Born to rule syndrome?
In present Nigeria, one would not end a healthy political discussions with persons from the South-South of the Country, without them accusing that the North, or what they amusingly called the Hausa-Fulani, of having 'born to rule syndrome '. Most times, I try to educate them that the 'rulership 'of Nigeria is open to any tribe to partake. The failure of others to rule the Country whether by a barrel of gun or ballot must never be construed as a syndrome to always be the preferred candidates.
Before one becomes a leader in Nigeria, the person must have undergone process of acceptance within the ethnic, religious, and political fabric that makes up the Country at that material time. And even within the military establishment.
It is therefore laughable for some one to accuse the Hausa- Fulani of born to rule syndrome. Perhaps why we often come tops as preferred choice has been our excellent leadership qualities, inherent knowledge of issues affecting our country. Not as politicians of divide and rule are choosing hard to paint us - as illiterates or backwards.
Yes, there is high level of illiteracy in the North, agreed. But the ones that are learned are highly intelligent, adept, skillful, brilliant and succinctly, we are good at organising people - termed leadership.
I had a group of friends from the South East during my NYSC, particularly when we were in the orientation camp. In one of our gatherings one of them asked me where I studied. I proudly answered, "University of Maiduguri" The moment I said that I could vividly see the blank on his face. I was amazed when he further asked, where is Maiduguri? At first I thought it was the usual arrogance but truly my friend had no knowledge of his Country's geography. At that time my 6 year old younger brother had memorised all the 36 States and their capitals.
I was vindicated when some time ago a leading figure, unconsciously blurted out his ignorance by asking his audience, where is Mubi? This happened at the height of annexation of the town by boko haram.
So please my brothers from the other side, should we really accuse you of born-to-trade-spare -parts-syndrome?
Before one becomes a leader in Nigeria, the person must have undergone process of acceptance within the ethnic, religious, and political fabric that makes up the Country at that material time. And even within the military establishment.
It is therefore laughable for some one to accuse the Hausa- Fulani of born to rule syndrome. Perhaps why we often come tops as preferred choice has been our excellent leadership qualities, inherent knowledge of issues affecting our country. Not as politicians of divide and rule are choosing hard to paint us - as illiterates or backwards.
Yes, there is high level of illiteracy in the North, agreed. But the ones that are learned are highly intelligent, adept, skillful, brilliant and succinctly, we are good at organising people - termed leadership.
I had a group of friends from the South East during my NYSC, particularly when we were in the orientation camp. In one of our gatherings one of them asked me where I studied. I proudly answered, "University of Maiduguri" The moment I said that I could vividly see the blank on his face. I was amazed when he further asked, where is Maiduguri? At first I thought it was the usual arrogance but truly my friend had no knowledge of his Country's geography. At that time my 6 year old younger brother had memorised all the 36 States and their capitals.
I was vindicated when some time ago a leading figure, unconsciously blurted out his ignorance by asking his audience, where is Mubi? This happened at the height of annexation of the town by boko haram.
So please my brothers from the other side, should we really accuse you of born-to-trade-spare -parts-syndrome?
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