Open Letter to Nigerians by Yomi Olalere

Fellow Compatriots!

First, I would like to remind everyone the reason why we are here. We are here because we want a new Nigeria – a Nigeria where prosperity is shared and security is assured; A country where issues of poverty are addressed, and education of our citizens is prioritized. We are here because we want a nation where equality becomes a norm, and nepotism becomes a practice of the past. For far too long Nigerians have been subjected to harsh socio-economic punishments, we have become prisoners and slaves in our own country, totally enslaved by our elected politicians.

We are here to say enough is enough! We must stand together, united, focused and undeterred to reclaim the lost glory of our dear nation; not by an act of violence, or hooliganism, but by peaceful demonstration and intelligent maneuvering. We cannot attain our desired change by blocking the roads, burning tires, or hurting ourselves. No meaningful change can be attained out of violence, but our change movement must be championed through our voice and vote. Voice out and Vote them out!

Perhaps, we must understand how we arrived at this crossroad, to fully comprehend the state of our union. The problem we face today is as a result of long -standing, decades-long collapse in corporate and public governance, greed, flaunting ostentatious lifestyle on the back of the masses, lack of accountability, and corrupt practices.

The actions of our elected leaders and non-elected leaders have dented the image of our nation, and continues to hinder the progress of many of our brothers and sisters sojourning abroad. Nigerians, we are better than this! We can change the image of corruption, turn around the depressing and sorry state of our country and  attain our goals of a perfect union if we are willing to work for it and be passionate about it.

Indubitably, our road will be long, the journey will feel sometimes lonely, even in the midst of the mob, but the end must be our focus. The end of our change movement must address the quality of leaders we elect to serve us. It must provide hope for those feeling hopeless, It must help those children who desire education but have no means, It must reignite our sense of patriotism,  It must end divisions and put a stop to sectarian war.

This nation has been called different names; we have been labeled by many; to many, this nation cannot be united. But I’ve got news for them! Today, this is not PDP, ADP, APP, or anything that has combinations of ‘A’ or ‘P’, this is the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This is a great nation with great people, seeking great leaders.

Fellow compatriots, we must not be defined by our problems or predicaments, but by our resilience, hard work, aspirations, and hope for a better and more prosperous Nigeria. ‘Be the change you project to see,’ said the great scholar. We must admit changing. We must subscribe to accountability and transparency. Our actions must attract others to openness, equality, and shared responsibilities. We must remain compassionate on our fellow brothers and sisters, as we navigate through this long journey of change. The change we seek today must not be viewed as a slogan, but as an instrument of action, capable of restoring the hope of the downtrodden, neglected and forgotten.

Fellow Nigerians, can we save this country? Can we restore the dream of our forefathers?  Can we rescue this nation from howling wilderness? I say to you today friend, our collective actions can bring back the lost glory. And Our willingness can take this nation to the pinnacle of her destiny. Let us reject impossibilities, division, and apathy.

It is not the time for dispassion, indifferent or lethargy; it is time to plant a seed, whose shed we shall not live in (Chinese proverb).  Our moment to reject the old tactics of fear, while we embrace an open system of peaceful dialogue, active participation, and inclusiveness.

Do we want a different Nigeria where our citizens are respected, a nation where rule of law is equally enforced, where we dream of a state where unemployment is not as pressing as it is today?. Do we desire an environment free of toxins and other environmental hazards? How about a better health care, and education that reflects the demand of the 21^st century? Are we ready to roll up our sleeves to possess our possessions? Are we ready to obey the call of Nigeria? If you say yes, to any those, then it’s time to brace up, it’s time to use your voice and your democratic power of voting. The last dozens of years must be different from the next scores of years.

This is our time, this is our moment,  it must not elude us or pass us by. It is time to elect leaders that will work for us, not against us; a leader that reflects our daily struggles, and understands the plight of a common man. It is time to hold all our elected officials accountable. It is time to inform them that public office is not for profit, but an enabling environment to show leadership by service. If you are ready to make a change, voice out. And lets together, remind corrupt leaders and followers their days are numbered and their time is over.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Note: This opinion is totally that of the writer of this article.  It does not in anyway intend to support one party or association over the other. Please read and share!