Unfounded Accusations: Debunking The blame Game By Donu Kogbara

Unfounded Accusations: Debunking The blame Game By Donu Kogbara....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Recently, I came across a video interview featuring Dele Farotimi, the radical lawyer and activist, discussing colonialism and Nigeria’s relations with foreign powers. His words resonated deeply with me. I’ve grown weary of blaming external forces for every ill in our societies.

Mr. Farotimi’s insights reminded me of a profound truth encapsulated in that line: when we accuse powerful nations of oppression, we often overlook our own roles and responsibilities.

His statement challenges us to think critically and deserves a broader audience. Here are some edited excerpts that capture the essence of his message:

“Let’s be clear about something.

“There will always be national interest and personal interests. The British interest does not coincide with a Nigeria that is working. “American interest does not necessarily coincide with a Nigeria that is working. That is the truth.

“How much more money do you think they make from exporting petrol to us after they’ve imported our crude? It makes more sense for them. It creates jobs in their country. It gives them forex. So, I don’t blame them.

“Yorubas will say that (speaks Yoruba) that there is nobody who will not take advantage of the foolish.

“That we are foolish enough to be incapable of recognizing what is in our own enlightened self-interest as a collective is not the fault of the foreign powers. I don’t blame them. Is it their fault that we are foolish? It is not.

“If we truly have leaders, those leaders should have clarity as to the vision with which they are leading the people. If you are leading a people, you must have a destination to which you are leading them.”

Mr. Farotimi’s perspective encourages us to introspect and take ownership of our circumstances, urging leaders to lead with a clear vision for the benefit of all.