04/07/2026
NIGERIA AND POLITICS 101
According to ancient Greek thought, the three types of people within a society are Idiots, Tribesmen, and Citizens. Can we deny that this is applicable to the state of NIGERIA and also grossly prevalent among those we may classify as Christians in the whole Southern parts of Nigeria be it the Eastern, the Middle and the Western parts including the Middle belts. Can we aptly define this people groups in this light and call them out as mere religious citizens masquerading as Christians on the majority. I’m bold to say so and bold to include 90% of the Church leaders.
This classification defines individuals be they Church goers, religionists and mere professing Christians based on their engagement with public life and commitment to the common good of Nigeria.
Idiots (Idiotes): People who focus only on themselves, their personal lives, and private interests, often ignoring public affairs and civic responsibility. Isn’t this the qualification of many participants in Church activities? I stand to be corrected.
Tribesmen (Tribes): This is the core nature of many Church Goers and leaders of our mega churches. Individuals with a narrow, clannish mindset who view society only through the lens of their specific tribe, religion, or ethnic group. Isn’t this the core undoing of our present electoral processes in Nigeria?
Citizens (Polites): Those with the skills and commitment to engage in public life, prioritizing the common good, civility, and shared humanity be they possessors of genuine Faith in God in one form or the other. The hallmark of this 1% of Nigeria hold the true faith that ALL LIVES OF NIGERIANS ARE SACRED. They absolutely abhor shedding of human blood in all forms. The hold to the truth that all human beings are created equal with the divine inalienable right to freedom and equal justice. How many Christians are living by this creed and who are tribally BLIND?
These distinctions illustrate that to the Greeks, a healthy society is built on active citizenship rather than selfish "idiocy" or divisive tribalism.
Prayer though necessary but can’t trump over Romans 12:1-2. Amen.
