Few example will suffice. On July 31, 2018, a security guard with United Bank for Africa (UBA) in Lagos, Ibrahim Ogbanago, an Igala son, returned $10,000 mistakenly left behind by a customer of the bank. In appreciation, the federal government led by Muhammadu Buhari, conferred a national award on him on October 11, 2022.
Equally, on the eve of the November 11 Kogi governorship election, news leaked out that results were being forged in Kogi Central. Despite immense pressure to engage in similar tactics, Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, an Igala son and the governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), vehemently refused and forbade his agents and supporters from rigging the election.
He insisted on strict adherence to the voting machines (Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS)) provided and mandated by the authorities. Though the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared his opponent the winner despite the blatant electoral irregularities, Ajaka did not resort to violence or self-help. He chose to pursue due process through legal channels.
Similarly, on December 23, 2023, Nigerians woke up to yet another story of remarkable integrity, again, an Igala son, Dr. Ugbedeojo Nelson Peter, a senior lecturer at Kogi State University. Upon receiving an unexpected deposit of ₦5,850,000 into his account, Dr. Peter, recognizing the money as being deposited in error, immediately initiated the process of returning it.
The source of this strong sense of integrity likely lies in a confluence of factors. Igala culture places a profound emphasis on ethical living, weaving values like honesty, truthfulness, and respect for others into the very tapestry of everyday life. Proverbs, folktales, and community traditions act as constant reminders, shaping the moral compass of young minds. Parents play a critical role, actively instilling the importance of doing the right thing, regardless of circumstance.
Beyond individual families, the broader Igala community fosters an environment that celebrates and rewards ethical behavior. Social norms and expectations firmly discourage dishonesty, creating a supportive network where individuals feel empowered to act with integrity. This collective value system acts as a guiding force, reinforcing the innate human desire for good and discouraging transgressions.
Ultimately, each individual makes their own choices. While upbringing and environment play a significant role, the decision to act with honesty in challenging situations rests with the individual. Ogbanago, Ajaka, and Dr. Peter all demonstrated remarkable personal character and moral conviction, showcasing the power of individual conscience in shaping ethical behavior.
These inspiring stories offer a much-needed counterpoint to narratives that often paint a negative picture of Nigeria. They showcase the abundance of good within the country and inspire others to act with honesty in their own lives, even in seemingly small situations. Furthermore, they present an opportunity for introspection and collective action. By understanding the factors that contribute to the Igala spirit of integrity, we can explore ways to cultivate similar values within our own communities. This can involve strengthening family values, promoting ethical education, and fostering social environments that celebrate and reward honesty.
The stories of Ogbanago, Ajaka, and Dr. Peter are not just heartwarming anecdotes; they are a call to action. By embracing the lessons learned from the Igala people, we can collectively work towards building a future where integrity is not just an individual virtue, but a cornerstone of our society. As Dr. Peter eloquently stated, “The money is not mine, so I’m not supposed to tamper with it… That’s the kind of value that was inculcated in us growing up.” Let us all strive to nurture these values within ourselves and our communities, paving the way for a brighter, more ethical future, where the Igala spirit of honesty serves as a beacon for all.
Omonu YG Nelson is the CEO of Highland Media Ltd, publishers of Summit Post Newspaper