What Is The Celebration For? -By Yahuza Abdulkadir

It has been six decades since Nigeria got her independence from British colonial masters. For many Nigerians, it was a dream come true and the dawn of a new era. Even though some people thought ‘Independence came far too early’

I can vividly recall those days in primary school when we will be matching to the stadium for the celebration of independence anniversary. Then we will be singing songs of freedom, hope, peace and unity.

However, I know that independence didn’t come easy. It has been a lot of sacrifices made and teaming efforts of some Nigerians whom today we regarded as national heroes. These great people can never be forgotten, it’s their labour which made independence possible. On this day, we celebrate them and may their souls continue to rest in peace.

This year makes it 61 years of Nigeria’s independence and looking towards what the country is falling into, I don’t think we are ready to celebrate. Are we? Where is the independence? When there is no freedom and justice for the less privileges. Are we going to celebrate the abduction of our parents and siblings? Are we going to celebrate the massacring of innocent souls in the streets? What is the celebration for? Bad governance? Corruption? Nepotism? Insecurity? Ethnic, religion and region crisis? Poverty or unemployment of youths?

What is the celebration for when we are not sure of our safety when traveling on the roads of Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara and other parts of the country because when we do, ransom will knock on the doors of our family.

What is the celebration for when terrorists can be forgiven and have a privilege to enjoy a life which is far better than that of the people whom were affected by their acts of terrorism.

What is the celebration for when Adamu and Jacob have no respect and zero tolerance for each other’s religion.

I don’t think this celebration will worth it if the Fulani herdsmen and farmers are still fighting and killing one another for a mere piece of land.

I don’t think this celebration will worth if ASUU and the federal government are still playing a match in order to decide the future of Nigerian students.

I don’t think this celebration will worth if iPhone and iPads will be shared as souvenirs at the wedding ceremony of the President’s son when the masses are roaming the streets with hunger and poverty written on their faces.

We can only celebrate, when there is love for one another in our hearts, when we will be united to live in peace and harmony, when we will enjoy the dividends of democracy.

I still have hope that events could change for the better in Nigeria.