Securing Nigeria's Independence

by Nnorom Azuonye

All Nigerians have something they would very much like to say, or need to say, about the imminent 50th anniversary celebrations of Nigeria's independence from Britain. Social networking sites such as Facebook and blogs have afforded everyone an unrestricted voice to say exactly what they feel without the sactions of an editor, or power.

Clearly, most Nigerians are not convinced that their country has anything to celebrate. Many believe that these highly hyped celebrations will only provide an avenue for further plundering of the country's already over-plundered resources. Many have questioned the wisdom of spending an estimated ten billion Naira to celebrate 50 years of independence in a country where hospitals don't work, school buildings are dilapidated, unemployment is at an all-time high, the political system is in chaos and public institutions have lost their way. What is more, security of life and property in Nigeria now is a concept that exists only in creative visualisations. These realities do not describe an independent nation, they are about a people bondaged by terror.

As a country, Nigeria could not possibly consider herself an independent nation worthy of celebration if her citizens cannot feel safe within their own country. This is the biggest challenge Nigeria faces today; the security of her citizens; the freedom to go about their daily businesses without the fear of being waylaid by armed robbers, kidnapped by the new businessmen of the Niger Delta and Imo-Abia axis, or murdered by political or business associates or opponents, especially those ex-military rapists of democracy who still retain access to their homicidal thugs, those same people who violated and derailed Nigeria's political journey, but have retained their psychopathic lust for power.

As we continue with the countdown to October 1, 2010, we must all channel our energies in prayer for the leaders of Nigeria to find a way out of the quandary of terror in which the Nigerian ship in caught. This is the only way forward. A secure Nigeria will translate into greater international investment in the Nigerian economy. A secure Nigeria will translate into more bountiful innovations by Nigerian nationals in all spheres of life and business in Nigeria.

At the moment, Nigeria only has independence from Britain, but she is yet to secure her independence, especially from some of her own recusant, deranged offspring.