”Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” declared Martin Luther King Jr.. George Washington aptly noted that “to be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace, but to be fair is the only way to deserve it.” These timeless assertions remind us that fairness is not merely a social courtesy but the bedrock of a functioning civilization and the truest reflection of our collective moral compass. Let’s reflect on the profound impact of choosing to be fair in an often prejudiced world.
Do you know that being fair is a high-selling brand in a society saturated with systemic abuse and the worship of individuals over institutions? In the Nigerian political lansldscape where many have become accustomed to “corner-cutting,” bypassing due process, or prioritizing parochial gains over the common wealth, the individual who remains steadfastly impartial stands out as a rare, invaluable asset. Whether within the corridors of power in Abuja, the demanding boardroom meetings of Lagos, or our local religious and family units, the consistent choice to be fair showcases a unique humanity and an unwavering standard that transcends tribal or political affiliations. In Nigeria, where “who you know” often trumps “what you know,” your integrity becomes a hallmark that no amount of political marketing or “image laundering” can buy. However, you must be prepared to face the vitriol of those who prefer the fluidity of sycophancy over the rigidity of objective principles; they will view your fairness as a threat to their illicit shortcuts, but you must realize that the prevalence of darkness does not mandate the extinguishing of your light.
So, enhance your capacity to remain objective by intentionally separating personal sentiments from the hard facts of our national reality. This requires a radical commitment to treating every Nigerian with equal respect, regardless of their tongue, creed, or social status, and resisting the urge to interpret laws or rules through the lens of whoever is currently in power or whose interest you want to please. To truly embody fairness in this climate, you must be the one who insists on the right process even when “the Nigerian factor” makes a shortcut more enticing or popular. It demands a conscious decision to elevate merit over favouritism and truth over tribalism or political expediency, ensuring that your actions are guided by universal principles rather than the fleeting whims of political benefactors. When you consistently apply these high standards, you create a ripple effect that challenges the culture of impunity and encourages others to reconsider their own biases, eventually building a society where progress is predictable rather than accidental.
As you step out each day, carry the firm conviction that being fair is a non-negotiable component of a life well-lived and a nation well-built. By choosing to uphold justice in both your private dealings and public responsibilities, you contribute to a more equitable Nigeria and reinforce a personal legacy that will outlast any political office. May your commitment to fairness be the light that guides your path and inspires a greater sense of humanity in every citizen you encounter.
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Esang Esitikot is a professor of occupational health and safety, a registered chemical engineer, public affairs analyst, UN Ambassador for Peace, certified management consultant, and volunteer lecturer at the Institute of Health, Safety, Security and Environment, University of Uyo. He is a manager in the oil and gas industry and was recognized by Highstone Global University, USA as the occupational health and safety personality of 2024. He can be contacted via 08035103559 (Whatsapp only) or email (esitikot@gmail.com).
