Nigeria at 64: Time to Stop Celebrating Fraudsters, Urges Dr. Oghenesivbe
ASABA/Nigeria: As Nigeria commemorates its 64th Independence anniversary, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Director General of the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, has issued a stern call for Nigerians to cease the celebration of fraudsters and unscrupulous individuals. His remarks came during a special appearance on a Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) program and a popular radio talk show in Asaba on Saturday.
Dr. Oghenesivbe highlighted that the societal tendency to glorify ill-gotten wealth has exacerbated the nation’s socio-economic challenges and moral decline. He lamented that, despite 64 years of independence, Nigeria’s standing on the global stage is deteriorating, primarily due to rampant corruption and the primitive accumulation of wealth by some leaders. He noted that the looting of public funds has become so widespread that it is viewed as a way of life, leading the younger generation to lose faith in patriotism, moral values, and integrity.
He urged parents, guardians, and caregivers to instill positive moral values, a sense of patriotism, and fear of God in children. By attending to their needs and guiding them towards good company throughout their formative years, society can avoid producing hardened criminals devoid of respect for human life.
Dr. Oghenesivbe asserted that Nigeria will continue to slide into deeper socio-economic woes unless corrupt and morally bankrupt leaders demonstrate genuine attitudinal change. He emphasized the necessity for these leaders to express remorse, voluntarily return stolen public funds, and refrain from the primitive accumulation of wealth, warning that the poor will only become poorer due to the greed of those in power.
Additionally, as a member of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), he called on the federal government to take immediate and transparent actions to rectify Nigeria’s negative image on the international stage. He criticized the selective application of justice in the fight against corruption, particularly referencing media reports linking senior government officials to bribery and corruption involving transgender personality Bobrisky. This controversy has significantly tarnished Nigeria’s reputation, both at home and abroad. He commended federal lawmakers for initiating an investigation into these allegations.
Dr. Oghenesivbe also addressed the detrimental impact of figures like Bobrisky on the younger generation, urging governments at all levels to implement laws that prohibit negative influences perceived as contrary to African values. He suggested that constitutional amendments may be necessary to achieve this.
“We thank God that Nigeria remains united—that is the only positive note I can discern as we celebrate our 64th year of independence,” he stated. “However, nearly all sectors of the nation’s economy are in a state of disrepair. Inflation has reached alarming rates between 34% and 38%, and the Naira has plummeted to an exchange rate of N1,700 to one United States Dollar. Poverty is ravaging our populace more than any known disease.”
He attributed Nigeria’s challenges to bad leadership and systemic corruption. “Our leaders have looted our common treasury with the help of unscrupulous financial experts who have historically facilitated these crimes,” he lamented. “God endowed Nigeria with all the resources necessary for greatness, yet we have squandered these blessings. It is time we seek divine forgiveness and realize that we are taking God’s grace for granted.”
Dr. Oghenesivbe emphasized that until Nigerians begin to question the sources of wealth and cease the celebration of fraudsters, the nation will continue its downward spiral into socio-economic decline and moral decay. He expressed deep concern for Nigeria, noting, “At 64, we are still struggling to feed our citizens, provide basic social services, and deliver quality education to our youth. Insecurity is ravaging the very fabric of our society, and we are overwhelmed by self-inflicted challenges.”
He concluded with a plea for leaders to undergo a fundamental change in attitude and to set a positive example for the younger generation. “Our youth are increasingly disinterested in moral values and integrity. Many have abandoned education for fraudulent activities, while some members of society celebrate them. This is a lamentable situation.”
“For Nigeria to thrive, we must question the sudden wealth of individuals who enjoy affluence without clear and legitimate means of support. This inquiry is essential for embarking on a new journey towards a greater Nigeria,” Dr. Oghenesivbe asserted.
