Extinguished Hope: Preventable Tragedies and the Need for Societal Change in Nigeria
Updated on : Friday, 20 December, 2024
Released on: Wednesday, 18 December, 2024
Read (347) |
Join BOOT Party
Tweet #VoteBOOTParty
The heart-breaking news of dozens of children losing their lives in a stampede at a Children's Funfair in Ibadan is a sombre reminder of our collective failure as a society. While both federal and state governments have promised an investigation, many agree that such a calamity was avoidable. My deepest condolences go to the grieving families and to the people and government of Oyo State during what should have been a joyous season.
An incident still vivid in our minds occurred in October when an overturned fuel tanker exploded in Jigawa, claiming the lives of at least 150 people. Tragically, these individuals had gathered at the accident site to collect leaking petrol. Such a devastating loss of life could have been prevented. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased.
These tragedy exposed a stark truth about contemporary Nigeria: the youngest and most vulnerable among us are increasingly at risk. Chaos and corruption have become the de-facto systems through which our society operates and bequeathed to the current and future generations, creating an environment that neglects the very future we claim to protect.
For these children and many, their hopes were not renewed but extinguished, and it is imperative that justice is served—both through criminal charges and adequate compensation for the affected families.
THE UNSAFE REALITIES OF PUBLIC SPACES
These incidents highlight how unsafe public spaces can be for children, the elderly, and physically challenged individuals. Our public infrastructure and lifestyle are riddled with disorder, making it nearly impossible for vulnerable groups to access or enjoy these facilities. I was reminded of this during a visit to Abuja, where I saw a young boy waiting at a zebra crossing as cars sped by, ignoring traffic lights. After waiting in vain, the boy risked his life by dashing across the road.
Similarly, during visits to other parts of the country, I witnessed elderly people struggling to cross, poorly maintained, roads. Such scenes are symptomatic of a deeper issue: the systemic neglect of public safety and the erosion of basic societal order.
A CULTURE OF CORRUPTION
The problems extend beyond public spaces. A recent viral video captured the Ebonyi State governor apprehending a public officer stealing government property—a shocking yet familiar display of corruption. Such incidents reflect a widespread culture of theft and mismanagement within ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) across Nigeria. This pervasive corruption erodes public trust and undermines governance.
Addressing these systemic failures requires more than punitive measures. We must confront the root causes: lack of accountability, insufficient oversight, and societal tolerance for corruption.
THE ROLE OF EDUCATION IN ADDRESSING CORRUPTION
Long-term solutions must prioritize education and value reorientation. Anti-corruption education should be integrated into the school curriculum from primary to secondary levels, spearheaded by the National Orientation Agency and the Ministry of Education. This will equip future generations with a strong sense of ethical responsibility and an understanding of the detrimental effects of corruption on societal development.
Schools must also emphasize order and respect for authority. Teachers, as the first authority figures outside the home, have a unique role in shaping students' understanding of societal norms. Reinforcing the importance of obeying laws can bridge the gap between theoretical lessons and real-life behaviour.
TEACHING LAW AND ORDER
Traffic regulations provide a simple yet profound example of the importance of law and order. Traffic lights, far from being mere public furnishings, serves as artefacts of law and obedience. When motorists comply with traffic signals, they demonstrate respect for the rule of law. Conversely, violating these laws sends a harmful message to children, who are keen observers of adult behaviour.
For many children, roads are their first interaction with societal laws. Witnessing rampant disregard for traffic regulations creates a distorted view of governance, normalizing indiscipline. Breaking this cycle is critical to instilling values of accountability and orderliness in the next generation.
BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN TEACHING AND PRACTICE
The disconnect between what is taught in schools and what is practiced in society is a significant barrier to progress. Parents, educators, and public officials must work together to model positive behaviours that reflect honesty, respect for laws, and accountability. Creating an environment where ethical behaviour is the norm requires more than punishment—it demands a cultural shift.
A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY
As citizens, we all have a role in shaping the current and next generations. Supporting initiatives that promote integrity, holding ourselves accountable, and leading by example are crucial steps toward building a society that values law, order, and mutual respect. Through consistent education and a commitment to ethical practices, we can create a brighter, more equitable future for all Nigerians.
Thank you and God bless you and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Yours sincerely,
@SonnyAdenuga
The BOOT Party is a cooperative-like political leadership system.
@TheBOOTParty
Send Feedback
WhatsApp: +234-705-774-9595
Signing up is free.
Join BOOT Party and Get Involved!
Download BOOT Party App to
Vote in BOOT Party Election Primaries
Donate Because Nigeria Matters
Extinguished Hope: Preventable Tragedies and the Need for Societal Change in Nigeria
Updated on : Friday, 20 December, 2024
Released on: Wednesday, 18 December, 2024
Read (347) |
Join BOOT Party
Tweet #VoteBOOTParty
The heart-breaking news of dozens of children losing their lives in a stampede at a Children's Funfair in Ibadan is a sombre reminder of our collective failure as a society. While both federal and state governments have promised an investigation, many agree that such a calamity was avoidable. My deepest condolences go to the grieving families and to the people and government of Oyo State during what should have been a joyous season.
An incident still vivid in our minds occurred in October when an overturned fuel tanker exploded in Jigawa, claiming the lives of at least 150 people. Tragically, these individuals had gathered at the accident site to collect leaking petrol. Such a devastating loss of life could have been prevented. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased.
These tragedy exposed a stark truth about contemporary Nigeria: the youngest and most vulnerable among us are increasingly at risk. Chaos and corruption have become the de-facto systems through which our society operates and bequeathed to the current and future generations, creating an environment that neglects the very future we claim to protect.
For these children and many, their hopes were not renewed but extinguished, and it is imperative that justice is served—both through criminal charges and adequate compensation for the affected families.
THE UNSAFE REALITIES OF PUBLIC SPACES
These incidents highlight how unsafe public spaces can be for children, the elderly, and physically challenged individuals. Our public infrastructure and lifestyle are riddled with disorder, making it nearly impossible for vulnerable groups to access or enjoy these facilities. I was reminded of this during a visit to Abuja, where I saw a young boy waiting at a zebra crossing as cars sped by, ignoring traffic lights. After waiting in vain, the boy risked his life by dashing across the road.
Similarly, during visits to other parts of the country, I witnessed elderly people struggling to cross, poorly maintained, roads. Such scenes are symptomatic of a deeper issue: the systemic neglect of public safety and the erosion of basic societal order.
A CULTURE OF CORRUPTION
The problems extend beyond public spaces. A recent viral video captured the Ebonyi State governor apprehending a public officer stealing government property—a shocking yet familiar display of corruption. Such incidents reflect a widespread culture of theft and mismanagement within ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) across Nigeria. This pervasive corruption erodes public trust and undermines governance.
Addressing these systemic failures requires more than punitive measures. We must confront the root causes: lack of accountability, insufficient oversight, and societal tolerance for corruption.
THE ROLE OF EDUCATION IN ADDRESSING CORRUPTION
Long-term solutions must prioritize education and value reorientation. Anti-corruption education should be integrated into the school curriculum from primary to secondary levels, spearheaded by the National Orientation Agency and the Ministry of Education. This will equip future generations with a strong sense of ethical responsibility and an understanding of the detrimental effects of corruption on societal development.
Schools must also emphasize order and respect for authority. Teachers, as the first authority figures outside the home, have a unique role in shaping students' understanding of societal norms. Reinforcing the importance of obeying laws can bridge the gap between theoretical lessons and real-life behaviour.
TEACHING LAW AND ORDER
Traffic regulations provide a simple yet profound example of the importance of law and order. Traffic lights, far from being mere public furnishings, serves as artefacts of law and obedience. When motorists comply with traffic signals, they demonstrate respect for the rule of law. Conversely, violating these laws sends a harmful message to children, who are keen observers of adult behaviour.
For many children, roads are their first interaction with societal laws. Witnessing rampant disregard for traffic regulations creates a distorted view of governance, normalizing indiscipline. Breaking this cycle is critical to instilling values of accountability and orderliness in the next generation.
BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN TEACHING AND PRACTICE
The disconnect between what is taught in schools and what is practiced in society is a significant barrier to progress. Parents, educators, and public officials must work together to model positive behaviours that reflect honesty, respect for laws, and accountability. Creating an environment where ethical behaviour is the norm requires more than punishment—it demands a cultural shift.
A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY
As citizens, we all have a role in shaping the current and next generations. Supporting initiatives that promote integrity, holding ourselves accountable, and leading by example are crucial steps toward building a society that values law, order, and mutual respect. Through consistent education and a commitment to ethical practices, we can create a brighter, more equitable future for all Nigerians.
Thank you and God bless you and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Yours sincerely,
@SonnyAdenuga
The BOOT Party is a cooperative-like political leadership system.
@TheBOOTParty
Send Feedback
WhatsApp: +234-705-774-9595
Signing up is free.
Join BOOT Party and Get Involved!
Download BOOT Party App to
Vote in BOOT Party Election Primaries
Donate Because Nigeria Matters