Ugochimereze Chinedu Asuzu
It’s really unfortunate that a Reuben Abati, thought to be a well-read and probably informed mind, could make such a brazen faux pas as he recently did on a live TV program against an entire race – the Igbo ethnic nationality. And also has the audacity to say “no one should tell me nonsense” when he was redirected.
While it’s expected of a good journalist to possess a unique combination of skills and attributes, like curiosity, objectivity, research skills, strong communication skills, attention to detail, interviewing skills, adaptability, ethical awareness, critical thinking, cultural sensitivity, technical skills, resilience, and a commitment to transparency and accountability, Reuben Abati has simply allowed primordial sentiments, ethnic bias, bigotry, and deep-seated animosity to cloud his judgment.
As a Nigerian journalist, politician, and TV presenter who has worked with Arise TV and written columns for The Guardian newspaper, one would expect Abati to be well-informed about the happenings in the Southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria. However, his recent comments on a live TV program, where he stated that Igbos do not sell land to visitors or foreigners, were not only misinformed but also painted the Igbo ethnic nationality in a very bad light.
This assertion has been largely discredited, with many pointing out that it is not representative of the entire Igbo ethnic nationality. In fact, there are numerous examples of Igbos selling land to people from other ethnic groups, including Yorubas. For instance, several churches and banks owned by Yorubas have branches in Igbo towns and cities, and the lands for these establishments were sold to them by Igbos, among other investments owned by Nigerians of other ethnic groups and foreigners alike in the southeast.
It is surprising that Abati, a supposedly well-educated and experienced journalist, could make such an uninformed and divisive comment. His actions have been seen as a clear example of ethnic profiling, and have sparked widespread outrage and condemnation.
Abati’s actions have been seen as a clear example of ethnic profiling. One cannot help but wonder who Abati is holding briefs for, or who is picking his bills for such an unprovoked attack on the Igbos. Whatever the case may be, it is clear that Abati’s comments were not only misguided but also damaging to the reputation of the Igbo ethnic nationality, and as such stands condemned in its entirety.
©Ugochimereze
23/11/2024
