A veteran journalist who transitioned to academia has shared his startling experiences, revealing a deep disillusionment with the state of Nigerian universities. In a candid conversation with Gleaner, the reader, identified as Professor Owojecho Omoha, described the academic environment as rife with what he terms 'academic bandits,' far worse than any encountered in journalism.
The Shocking Reality of Academia
When asked about his initial reaction to the classroom, the reader stated, 'Only 3 per cent of the entire population of the academic (and non-academic) personnel is resolutely ruthless, when it comes to nation-building. 97 per cent of the population consists of bandits.' He explained that this realization forced him to develop a 'self-defensive-mind-tightening bunker' to survive. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing the nation over personal gain, warning that without a strong nation, there is no location for anyone.
Journalism vs. Academia: A Comparative Analysis
The reader, who practiced journalism from 1980 to 2007, noted that while bandits exist in both fields, those in academia are far more horrible. 'The bandits in academia, in our universities, are really horrible. The bandits in journalism are inferior to those in our universities,' he asserted. He criticized academia for shying away from truth, a fundamental principle in journalism. 'The world hates the truth, something journalism basically acknowledges, and does not shy away from dwelling on. Our academia is inferior to journalism in this wise.'
The Battle for Truth
Despite his disillusionment, the reader remains committed to confronting academic bandits. He declared, 'Where I am now in the university as a professor, I mercilessly deal with academic bandits.' He also reflected on his foray into politics, where he encountered similar challenges. 'When I strayed into politics… and I found myself in the Intervention Group, intervening in all human circumstances, again, I encountered bandits in their extremity.'
A Call for Action
The reader expressed hope for change in 2027, but cautioned that prayer without action is self-deceit. 'We have deceived ourselves for too long in Nigeria – and especially in our academia!' he lamented. He called for a rejection of the 'namu, namu' culture that destroys the essence of scholarship and nation-building. 'Incompetence and even less mediocre fellows should and must be disallowed from messing us up henceforth.'
The conversation concluded with the reader agreeing to provide further insights at a later date, promising to elaborate on his theory of an efficient journalist and an effective scholar. He affirmed his faith in the Gleaner's judgment and expressed willingness to have his identity disclosed, confident that his statements are not libelous.
