Some interesting developments occurred amidst the protests. Firstly, in Gombe State, some protesters looted materials from various places. They were apprehended by citizens of the state. In fact, citizen arrests were made, and I saw people rolling a large tank of water back to the police station. They also returned TV sets, generators, and other items that had been taken. This demonstrates the true spirit of Nigerians. We are really good people, but unfortunately, our leaders are wicked and push our people to the edge. The number of decent Nigerians far exceeds the number of criminals among us.
Someone was discussing insecurity in Nigeria, and I told her that the chances of being shot in Baltimore are higher than in Inu. The likelihood of an American policeman harassing or shooting a black man is significantly greater in the U.S. than in Nigeria. Despite its issues, Nigeria is a good country; the problem lies with our unintelligent leadership.
I saw an elderly woman in Delta State, her hair completely gray, carrying leaves and dancing to protest against hunger. This woman must be over 90 years old. I also saw women with their babies on their backs protesting and a disabled man, using flip-flops as makeshift crutches, protesting in one of the northern states. These instances highlight the extent to which our people are oppressed, depressed, and angry.
In Lagos, I saw policemen distributing sachets of water to protesters, which was wonderful. We can be good if we choose to be. However, I also witnessed two policemen in the northern states pulling a disabled person from his wheelchair. The man was wearing a coat, and the officers struggled with him. If he had strong legs and joined the police, he might have advanced further than those who were dragging him. Until we learn to respect one another, acknowledge the feelings and anger of people, and honor their visions for this country, there can be no peace or progress.
One of the local government chairmen provided water and even a live band at the protest venue. He did his best, but the people did not want to be confined. I approached a policeman and thanked him for not shooting at people. The officer’s leader told me, “We all are feeling this pain; we just don’t want destruction.” There is a lot going on in this country, but there is hope. I hope our leaders will listen to the cries of the people.
I will create a series of videos in different locations to propose solutions and highlight the low-hanging fruits that the administration could harness to bring development to this country. It doesn’t require rocket science, but unfortunately, our leaders are surrounded by people who demand very little from them. There is a song that goes, “Sing your song, Sweet Music Man.” When you surround yourself with people who demand nothing and view governance as a circus, you are bound to crash.
May God bless our wonderful country. May God bless all those of goodwill, particularly those in Gombe State who arrested the looters and returned the stolen items to the police station. May God bless those governors who have done well, and may their people respect their opinions and appeals. May God raise good leaders in this country. We definitely cannot continue like this.
I saw a video from Venezuela where the currency had depreciated so much that people were dumping it in trucks and dumpsters. The Argentine economy has not recovered since its currency collapsed due to bad leadership, and Zimbabwe has yet to recover from years of misrule under Robert Mugabe. People are playing with your destinies and futures. Those who spoke rubbish during the elections should reflect on this. How’s the market?
Dr. Charles Apoki. I am your friend. God bless you.
