 2023 will mark the beginning of actual change in our beloved country, Nigeria.
Its a very interesting poem and one that is rich too. It is a call to Nigerians to fight corruption and actualise change..