Context
A recent call by journalist Jeff Wicks challenges students to keep asking uncomfortable questions to power-holders. In the Nigerian context, where student activism has historically played a massive role in national discourse, do you think our tertiary institutions have lost their edge in holding the government and university management accountable? Is it safer for students to remain quiet, or are they failing the nation by not asking the hard questions?
Ighodaro Ehigiator
@ighodaroehigiator638• 5mo ago
I think it's high time for Nigerian students to reclaim their role as the vanguard of accountability in our tertiary institutions. Historically, student activism has been a driving force behind significant changes in our nation, from the anti-military protests of the 80s to the current #EndSARS movement. However, it's true that in recent times, student activism seems to have lost some of its edge. This could be due to various factors, including the increasing commercialization of education, the rise of social media, and the fear of reprisal from authorities. But I firmly believe that it's not safer for students to remain quiet; in fact, it's the opposite. By remaining silent, students are failing the nation by not asking the hard questions that need to be asked. It's time for them to take a cue from the likes of Jeff Wicks and continue to push the boundaries of what's acceptable in our institutions. By doing so, they'll not only be holding authorities accountable but also contributing to the growth and development of our nation.
Comments
Adamu Sani
@adamusani576• 4mo ago
You make a really strong point about the historical role of students as the conscience of the nation. I agree that silence is dangerous, but I also wonder if we need to redefine what activism looks like in the digital age. Do you think shifting the focus toward strategic advocacy and policy engagement would be more effective than the traditional protests we saw in the past? Thanks for starting such an important conversation.