Because I Am Nigerian

When I log into this Rascism/Sectariansm section of Nairaland these days, it is appalling, the things that I read. Many of us Nigerians in the West come to this Board, I believe, to have a sense of community and take a break from the reality of  an African person living away from home.

Instead, I read threads about why Tribe A is so much better than Tribe B; and how Tribe C, and Tribe C alone, is made up of "419ners." etc, etc.

As a Nigerian living in the West, there is already enough hatred for us. Why are you compounding the drama, so that there is really no difference now whether I live among a different race; or live among my own people?

One example of my experience in America:
One of my applications for a student intern position with a law firm. I was called for an interview with a law partner. The discussion went great. Then he asked where I was originally from.
"Nigeria," I said.
The tone of the interview changed. The partner launched into a narration of how it is "not wise to deal fraudulently in the practise of law, because losing your bar license is not worth the sacrifice of being a fraudster."

Completely off-topic, totally uncalled for. Why did the partner sense this need to provide unsolicitied advise about fraud? - Because I am a Nigerian?

Anyway, that is just one example of what I have seen.

So, the point of this long epistle I am writing here? I AM Nigerian, NOT just Igbo, NOT just Hausa, NOT just Yoruba. Because whether you like it or not, a Yoruba, or Hausa, or Igbo person caught in a fraud; or with stinky hair; or with a rude and insulting attitude is STILL a Nigerian, and the rest of us will be generalized as being exactly like that in the eyes of the West. NOT that such generalizations defines who we are as individuals, as far as I'm concerned, anyway.

If any tribal-hate-mongerer on this Board fails to see the reason why the tribal bashing is grating on the nerves of a Nigerian in the West like myself, then that is borderline moronic on your part.

Webster Dictionary Definition of Moronic:  Mildly mentally retarded person

NO RESPONSES REQUIRED.

weep not omonla, there are lots of nigerians still thinking like you. when the time comes those tribalists will sing a new song.