Nigeria is a country of contradictions, where arbitrariness thrives and order is a rarity. Reflecting on recent events, I am compelled to address the tragic death of a young EFCC officer in Enugu. His passing, during the line of duty, highlights the chaotic and often lawless nature of governance and authority in our nation.
First, let me extend my condolences to his family and the EFCC. This loss is not just theirs but a reflection of the systemic issues in our nation.
A Country of Predictable Unpredictability
Nigeria operates under what I call predictable unpredictability. Nothing functions as it should. Book a flight at 8 a.m., and by the time you get to the airport, it’s rescheduled for noon—or indefinitely delayed. This level of disorder affects every aspect of life, creating what scientists call entropy, or disorder, which ultimately leads to enthalpy, or heat—symbolic of frustration and chaos in the system.
This arbitrariness pervades governance, law enforcement, and even the basic functioning of society. It is a nation where random whims, rather than structured systems, dictate actions.
The Tragedy of Arbitrary Governance
The EFCC had issued a directive prohibiting night raids. If this order remains in effect, why were these operatives conducting a raid in the early hours of the morning in such a volatile region? Security agencies must adhere to their own rules to ensure safety and trust.
Arbitrariness doesn’t stop at governance. It is reflected in our judicial system and law enforcement. A civil case can suddenly be treated as a criminal matter, while clear criminal cases are dismissed without consequence. For example:
- A lawyer is handcuffed and dragged to court for a minor allegation.
- A man who dismembers a person is brought to the police station without handcuffs.
- Celebrities and influential figures evade justice for the same offenses for which others are harshly punished.
A Nation of Double Standards
This inconsistency breeds a dangerous culture. One citizen is persecuted for a minor infraction, while another is shielded by wealth or connections. The children of the rich flaunt their privilege, while the poor are treated as expendable.
The same arbitrariness extends to our economy. In a nation rich with crude oil, we hear absurd tales of importing crude for domestic refining. Prices are dictated arbitrarily, systems fail, and citizens bear the brunt of the disorder.
The Way Forward
For Nigeria to thrive, we must reject arbitrariness in every form. The following steps are crucial:
- Establish Order: Systems must be predictable, fair, and consistent.
- Accountability: Every citizen, regardless of wealth or status, must be held to the same standard.
- Rule of Law: Laws must be enforced impartially to inspire trust and respect.
The needless death of this young EFCC officer is a tragedy rooted in the arbitrariness of our nation. Until we prioritize order, accountability, and justice, such tragedies will persist.
May God bring order to our nation and comfort to the family of the fallen officer.
Dr. Charles Apoki, The Area Grandfather.
