I Weep for Nigeria: Ogbomosho on my Mind
My name is Amb. Anderson Osiebe. I am Urhobo by tribe, from Delta State, while my mother is Igbo, from Anambra State.
I was born in Nsukka, Enugu State, but I grew up in Kaduna State. I had my primary and secondary education in Kaduna, before proceeding to Bida, Niger State, for my tertiary education.
Having lived over three decades of my life in Northern Nigeria, I can boldly say that growing up in the North was one of the greatest experiences of my life.
The North was known for hospitality, unity, tolerance, respect for culture, and peaceful coexistence. In fact, I have always believed that Northern Nigeria remains one of the best places to live in this country.
But sadly, that belief and trust are gradually fading because of the frightening level of insecurity ravaging the region today.
The Northerners I grew up with were not known for violence, terrorism, banditry, or kidnapping.
The people I knew valued peace, family, hard work, and community living. So, one cannot help but ask: what exactly is happening to Northern Nigeria today?
Who are these bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers terrorizing innocent citizens daily?
What exactly is their mission in Nigeria? Who is sponsoring them, and why?
These are questions begging for urgent answers.
As someone married to a Northerner (Plateau), with Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, and Igala relatives and cousins, I see Nigeria beyond ethnicity or religion.
Nigeria is home to all of us. Our diversity was supposed to be our greatest strength, not the reason for our destruction.
Sadly, today, from Ogbomosho to Kwara, from Plateau to Benue, from Imo to Anambra, and down to Maiduguri, insecurity has become the order of the day.
Kidnapping, banditry, terrorism, and senseless killings have become recurring headlines.
Communities are living in fear. Farmers can no longer go to their farms safely. Travelers are afraid of highways. Parents sleep with one eye open, uncertain of what tomorrow may bring.
Yet, we seem to have a government that often acts as though all is well.
From my findings and engagements as a high-profile parliamentary advocate and journalist, there is indeed fire on the mountain.
Nigeria is gradually drifting into a dangerous situation that demands sincerity, patriotism, and decisive leadership.
This is not the Nigeria our forefathers handed over to us.
This is not the Nigeria millions dreamed of.
A nation blessed with enormous human and natural resources should not become a land dominated by fear, bloodshed, and uncertainty.
The time has come for Nigerians to rise above politics, tribe, and religion, and begin to ask hard questions about the future of our country. We must demand accountability, security, justice, and leadership that genuinely prioritizes the lives and welfare of citizens.
Nigeria belongs to all of us, and if we remain silent while insecurity consumes the land, history may never forgive us.
Once again, I weep for Nigeria.
However, God bless
Nigeria!
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