It is indeed 66 years of independence. However, one would be tempted to ask: independent from what, exactly?
The country has not shown many signs of true independence since 1960, particularly since it returned to democracy in 1999.
I therefore want to implore every Nigerian citizen to reflect on what freedom and independence mean to them and reconcile those ideals with the reality we have today.
I recently came across a post by a man who was questioning whether Nigerians are a pest to the rest of the world, claiming that there is hardly a prison in the world where you would not find a Nigerian citizen.
Many have chosen to remain in prison in a foreign land rather than return home to their country, which, in my opinion, is a terrible choice. However, what this also shows is that people are desperately looking for ways to survive.
Our former heads of state have often preferred to travel abroad for medical treatment instead of building functional government institutions and healthcare systems at home.
It is important that we understand that many people have lost their lives, and continue to lose them, to insurgency and insecurity across the country.
Sincerely, Nigeria has become synonymous with difficult circumstances. Hence, you hear people say, “Nigeria has happened to me,” or “Make Nigeria no happen to you.”
It is indeed disheartening, and it should serve as a call for all of us to reflect on what we want as a people instead of celebrating nothingness.
I remember a time when people genuinely celebrated Independence Day. Nowadays, many barely remember what independence was meant to represent.
My dear fellow citizens, the Japanese rebuilt their country after being devastated by American atomic bombs. They did not spend all their lives complaining. Burkina Faso is attempting to do the same today. The Chinese did it as well, as have countless other nations.
It is very pertinent that we prioritise ourselves and understand that many of our leaders have failed to put the welfare of the people first. Our division, sycophancy, and tribal hatred only make matters worse.
If independence means the monopoly of businesses, if independence means insecurity and poverty, if independence means constant killing and incessant borrowing without corresponding production, then we are living in a delusion.
It would be a shame if, in the next 44 years, we find ourselves looking back at these terrible years with nostalgia and using them as a reference point for better times.
Nigerians are intelligent, resilient, and hardworking people. We all need to stand together and say NO to the gangsterism, corruption, and failures that have characterised our leadership.
Finally, as you celebrate, remember those who have unjustly lost their lives in the Nigerian project; remember the dreams that were cut short and those that never had the opportunity to materialise.
Until we wake up and decide to vote wisely to rescue our land,
I remain your friend and brother,
Maazi Onuora Obodoechi.
