Why can we as humans, identify when somethings are wrong, but do nothing to fix them?
Let me rephrase. Why are we able to point out weak legal, economical, or societal structures, but do little to correct them?
After all, the purpose of identifying a problem, is to solve it, isn't it?
An answer which makes sense to me is; humans are most times satisfied with weak structures. What do I mean by this? Weak structures and societies, are easier to take advantage of and exploit. These problems, exist for a constantly, because they are of benefit to a certain group of people. For example, a weak legal system makes it easier for people to be cheated and stolen from. When justice is difficult to attain, criminals become bolder.
Let's use the Nigerian society as a case study. It is so often that we speak on the ever present and infamous corruption prevalent in the society. But it seems like the more we speak and condemn it, the worse it becomes. Can we say it is because corruption is so indestructible, that all efforts to kill it fail? I for one, think that the reason is that - corruption favours some people, and those people obstruct whatever attempts are made to eliminate it.
Let's also consider the Nigerian creative industry. The lack of structure, and legal organization, makes it easy for companies to take advantage of creatives. Or for creatives to take advantage of fellow creatives. A lot of musicians, actors, filmmakers, are constantly being ripped off; as there is no solid structure to protect them. And all efforts to set in place these structures, are met with stiff opposition from fellow industry persons, who use the opportunity to exploit others.
In a nutshell, it is correct to state that the biggest hindrance to development and positive change, is from the people who need it. This isn't exactly exclusive to this side of the world though. Even in the developed nations, there are people who make it their duty to preserve the fire that would be better extinguished.
GUARDIANS OF THE WRONG
By
Jefferson Nnadiekwe