I weep for Nigeria because of the low mentality and vainglorious leadership with which we are sadly and unfortunately saddled. E...
I weep for Nigeria because of the low mentality and vainglorious leadership with which we are sadly and unfortunately saddled. Even young people who have found themselves at the helm of leadership have unfortunately caught the bug, leaving only a faint glimmer of hope.
This morning, as I took a walk around the streets of Ugep—as is customary for me whenever I am around, to relate with the people, greet them, shake hands, and gain firsthand knowledge of how they are faring and coping with their struggles of survival in these hard times—I heard sirens blaring from a convoy of vehicles. Curious to know who the “big man” was, I asked, and someone whispered to me that it was a member of the Cross River State House of Assembly. I was aghast, saddened, and amazed at the same time by how low we have descended.
What entitles a member of the House of Assembly to use sirens? None. It is simply backwardness, lack of enlightenment, poor upbringing, small-mindedness, and power drunkenness all rolled into one on full display.
Under the laws of Nigeria, only the following public officials are entitled to have sirens blaring, accompanied by convoys and entourage, with flashers or beacon lights while driving on public roads:
- The President
- The Vice President
- Governors
- Deputy Governors
- The Chief Justice of Nigeria
- The Senate President
- The Deputy Senate President
- The Speaker of the House of Representatives
- The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives
- Speakers of State Houses of Assembly
Emergency and Special Service Vehicles
In addition to the listed officials, certain agencies are authorized to use sirens, but primarily during emergencies or rescue operations:
- Military and paramilitary agencies
- The Police
- Fire services
- Hospital ambulances
- Civil protection agencies
- Other rescue vehicles
Any other government or non-government official, including ministers, service chiefs, and traditional rulers, are not legally permitted to use sirens unless in an actual emergency or with a special permit from the police. The misuse of sirens by unauthorized persons is an offense punishable by law.
Conclusion
The abuse of sirens by unauthorized officials is not just a breach of law but a reflection of the deeper malaise of arrogance and ignorance in our leadership culture. Until we return to discipline, respect for the rule of law, and humility in service, Nigeria will continue to suffer from this cycle of misplaced priorities and vainglorious displays of power.
@ Okoi Obono-Obla
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