The case of Ahmed Awela, Murtala (Eti Bobo) among other Ebira youths

Ismail M. Kabir,

Lagos.

Between controversial existence and a contentious exit.

There are various sides to a story. For an event that happens with few or no significant eye witness, the news come in different versions; some partially correct, others completely cooked up. In some cases, such non-witnessed event pass round as rumour until eventually confirmed.

Rumour it was, when a phone call from Okene announced the death of two famous Ebira youths! They were killed by the Police, reported the news. Being on a Sunday when nothing too special should ensue save for the usual church services and social functions, the news sounded as the most unexpected, as a matter of fact, incredible! The thought of losing such youths on an ordinary day like Sunday undoubtedly was the reason for the astonishment. Not a single person of Ebira origin, within or outside the soil would believe such shocker upon first hearing. Text messages, phone calls and of course physical enquiries lingered, all in an attempt to confirm a relatively, ‘good’ news.

In some quarters, the news was disturbing and to a larger extent, ignited a violent reaction. Believe it or not, two respected helmsmen have been fallen! They were heroes in their clique. While alive, a lot of respect, honour and accolades were enjoyed by the duo, not just from the ‘ordinary’ children of the soil, but from the high and mighty who unrepentantly utilized their dexterity to the fullest. As the news of their untimely death in the merciless hands of the police was confirmed, the town was thrown into a new shape of commotion.

Their life was blemished with controversies, little wonder they were declared wanted, dead or alive, by the Police several months earlier. An earlier broadcast indicated that their identity was unknown to the Police boss but suddenly, when they were needed most by their unholy god-fathers; same identity became too evident to the once ignorant officers. They were ambushed, and killed!

Regardless of the termination style, they left significant memories. A certain report related how the news was celebrated and equally mourned in various quarters; reasons for such reactions are easily found from sources with accounts of personal or perceived bitter experiences on different occasions. Our concern remains that, for every fallen soul, Ebira population suffers a decrease. Our agitations and struggles as a community require able-bodied men in whose veins run blood of patriotism. Men, who can defend our heritage, protect our image from trampling of selfish adversaries. Unfortunately, our leaders in their ignorance, self-centeredness and greed have murdered priority and thus forfeiting this great assets by luring them with luxuries. No man given an opportunity to righteous living, unconditioned with Machiavellian demands, will concede it to iniquity.

Those offering our innocent youths silver spoons for impious gains should not forget that evil begets evil. No matter the life span, natural justice demands that man reaps what he sows even before his exit from the world. Given a better opportunity, proper orientation and worthy encouragements, Ebira youths can lead more fruitful lives than they are currently subjected. The so-called leaders should wake up to their calling lest they leave with eternal stigma of ignoble life. Isn’t it said that what is good for Goose is equally good for the gander? Hopefully, the masters are learning from appalling ends of their underlings.

THE WORLD IS WATCHING !