[MSN] Nigeria in grave danger

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Nigeria in grave danger —SOYINKA
By Gabriel Enogholase
Posted to the Web: Monday, October 16, 2006



BENIN— NOBEL Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka reviewed, weekend, the
current political developments in the country and returned this
verdict: "We are in grave danger."
Prof. Soyinka, speaking to reporters at the maiden Benin Bronze
Exhibition, in Benin, Edo State said Nigeria was passing through "one
of the worst periods in our existence in the struggle for democracy."

His words: "Let me just say that it is always a relief to look at
artworks instead of being bombarded by the ugly faces and some of the
actions of our so-called rulers. It is indeed a spiritual tonic, just
for a change even if it is for a few hours. So, that is why I will not
bother to comment on what is happening in Nigeria today.

"But if you people don't watch out, you will find that you have a set
back for 50 years in terms of democratic struggles. This is one of the
worst periods in our existence in the struggle for democracy.

"The courts have been disobeyed. The constitution subverted. Nobody
says people shouldn't go after criminals, thieves and corrupt people.
We are all agreed on this. But if the methodology flouts the
constitution of the land or the law or the methods being used, then we
are in grave danger.

"What is used against the felons today will be used against the
innocent tomorrow. All I want to say right now about the situation in
the country is that democracy is being fouled up in a way that it is
of enormous danger to future generations."

Speaking earlier on the exposition of Benin Bronze works, Prof.
Soyinka said his heart bled each time he beheld art treasures stolen
from Benin and another parts of Nigeria being exhibited in private
museums in Europe and America.

"Each time I travel and see the heritage of this nation being
displayed in the galleries of other nations and private museums in
Europe and America, my heart bleeds. You will be astonished at our
treasures held in private museums," he said.
While calling for a progressive research into the number of Nigerian
bronze works outside the shores of the country, Prof Soyinka canvassed
the payment of reparation for the stolen artifacts.

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