Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.
— Booker T. Washington
In the walks of life across the globe, people with political, economic, philosophical and ethical, technological, spiritual and religious, historical and cultural knowledge are well respected and valued. But ours is a society that celebrates nepotism over meritocracy, incompetence over expertise, and ineptitude over skill—through political connection and favouritism.
If justice were fairly played, the history of political awareness not only in Gombe but also in the North East wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the likes of Dr. Babayo Sule. From classroom teaching to the radio programs he offers as community services, the name of this man echoes through the nooks and crannies. Yet such a person, instead of being celebrated, valued, and motivated, is here like a ghost from the past that refuses exorcism—walking through a thorny path, where bushes and brambles bruise and scratch his slowly grown skin. Still, he remains unshakable, resilient, and focused.
The history of his academic journey in the State University as a tutor was full of challenges birthed out of enmities, hatred, and hypocrisy by some unscrupulous elements who failed to see beyond the darkness of their selfish interests—interests that would not only affect their children but also the children of their children.
Apart from shortlisting his name among the enemies of a particular university management, he faced denial of approval to further his education, denial of promotion and accelerated promotion, stoppage of salary, threats to terminate his appointment, and several attempts to silence his voice on his radio programs. These were only some of the hurdles he faced before he had his wings feathered and flew out of the country to South Africa.
If such a rare gem could be frustrated despite his love for the system, the state, the region, and the nation at large, tell me—how could the development we yearn for ever come to fruition? Nigeria is blessed with naturally endowed people across all fields. But due to the failure of the system, many have left for better treatment outside the country. How many medical doctors, lecturers, and engineers who are Nigerians are currently giving their best in another country?
Despite all the treatment, Dr. Babayo often grants interviews as if he is still in the country. I believe hundreds of thousands of people are not aware that Dr. Babayo has left for South Africa, where he now comfortably teaches with full entitlements. If a nation can neglect such kind of people and still chant songs of development, that nation is still in slumber.
I pity the unborn generation, for they may come to find a land abandoned by its finest minds—a land full of the living, but empty of life.
• Muhammad Rabiu Jibrin (Mr. J), sent this piece.
