There is palpable tension in the land. Hunger on rampage, marauding herdsmen on the prowl, economy in recession, business gasping for breath , our dear Naira on a free fall. And it could get worse if we keep fanning the embers of ethnic and religious feud.


Few weeks ago, the US secretary of state, John Kerry visited Nigeria to offer support for Nigeria’s war on terrorism. His visit to the Sultan of Sokoto and meeting with the governors of the Northern States was a cause for concern for the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and some socio-political commentators from the South of Nigeria. They accused John Kerry of bias in his selection; stating that he favoured the North and Muslims over the South and Christians.


Question is, should this really be a cause for concern? The American government much to the disappointment of some Northern governors did not offer any goodies but rather advised Nigeria not to use strong arm tactics in dealing with boko-haram and other extremist groups disturbing the peace and stability of the country.
The CAN should focus on purging their members of the primitive pursuit of material wealth and help to extol virtues enunciated by Christ. The leading light of CAN have enough resources in their fold to lead their members out of poverty and ignorance. No, they would rather buy private Jets, choice properties around the globe. The leaders of CAN have done more harm to the body of Christ than John Kerry or America.


Enter Facebook founder, Mark Zuckerberg and his decision to put Hausa language software on his website. One would think this is his prerogative. Not so. According to eminent historian, politician, social activist, lawyer, two-time minister, former presidential spokesman, Femi Fani-Kayode (FFK), this decision is part of centuries old grand scheme by the Western World imperialist governments and their agents to promote Northern Nigeria over Southern Nigeria.


Reno Omokiri, former presidential aid on new media, dared to disagree. The exchange began on a lighter mood, but as Reno Omokiri was insistent on holding on to his views, he soon stirred the Pharaoh’s fury. Then the expletives followed.
Kudos to Reno Omokiri, he exited the stage with grace. FFK acted like he had some old score to settle with Reno Omokiri and was looking for the slightest slip to pounce. Reno Omokiri did not provide the slip, yet FFK pounced.
The problem with Nigeria is not with the commoners on the street; it is the leaders in the church, the mosque, the presidential and state villas, the National & State Assemblies and the elites like, FFK.


I am from the Niger-Delta. I sat in the sand at Maiduguri Market to eat Suya and bread with Hausa-Fulanis and was very much at home when in their midst. Many Nigerians share similar tales of cordial and convivial existence with people from different parts of the country. Our leaders and elites know this much but would rather sing discordant tunes to promote their parochial interest. They preach unity and promote religious and ethnic schism at different times to serve their interest.


If our leaders at every level do their best always in the interest of the country;If our religious leaders tend their flock instead of exploiting them, if our elites serve their communities instead of self, Nigeria would not be on this cross road at this time. If we spend more time to wrought justice and fairness, we would spend less time to preach peace. Let us all spend more time to look inward at what we can do, and where we can make amend to better our society, and less time on stalking our perceived opponents!