IGALA KINGDOM: RECONCILING A GREAT PAST WITH AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE
By ONOJA J. OKPANACHI
There has been much talk and many articles about the glorious past of the Igala people, the greatness of the kingdom, and its numerous conquests in various battles. Discussions about its origins and spread across the country and the world are also prevalent. However, these stories of the past sharply contrast with today’s realities. The people are so preoccupied with reminiscing about this history that they neglect the present, which sends a dangerous signal for the future.
Unfortunately, many of these narratives have generated resentment in some quarters due to the “irresponsible” and “unscholarly” manner in which they are often presented. The arrogance in the tone of certain writers and their inconsistent analyses raise critical questions. The approach of these “great story” promoters undermines the essence of these historical records, which should inspire and challenge people to improve. Yet, at the end of each story, a fundamental question arises for the concerned observer: What happened to the people whose past was so great, but whose current situation reflects none of that glory?
Honest answers to this contradiction reveal that past generations were likely more intelligent and forward-thinking than today’s Igala, despite the technological advancements and “civilization” we enjoy. These stories also suggest that the Igala people of the past were more open to growth, embraced change, and were more accommodating. Today, however, the opposite is true—the rate of internal division has reached extreme levels. These divides continue to widen, and as a result, the people are losing on many fronts. The unity that once brought economic growth, expansion, and conquest has vanished, with everyone now looking out for themselves.
One glaring truth today is that while the land is producing individual giants in various fields, it remains a dwarf in the committee of nations due to a lack of unity. The nations Igala once lent money to are now far ahead economically, making the history of such lending difficult to believe without evidence. The kingdoms it once conquered have grown into giants that Igala can no longer stand shoulder-to-shoulder with. The difference is so stark that even the blind can see it. Yet, instead of being challenged by the past to wake up, we remain complacent, basking in the glory of past victories, to the detriment of the present—and ultimately, the future.
The painful reality calls for urgent reorientation. It is crucial to recognize that the lack of leadership has already cost the kingdom dearly. This is why reorientation must become a priority. The recent trend of considering the wealthy as leaders is both erroneous and deceptive. Any nation that equates leadership with financial worth will struggle to make progress. Wealth is merely complementary to leadership, and this is a call for the wealthy to genuinely contribute to the land without seeking political favor. This mentality has shaped a poor understanding of true leadership. Leadership is natural, given by the people without objection, and is not confined to occupying an office. Rather, it is demonstrated by the management of situations and developments for the common good. One of the key ways to secure good leadership is by respecting elders and experienced individuals within the land.
As it stands, there is no future for the kingdom because the present is being neglected. The land does not take its best seriously. It encourages the rise of sudden millionaires who dominate the political scene every four years, only to disappear afterward. The land is overly emotional, lacks critical thinking, and is not deliberate about addressing key issues. Everything seems to be on autopilot, and without competent leaders at the helm, the future looks bleak. Let the people of the land embrace humility and allow true leadership to emerge. Not everyone can lead at once, and only by purging ourselves of self-centeredness and allowing humility into our system can we once again enjoy true leadership.
ARISE!
