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The Culture of Nigerian Elite

I doubt if those who often claim they love Nigeria more than Anini, Abacha, IBB, OBJ, can equally beat their chest and say, "I understand Nigerian elite". Nigerian elite especially commentators, writers, journalists are simply unpredictable. (Me no be among o. Me just dey write to relieve meself of certain emotions). It seems majority do not have a particular conviction that stands. They flip-flop wherever the wind of events blow. One thing that is predictable however, is their grammar. Kai, dem sabi blow grammar pass oyinbo wey dey igilandi.

At this point in time, I expect Nigerian elite to have perfected a masterful way out of the mess. But instead they love repeating the same thing every now and then. Our political, economic, social and intellectual elites are known for their style. For instance, if they are not calling for attention, they would be calling for an opportunity to crumb the table. Nigerian elite - with the exception of a few - have constantly abuse the word. It's apparent they barely know exactly what it is they want. There was never a time they tested their own conviction.

The reaction exhibited by the elite before and after the just concluded elections is enough point to showcase their folly. They come about as a people who just love to communicate a particular impression. Only a very few of them have managed to make a display of strength. They have done nothing but confusion towards meaningful development. If Nigerian elite are damn serious, they know what to do. But they prefer to be relevant only in making the loudest noise. Hence, my grudge against them.

Even they look foolish at their best. Once upon a time they raised our hope. We thought they were deeply in earnest about SNC (Sovereign National Conference), so we gave them our eyes in case they lost theirs during the struggle. The rest is now history - of jokes. What is the elite doing about the PTDF probe? What about impeachement this and that? They have allowed all the things dear to development - die a natural death.

When it was obvious that the elections would not be free and fair due to Obasanjo's body foul language, Nigerian elite preached fire and brimstone. They assured us they would rather be dead than to be alive serving another illegal god. Nna, are they not already offering their congratulations? Are they not already referring to Yar'Adua, the benefactor of such "massively rigged" elections as the president-elect - even as he battles legitimacy? Some are even falling over one another for appointments.

For example, The Ooni recently congratulated the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Maurice Iwu on what he termed the successful conduct of the first civilian-to-civilian elections in the country. Although some Obas have distanced themselves from Ooni's remark, I am appalled to hear such authoritative declaration from a deity whose mouth must spit fire of truth - at all times.

Unreliability is the word recently used by the outgoing president, Olusegun Obasanjo, to describe Nigerian elite. He argued that our major problem is the elite, contending that when they want something they must get it otherwise they become the enemy. Although Obasanjo's reasons are different from mine, I agree with his use of adjective. See, I am already aligning myself with a man being described as a "bloody liar" by the Ige family.

I really do not know why many Nigerian commentators have chosen to follow the bandwagon by quickly accepting Yar'Adua, especially when they had strongly condemned the elections that brought Yar'Adua to the present position. Why are these people so cheap in their conviction? How would they preserve their dignity? Or how do they expect someone like Obasanjo to respect them when just yesterday they vehemently opposed the outcome of the election, and today they are singing a different song?

Sonala Olumhense of The Guardian is already telling Yar'Adua what to do as Nigerian President. "Having suitably distanced himself from the Messiah of Otta, he should seek 100 men and women who are ready to serve this country, and shut the door. Hopefully, Nigeria's new leader knows where to shop for friends…"

One Olusola O. Sobodu titled his own piece, "What Nigerians and the New President Should Know". Also, Simon Kolawole of ThisDay in his 10 Commandments for Yar'Adua, writes inter-alia. "Look, listen and learn, O ye President-elect of Nigeria, Mallam Umaru Musa Yar'Adua. If thou wantest to make thy way prosperous and rule over Nigeria successfully in the next four years, thou must apply thine heart to knowledge, wisdom and understanding…"

Although it is unclear to me whether these peole were using satire, I detect from the tone that they believe life goes on no matter what. But should the lives of millions of Nigerians just go on in a zig-zag manner? Without solid political foundation? I strongly believe it's outrageous to be calling Yar'Adua the president-elect. The reason is due to what is now obvious to Nigerians: Yar'Adua is a benefactor of sham modesty.

So, we must move on like we have moved on with the fraud perpetrated by the British? If we decided to move on despite the obvious, how are we sure the next elections would not be as massively rigged? We moved on in 1979, 2003, and now 2007. Now I hear you clearly: we don't need inspired leaders. We may move on but certainly the can of worms that has been opened would remain secretly opened.

But because well-meaning Nigerians have suddenly forgotten the bestial approach that produced Yar'Adua, and now tactically referring to him as the Nigerian president-elect instead of Iwubasanjo President-elect, I am tempted to renounce my earlier vow never to succumb to election dupery of any magnitude. I mean, who am I to say no, when the elite have already decided that Yar'Adua is now our next president?

Anyway, whilst I am busy whinning, Yar'Adua will attend a summit of the Group of Eight industrialized power in Germany next month. Besides, #820m will be spent on this man's inauguration, according to newspaper reports! Who says fraud is a criminal offence?