Independence day; The yearly match with a retrogressive state by Olabanji Joel.

Growth measurement differ in many ways, while some measure it based on achievement, some do that measurement based of the number of years used, in other words, numerical growth.



Our achievements over the years as an independent nation has been based on our population and the number of years post independence, what else has been the achievements? Not going too far, our achievements could be seen ironically in the value of our currency, our growing economy, our improved standard of living, improved infrastructure, reduced poverty and security etc. Apparently, all these all lacking in this sovereign nation called Nigeria.

Independence day has always come up with match which has been leading the masses to hardship and economy retrogression, we physically match forward in celebration but the kind of leadership we have been having over the years has literally been pulling the country back economically and other ways. 

Since we have been matching, it could be said that the country has been getting worse year in year out, even the 1998 democracy has been mocked by the present administration. Should we continue matching without a vivid growth?!

We celebrate independence but are we truly independent? Our dependence rate on foreign loans, aids and decisions describes the kind of independence in Nigeria today. Should this kind of independence be continued?

Instead of the usual unproductive match, this year's independence ceremony has been announced by well meaning Nigerians to be overtaken by a match against bad governance and economy retrogression. October 1st protest has been planned to be an unusual match aimed at remoulding the present state of independence in this nation. This time around, we match against corruption, bad governance, tyranny, insecurity, unemployment, high electricity tariff, high petrol pump price, devaluation of our currency, expensive national assembly, irresponsible executive arm of the government etc. 



THE UNUSUAL MATCH FOR PROGRESS AS AGAINST THE USUAL MATCH WITH PERSISTING RETROGRESSION IS WHAT THE OCTOBER 1ST PROTEST STANDS FOR. Coming out for the distinct match this year is a duty for our nation, our future and that of our unborn children. With silence, no future is guaranteed for the masses, with a strong match and voice, we resist bad governance with economy relegation.

Written by Olabanji Joel

A Nurse, Writer and Socialist.

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