Humanitarianism diminished by wanton greed

Since the Federal Government of Nigeria made the public declaration to change the currency, we have witnessed the exposé of money (in different currencies/denominations) stashed away in septic tanks (soak aways), burial grounds, gardens, cupboards, empty houses, etc. Some people have suddenly become globe-trotters helping to l*under the money.

My question is – do these hoarders have conscience? Majority are supposed to be legislators who have robbed the treasury blind without thinking of the wellbeing of the average Nigerians. Some of these hoarders have families who have approached them for help but would have turned the other cheek claiming to be skint. Others have siphoned money meant to be used to improve the wellbeing of the community. There are local business men and women just seeking pittance to start up their businesses but unfortunately, they have been denied any form of financial assistance.

There are several credible and charitable organisations seeking sponsorships, but when they approach the so-called rich people, you get a response such as – “what is in it for me?” Where is humanity in what we do? The last time I checked, you can only sleep in one bed at a time, drive one car at a time, live in one house at a time, be in one place at a time. Perhaps, one also needs to remind these callous individuals that the coffin also takes one person at a time. You cannot make someone die instead of you or take along special assistants with you or any of the ill-gotten wealth to the grave.

The best gift to humanity is to leave an enduring legacy. Empower people, invest in people, transform the lives of people. Establish initiatives worthy of emulation.

We come with nothing, we go with nothing. Learn to give when you are in a position to, not rob people of what belongs to a whole community or nation and expect to be respected. Many are those with ill-gotten wealth without good health.
I leave you with the following Quotes –

(1) In a country well governed, poverty is something to be ashamed of. In a country badly governed, wealth is something to be ashamed of. (Confucius).

(2) The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively. (Bob Marley) .

(3)) Help others and give something back. I guarantee you will discover that while public service improves the lives and the world around you, its greatest reward is the enrichment and new meaning it will bring your own life. (Arnold Schwarzenegger).

(4) To be a philanthropist, you don’t have to be Nelson Mandela. You just have to look around you and ask, ‘What little bit can I do? Whose life can I touch?’ (Priyanka Chopra).

Fatusin, Freelance writer and Convener/Founder of Renewing the African Mindset (RAM) – platform for discussing African social & political issues.