I am not about to discuss economic issues but a “common
sense” approach like Ben Murray may as well force some economic reasoning into
this subject matter. Not just the economic considerations but also safety and
security concerns will be raised in discussing this topic. Name calling will be
ruled out because it is an issue which almost every Nigerian would want to
indulge in if the opportunity presents itself.
CONVOY
My fellow Nigerians, while I was heading to the Ikeja office
of Jumia on Tuesday 26th January, I almost got run over by 5 unmarked SUVs on
high speed with no regards for traffic regulations or safety of other road
users. Some months back, we heard about a federal lawmaker who’s convoy flouted
traffic rules and caused an accident and despite the fact that he built a “world
class” medical facility in his state while he was a chief executive, he nevertheless
trusted the creation of his own hands but chose to go abroad for slight
bruises. Other victims of this avoidable incidents were left at the mercy of
our medicare.
The cost of moving in convoy is exorbitant and a waste of
resources; the costs involved in the purchase of fuel for all the vehicles, the
allowances for all members of staff involved, the loss of man-hours, the denial
of adequate security services to the populace for the benefit of a few, the
wanton destruction of lives and properties, and many others should be enough
reason why public officers and in some instances rich and powerful Nigerians
should have a rethink before their next outing with long convoys.
In as much as we understand the deplorable security
situation in the country, it is not out of place to state that ‘as much as
supply creates its own demand’so does the activities of these powerful few
create tension amongst the ‘not haves’ and the lust for power and affluence
will push them into unconventional means of achieving such ‘luxury’. When a
rich man in the midst of the poor tries to empower as many people as possible
to become self-dependent, he has created the best form of security for himself.
Even if you have to use a convoy, make it as minimal as possible and please
obey all traffic rules.
Another instance that comes to mind is the death of an ASUU
activist who lost his life due to the same convoy menace of an ex-governor who
recently handed over. Incidents like this abounds but the stories never come
out due to the personalities involved. The costs of these to our country are
huge and complex but the solution is so simple.
I might not have discussed it extensively but I hope I was
able to put my point across to someone who’s about to step into the long convoy
of cars. The environment is another factor to consider if all other reasons
adduced are of no consequence to your conscience. I rest my case.
Contributions, comments and rejoinders are welcome.