The Shame of Success: When Education and Wealth Fuel Terrorism
~~ Ahman Makams
The recent guilty plea of British-Nigerian art dealer Ochuko Ojiri for financing terrorism sends a chilling message to Nigerians, and indeed the world. Here is a man who achieved a level of success many only dream of – a thriving business, appearances on popular television programmes, and the comfortable life that comes with such accomplishments. Yet, he chose to betray his own success, his community, and his humanity by knowingly funding a terrorist organization. This raises a crucial question for us as Nigerians: how can someone so privileged, so educated, contribute to the very violence and suffering that plagues to nations?
The easy answer, often whispered, is "Shaitan." But invoking the devil as an excuse absolves us of our own responsibility. Shaitan doesn't force anyone's hand; he whispers temptations, but the choice to yield remains ours. Ojiri, with his access to information, his awareness of terrorists sanctioned status, and the advice of compliance officers, made a conscious, deliberate choice to prioritize personal gain over the lives of countless innocent people. He chose to fund an organization responsible for violence, instability, and the suffering of so many.
This case isn't just about a single individual; it reflects a broader moral crisis. It highlights the insidious nature of terrorism financing, where seemingly innocuous transactions can contribute to devastating consequences. It underscores the urgent need for ethical awareness and a moral compass that transcends personal ambition.
As Nigerians, we are grappling with immense challenges: insecurity, poverty, and injustice. We need leaders, entrepreneurs, and citizens who prioritize the well-being of their nation and their fellow human beings, not those who enrich themselves while indirectly fueling the very forces that perpetuate these challenges.
Ojiri's story isn't an anomaly; it's a stark reminder of the moral choices we face every day. We must cultivate a society where success is measured not only by material wealth but also by integrity and a commitment to positive social impact. Will we be remembered for our contributions to progress and peace, or for silently aiding those who sow chaos and destruction?
The choice is ours. Let us choose wisely. Let us reject the path of selfish gain that leads to complicity in terror. Let us choose, instead, to build a Nigeria where education, wealth, and influence are harnessed to uplift our communities, not to undermine them. Let us ensure that the legacy we leave behind is one of progress, not complicity. Let this case serve as a potent warning and a call for genuine moral introspection.
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