This topic may annoy some of you, but it’s important to confront the truth. In society, the poor often pay the price, while the rich, the elite, and the oligarchy collect the prize.
Andrew Cuomo, the former governor of New York, once said that when things go wrong, the poor usually pay the highest price. This is evident in group thinking and group bias, which I have studied extensively throughout my 66 years. As I approach old age, I have observed how these dynamics play out.
Group Thinking: The Poor Fight for the Rich
Consider how the poor often take up the causes of the rich. In Yorubaland, it’s the poor who carry the Yoruba nation agitation on their heads. In Biafra, you rarely see a wealthy Igbo man promoting the movement because he needs a united Nigeria for his businesses. The rich dine across ethnic and political lines, while the poor fight for them.
Similarly, the children of the rich are not the ones in the forests as nomadic herders. The elite own the cows; the poor risk their lives for them. In sports, fans argue and fight over their favorite teams, but it’s the players and shareholders who reap the financial benefits.
The same group bias exists in religion. Some people fiercely defend their denominations, yet churches don’t pay pensions to members. If you’re admitted to a church hospital, you’ll still pay. Even schools owned by churches charge fees. Political affiliations are no different. Those who carry ballot boxes or face violence for their parties rarely receive compensation. If something happens to you, your family is often left to fend for themselves.
Plan for Your Future
In politics and social circles, people celebrate you when you’re in power or influential. However, once you’re out of office or no longer useful, they abandon you. The world moves on quickly, and if you haven’t planned for your future, you’ll be left behind.
When I used to travel around Nigeria teaching on wealth creation, I noticed that very few people followed up or even checked if I had returned home safely. My wife warned me to focus on building something for myself instead of solely teaching others.
Jacob in the Bible recognized the need to plan for his own future. You must do the same. The northern part of Nigeria has ruled the country for a significant time, yet poverty remains widespread there. Poverty knows no bias, and unless you take control of your future, you’ll remain stuck.
Build Your Own Economy
Even within families, everyone must have their own financial stability. I realized this when my children abandoned a solar power project we started together. I took over the project, ensuring I had electricity, water, and comfort. Additionally, I stopped joint business ventures with my wife to avoid friction. Today, I have my own economy and can enjoy life without stress.
Men, take special note. If you don’t plan for your future, you could be left behind if circumstances change. Women, too, must secure their futures. Build your own economy and avoid dependency on anyone.
Life Changes Over Time
Friendships and social groups evolve as people face their own challenges. Ten friends won’t remain ten friends for ten years. Health, finances, and distance will create separation. Plan for your future as if you are your own cooperative society. Invest in yourself.
Churches and denominations are not retirement plans. If you stop attending church because of disappointment, remember that your relationship is with God, not the institution. Churches don’t hold annual general meetings or share dividends. Your reward comes from God.
Final Thoughts
Extricate yourself from group bias and group thinking. Focus on planning for your life and your future. Your destiny is in your hands.
We also have properties for sale—invest in your future. God bless you!
