I want to reflect on something that deeply troubles me. One of the benefits of pursuing a Master’s in Public Administration at the age of 56, after years of medical practice, is that I learned the importance of having a theoretical framework when analyzing any issue. In Greek philosophy, society is categorized into three types of people: idiots, tribalists, and citizens.
Idiots are those who disrespect the rules and don’t care about the consequences of their actions on society. Tribalists are those who view everything through the lens of their tribe, political party, religion, or any association they belong to. Citizens, on the other hand, have the interest of their nation, society, and humanity at heart. Sadly, in Nigeria, idiocy and tribalism often overshadow citizenship.
Recently, I saw a post by VeryDarkMan about Yahaya Bello and his alleged ₦80 billion fraud case with the EFCC. What shocked me was a young girl attacking VeryDarkMan in defense of Yahaya Bello, claiming that the money wasn’t from her state, so it wasn’t her concern. It was an illogical argument, but unfortunately, this is the reality in Nigeria—people are quick to defend tribal and political affiliations, even when it’s clear that their actions harm society.
It got worse. Today, I saw a press conference by an association of Kogi State indigenes, appealing to President Tinubu to stop the EFCC from “persecuting” Yahaya Bello. Their reasoning? Bello stood by the president during the elections, so he should be rewarded with immunity, even if he allegedly embezzled ₦80 billion. This is the height of tribalism, where loyalty to a person or party supersedes the pursuit of justice.
What kind of country are we building when citizens defend criminals simply because they share the same tribe, religion, or political party? The citizenship of this country is being overwhelmed by idiots and tribalists, and it’s disheartening. While we often blame leadership for our problems, the idiocy, stupidity, and tribalism of the general population are just as dangerous.
This brings me to the EFCC itself. What kind of game are they playing? Yahaya Bello came to their office, then left. Later, there was an exchange of gunfire at the place he was staying. When will we take the fight against corruption seriously?
The state of citizenship in this country is tragic. When I interact with some people, I can feel the lack of values. They will tolerate anything, celebrate criminality, and support evil as long as it benefits them or their tribe. It’s terrifying. When idiots and tribalists try to drown out the voices of true citizens, we must not let them succeed.
As I continue this reflection, I can’t help but think of Pastor It’s Well, who has been bedridden for ten years after an accident left him with two broken thigh bones. His denomination has abandoned him. Yet, people from various tribes and religions have been donating to help him. But where is his church? How can we call ourselves a Christian society if we abandon our own?
Pastor It’s Well’s surgery will cost ₦21.4 million. I’ve raised ₦6 million so far, but we still need ₦15.4 million to cover the rest. I wept when I heard the cost because, in a just society, this wouldn’t be an issue. A nation with good healthcare and social justice wouldn’t leave someone like him to suffer for ten years. The church should step up and cover his medical bills, yet nothing has come from his denomination.
In the past, missionary hospitals like the Baptist Hospital, Bishop Shanahan Hospital, and Catholic hospitals played a vital role in healthcare. But today, we’re more focused on building campsites and massive auditoriums. Meanwhile, a simple surgery for a missionary pastor has become a source of public shame. We need to reflect on our priorities as the body of Christ.
Please, I urge you to join me in raising funds for Pastor It’s Well. Let’s restore dignity to the body of Christ. We still need about ₦15.4 million for his surgery. Let’s not use people like tissue paper, discarding them when they are no longer useful. I remain Dr. Charles Apoki, a citizen who believes in a better Nigeria.
