Imo State stands out in the South East region for a troubling reason: it is perhaps the only state where young, able-bodied men widely view politics and government as their primary means of livelihood. This dependence on political positions and government contracts has bred a generation of morally bankrupt and misguided youth, whose actions reflect the worst aspects of human nature. Blackmail, backbiting, betrayal, and warped reasoning are rampant, epitomizing a societal decay that sociologists might describe as “crabology”—the tendency to drag each other down to prevent anyone from succeeding.
The Roots of the Problem
The root of this phenomenon lies in the economic structure of Imo State, where the livelihoods of many are directly tied to government resources. Unlike their counterparts in Anambra State, where 70% of the wealthy individuals are full-time businessmen, a significant portion of Imo’s affluent population derives their wealth from government contracts and political appointments. This dependency fosters a climate where sycophancy and unethical behavior are not only tolerated but rewarded.
The Consequences
The consequences of this political dependency are far-reaching. The moral fabric of society is eroded as young people grow up seeing dishonesty and betrayal as viable paths to success. This environment stifles genuine entrepreneurial spirit and innovation, as the easiest route to wealth is perceived to be through government patronage rather than hard work and business acumen. Self-appointed “doctors” and “professors” of politics emerge, boasting of their experience in sycophantic and manipulative tactics, rather than any substantive contribution to society.
Anambra: A Stark Contrast
In stark contrast, Anambra State serves as a beacon of what a focus on business and entrepreneurship can achieve. The state’s economy thrives on the entrepreneurial spirit of its people, with a significant majority of its wealthy individuals engaged in business rather than politics. This not only diversifies the state’s economic base but also fosters a culture of innovation, hard work, and self-reliance.
Lessons for Imo
Imo State stands to learn a great deal from Anambra’s example. By shifting the focus from government dependency to fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, Imo can unlock the potential of its youth, encourage ethical behavior, and build a more robust and resilient economy. This transformation would require concerted efforts from both the government and the private sector to create an environment that supports business development, provides opportunities for young entrepreneurs, and discourages the culture of political dependency.
Ultimately, The current state of affairs in Imo is a dangerous phenomenon that threatens the future of its youth and the overall development of the state. However, by taking deliberate steps to emulate the business-centric model of Anambra, Imo can chart a new course towards a more prosperous and ethically sound future. The onus is on the leaders and citizens of Imo to recognize the need for change and work collectively to bring about a brighter, more sustainable future.
Chima Nnadi-Oforgu
Duruebube Uzii na Abosi
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