In Chinua Achebe’s seminal novel Things Fall Apart, the character Ezeudu delivers a powerful admonition to Okonkwo: “That boy calls you father. Do not bear a hand in his death.”
These words are not just a warning in a fictional narrative; they resonate deeply with the human experience and, more urgently, with the realities of present-day Nigeria.
This statement, though rooted in a specific cultural and historical context, can be interpreted as a universal call for compassion, empathy, and the duty of care we owe to one another.
In Nigeria today, where social, political, and economic challenges continue to strain relationships, this message takes on heightened significance.
In Achebe’s novel, Okonkwo is warned not to be complicit in the death of a young boy who regards him as a father figure. This highlights the sacred responsibility individuals hold in nurturing and protecting those who look up to them.
In our society, many of us find ourselves in positions where others—whether children, mentees, employees, or fellow citizens—look up to us for guidance, protection, and leadership.
This responsibility is especially critical for Nigeria’s leaders, whether they be in government, community leadership, or business.
Our actions—or inaction—have consequences on the lives of millions of Nigerians who rely on the decisions made in offices and boardrooms.
Every policy passed, every budget allocation, and every reform touches the lives of those who metaphorically “call us father.”
Fulfilling this responsibility means not bearing a hand in policies or actions that harm the very people we are tasked to protect.
In recent times, Nigeria has witnessed a surge in violence, youth disenfranchisement, and economic inequality.
This reality reveals an erosion of empathy in various spheres of life.
Achebe’s warning reminds us that, when we fail to act with compassion and empathy, we become complicit in the “death”—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—of those who depend on us.
When leaders and citizens alike lose touch with the humanity of others, we see the consequences in forms of brutality, corruption, and negligence.
The ever-increasing gulf between the rich and the poor, the marginalisation of vulnerable groups, and the disregard for human life in conflict areas such as the North East, all point to an urgent need to rekindle our collective empathy.
The metaphor of “fatherhood” in Achebe’s quote speaks to the interconnectedness of all Nigerians, regardless of tribe, religion, or socioeconomic status.
Nigeria, with its diversity of ethnicities and cultures, must strive for national unity. This unity cannot be achieved through indifference or hostility. We are brothers and sisters, and the wellbeing of one affects the wellbeing of all.
As the country faces divisive forces, it is crucial to remember that every Nigerian child, every underprivileged youth, and every citizen bears the potential to contribute to the greatness of our nation.
To bear a hand in their “death” is to stifle the very spirit of progress and unity that Nigeria so desperately needs.
Achebe’s warning also serves as a call to reimagine leadership—not just as an exercise of power, but as an exercise of guardianship.
True leaders must not be driven by the pursuit of self-interest or the desire for control. Instead, they must be driven by the wellbeing of those who trust them.
Similarly, the ordinary citizen must also take this message to heart. We must reject the culture of silence and indifference to the struggles of others.
We all have a role to play in shaping the future of Nigeria. Whether it’s through voting, activism, or simply offering a hand to those in need, we must strive to create a society that protects and uplifts its most vulnerable members.
In broader terms, Achebe’s powerful statement is not just a reminder to Okonkwo, but a warning to every Nigerian—leaders and citizens alike.
We must not bear a hand in the “death” of our fellow countrymen and women. We must embrace compassionate leadership, empathetic citizenship, and the recognition that every Nigerian deserves the opportunity to live a life of dignity and purpose.
In these times of crisis and uncertainty, let us heed Achebe’s wisdom and strive for a future where no one is left behind. Only by fostering empathy, compassion, and responsibility can we hope to build a Nigeria that works for all.
•Anayo is a political commentator and can be reached via neduum@aol.com
