“In the face of excruciating pains, and the devaluation of their lives, many Nigerians are simply suffering and smiling, resigned to their fate in the hands of tricksters in government. Rather than reject the putrid odour of malfeasance in high places, they choose to relish the deodorized farthings of their captors. So, when the likes of Kemi Badenoch, though agonising the lot of their country, still find the courage and vision to describe in precise terms the systemic rot in the country; shouts of ‘bastard using the left hand to describe her father’s house’ rent the air. But to tell the truth, especially in difficult situations, requires courage, another trait valued in an Omoluabi”
A product of the indigenous knowledge of our socio-cultural worldview, the age long omoluabi ethos of our forebears was the foundation for the organisation and administration of our traditional communities. It was also the foundation for interpersonal relationships.
In the Omoluabi concept speaking the truth (ìsọ̀títọ́) is essential, as it aligns with values of honesty and trustworthiness, which are foundational in interpersonal and communal relationships.
One such philosophical truth says, even when one is crying, one still sees. Unfortunately, today’s realities would question the veracity of such claims.
It will amount to an understatement to say that today, many Nigerians are crying. What cannot be clearly determined is whether their ability to see is still intact. In the face of excruciating pains, and the devaluation of their lives, many Nigerians are simply suffering and smiling, resigned to their fate in the hands of tricksters in government. Rather than reject the putrid odour of malfeasance in high places, they choose to relish the deodorized farthings of their captors. So, when the likes of Kemi Badenoch, though agonising the lot of their country, still find the courage and vision to describe in precise terms the systemic rot in the country; shouts of ‘bastard using the left hand to describe her father’s house’ rent the air. But to tell the truth, especially in difficult situations, requires courage, another trait valued in an Omoluabi. The reason evil and wickedness thrive is the lack of courage by those who should uphold the truth. Even when the truth may bring discomfort, it is expected to be spoken as a sign of responsibility. In truth, many today have become blinded to the reality of their existence on account of the weeping attending their pains and the need to assuage the pains by whatever means possible. Quite shockingly, many elders, with custodial responsibilities, have become hypocritical for reasons of the rumblings in their stomachs. They no longer feel obliged to uphold truth as a moral obligation. In the Yoruba culture, telling the truth is seen as a reflection of one’s inner character and a sign of wisdom. Is it then a lack of character that some make statements that are misleading or outrightly aimed at deceiving others.
Speaking the truth is not merely an ethical principle, it is a cultural and spiritual duty that can preserve communal values.
As we collectively and vigorously pay attention to the beam in Kemi’s eyes, let us, with the same intensity take note of the mote in our own eyes. Though she’s weeping, Kemi still sees. Let us all do the same.
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