REFLECTIONS ON NIGERIA: A CALL FOR COMPASSION AND UNITY

This past weekend, during a gathering with some friends, we found ourselves deeply engrossed in a discussion about the dire situation in Nigeria. The worsening condition of our beloved country is something we all acknowledge. It seems we are in consensus: Nigeria is in a state of crisis.

In reflecting on this, I expressed my belief that one of the primary reasons—if not the main one—for our predicament is the lack of mercy among us citizens. Nigerians are the problem of Nigeria. The Nigeria of today is the same as the Nigeria of yesterday, which people once hailed. However, today, we cry out in anguish over hunger and hardship on a daily basis. May Allah ease our affairs.

Among those being ruled, there is little to no mercy, and those ruling appear equally devoid of compassion towards those they govern. While we all agree that times are tough, we seem to forget that this is a shared struggle that requires a collective effort to overcome. Unfortunately, each of us is solely focused on our own survival. We disregard the hardships of others, even if our actions contribute to their suffering. Ironically, in our quest for survival, we encounter others who exhibit the same selfish tendencies. As a result, we find ourselves trapped in a vicious cycle of exploitation and indifference. Compassion was not only slaughtered but buried.

Do we see ourselves as one? No. Do we care for each other? No. How willing are we to sacrifice for one another? We are dealing with a problem that affects us all, yet we address it with a self-centered approach, treating a collective issue as a personal burden.

This pervasive lack of mercy has deeply affected our society. From the marketplace to the corridors of power, the absence of compassion has led to a breakdown in our social fabric. Traders inflate prices without considering the plight of their fellow citizens. Employers exploit their workers, offering wages that cannot sustain a decent living. Public servants embezzle funds meant for community development, leaving the masses to suffer in poverty. Leaders, elected to serve, prioritize their interests over the welfare of the people. This cycle of exploitation and neglect has created an environment where survival is the only concern, and the well-being of others is a secondary thought, if considered at all.

To break this cycle, we must rekindle the spirit of empathy and compassion. We need to recognize that our collective well-being is intertwined. When one person suffers, we all suffer. It is time to move beyond our self-centered approach and embrace a mindset of solidarity and mutual support.

Here are some steps we can take to foster a more compassionate society:

1. Promote Ethical Leadership: We need leaders who prioritize the welfare of the people over personal gain. Ethical leadership sets the tone for the rest of society, encouraging honesty, integrity, and a commitment to the common good.
2. Encourage Community Engagement: By participating in community activities and supporting local initiatives, we can strengthen our bonds and build a sense of collective responsibility. Volunteerism, neighbourhood associations, and community service projects are great ways to start.
3. Support Fair Trade Practices: As consumers, we should support businesses that treat their employees fairly and operate ethically. By choosing to buy from these businesses, we can encourage more companies to adopt fair trade practices.
4. Advocate for Social Justice: We must actively work towards a more just society by advocating for policies that address inequality and protect the vulnerable. This includes supporting initiatives that provide access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for all.
5. Foster a Culture of Kindness: Simple acts of kindness can go a long way in building a more compassionate society. Whether it's helping a neighbour, being considerate in our daily interactions, or supporting those in need, kindness can create a ripple effect that spreads throughout the community.
6. Educate for Empathy: Education systems should emphasize the importance of empathy and compassion. Teaching children and young adults the value of understanding and supporting others can help cultivate a more caring and connected society.
7. Reflect on Our Actions: Each of us should regularly reflect on our actions and consider how they impact others. By being mindful of our behaviour and striving to act with kindness and consideration, we can contribute to a more compassionate society.

Let us remember that we are all in this together. Our individual actions, when combined, can create a powerful force for change. By fostering a spirit of empathy and compassion, we can begin to heal the divisions in our society and work towards a brighter future for Nigeria. May Allah guide us and grant us the strength to act with mercy and justice in all our dealings.

Habeeb Olayinka Lawal

[email protected]

23rd June, 2024