By Veronica Dariya
An author, Mr Andrew Obiagba, has stressed the need for Nigerians to remain united and patriotic for a better Nigeria.
Obiagba, a fiction author, made the call at the unveiling of his new book, “Let’s Be One”, in Bwari, Abuja.
Advising Nigerians against the dangers of disunity and corruption, he said the book was a clarion call to Nigerians and African nations to awaken to greatness and comity.
“That Africans were once enslaved, colonised and exploited, is not enough reason to remain where we are today; our natural and human resources are immeasurable.
“Nigerians are highly intelligent and industrious with capacity to place the nations at global space, therefore, no matter the class conflicts, differences in tribes or religion, our common vision, unity and oneness is key to bringing the expected growth and development in line with our current national anthem,’’ he said.
Display of the book, Let’s Be One, by Andrew Obiagba at the presentation and launch in Bwari.
The author explained that the book studied two youths who had a common vision and dream for a viable, strong and reliable nation, renown for effective and efficient governance.
He said that self-will and selfishness stole the noble vision, forcefully bringing them both to unite and find a lasting solution to the already made havoc.
“The solution is what the monarchical system of governance in the book represents, which is a selfless leadership; people-driven leadership and all-inclusive participation in governance,” he said.
Earlier, the book reviewer, Mr Theophilus Chigudu, described the book, “Let’s Be One” as a socio-political allegory that merged fiction, history and moral philosophy to interrogate the crises of leadership.
According to him, it also interrogates the crisis of identity and unity in a post-colonial Nigeria and Africa in general.
“This book couldn’t have been written in a better time than now as our country itself still struggles for identity revolving around leadership.
“The writer deployed fiction as a mirror for social reality, particularly, the contradiction of African modality and the failures of leadership.”
Chigudu added that the book title was both an appeal and a thesis that encapsulates the author’s central message of disunity, corruption and external manipulation which has remained Africa’s greatest obstacle to progress.
He also said that the book narrated how political ambition and moral decay threatened the soul of a nation blessed with immense potential.
“It showcased the dangers of disunity, while still promoting patriotism, moral integrity and values, which are all needed in modern governance.
“I recommend strongly that this book be read by students of political science, history and Nigerians in general,’’ he said.
He further described the book as a bold and thought-provoking work by the author, saying it “seeks to awaken Nigerians and Africans at large, to consciousness”.
Mr John Gabaya, Chairman of Bwari Area Council, unveiling the book, described the author as a remarkable and diligent staff of the council.
Gabaya expressed pride in the author’s work, while promising to ensure that the book received wider patronage.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that family members of the author, church members and staff of the council were among invited guests at the occasion. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Deborah Coker
