Compliments of the season. I am Dr. Charles Apoki, an Urhobo man from the Ani-Moni clan in the Urhobo Nation. I am a proud son of Otokutu, a community with a rich heritage and values. Today, I speak as someone deeply rooted in this land, someone who has seen the transformation of Otokutu from a small, inaccessible community to an urbanized hub. I must voice my concerns about the growing criminality and erosion of values in our beloved community.
A Glimpse Into Otokutu’s Past
Otokutu was once a peaceful, remote place, reachable only through challenging routes. My family has strong ties to this land—a street is even named after my grandfather. The community’s transformation began with the construction of the Otokutu Bridge, which brought urbanization and, unfortunately, an erosion of our traditional values. In the past, our people were known for their industriousness, strict moral standards, and a culture that celebrated decency and hard work. Songs from festivals were used to shame wrongdoers and reinforce societal norms.
Our elders instilled in us the principle that an Urhobo man is a person of decency and integrity. “We don’t take nonsense,” my father would say. We didn’t bring home what wasn’t ours, and everyone was held accountable. Churches like the African Church, which is over 100 years old in Otokutu, played a significant role in shaping our moral compass.
The Current State of Affairs
However, the Otokutu of today is plagued by internet fraud, drug abuse, and a culture of conspicuous consumption. Suburban communities like ours, with access to electricity but minimal police presence, have become hotspots for these vices. A recent incident involving a murderer under the Otokutu Bridge, though not a native of our community, has cast a shadow over us. Similarly, young people involved in internet fraud have tarnished our name.
What’s worse is the societal acceptance of these wrongdoers. Fraudsters are celebrated in churches and communities, throwing money at ceremonies and turning criminality into a spectacle. Parents even encourage their children to pursue fraudulent activities, taking them to “yahoo-yahoo” kingpins for mentorship. This acceptance and celebration of ill-gotten wealth is a betrayal of our values.
The Need for a New Direction
This growing tolerance for evil must stop. We must condemn criminality and conspicuous consumption, not just in Otokutu but across all communities in the Niger Delta and Nigeria. As the Igbo say, “When an evil persists for more than two years, it becomes a tradition.” We cannot allow criminality to become our tradition.
Instead, we must champion the values of hard work, integrity, and legitimate wealth creation. When I share testimonies of how God has blessed me through legitimate means, it’s to inspire younger generations. Education, diligence, and faith can elevate anyone to global recognition without resorting to crime.
Actionable Steps for Change
To address these issues, I propose the following:
Establish a Police Station in Otokutu: Increased security will deter criminal activities.
Community Vigilance: The President General and the community executive must prioritize security and cultural reorientation.
Youth Mentorship: Teach our youths the values of integrity and hard work. For instance, I actively share my journey of rising from humble beginnings to success.
Skill Acquisition Programs: Through the Salimo-Wits Foundation, we’ve taught skills like phone repairs, baking, bead-making, and more. These programs have transformed lives and communities, even increasing church incomes significantly.
Zero Tolerance for Criminality: We must stop celebrating fraudsters and ensure they face the consequences of their actions.
A Call to Action
To my fellow Otokutu residents and all Nigerians, it is not those exposing the criminality in our community who tarnish our name; it is the criminals themselves. We must stand together and reject these vices. Let us reclaim our heritage of integrity and decency.
I remain a proud son of Otokutu, a man of integrity, and a believer in the transformative power of education and hard work. Join me in shaping a future where our youths can thrive legitimately, and our communities can flourish without the stain of criminality.
God bless Otokutu, the Urhobo Nation, and Nigeria.
For inquiries about my upcoming webinar, “Hitting the Ground Running Financially in 2025,” or our property offers, contact us. Together, let’s build a better tomorrow.
