Opinion
By Johnson Daniel
For BoldNEWS Africa
A nation’s greatest asset is neither its natural resources, political institutions, nor technological advancement. Its greatest strength lies in the quality of reasoning, sound judgment, and critical thinking of its citizens.
The recent announcement of the rescue of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State has generated widespread public reactions. Public scrutiny is both natural and necessary in a democracy. However, the nature of some of the conversations also reveals a disturbing trend: many people appear increasingly willing to reach conclusions before the facts are fully established. Such a culture weakens critical thinking, blurs the line between evidence and speculation, and ultimately reduces society’s ability to pursue genuine progress.
Delusion is more than believing something that is false. In a broader societal context, it is the acceptance of narratives despite insufficient or contradictory evidence. It is the willingness to ignore reality in favour of comforting illusions, propaganda, rumours, blind loyalty, or emotional manipulation.
The many questions surrounding the rescued children’s white hijabs, their appearance, the change from school uniforms, the location where the rescue video was recorded, and perceived differences between their current appearance and earlier photographs have dominated public discussions. While asking questions is legitimate and even necessary, arriving at definitive conclusions without verified evidence is neither responsible nor helpful.
A society driven by delusion gradually begins to reward propaganda over competence. Citizens become more interested in defending preconceived beliefs than demanding measurable performance from those entrusted with public responsibilities. Public discourse shifts from evidence-based analysis to emotional arguments, while facts become secondary to personal opinions.
As reason declines, accountability also weakens. Leaders are no longer judged primarily by the quality of their governance or the outcomes they deliver, but by emotional appeal, carefully crafted narratives, political loyalty, or social divisions. When common sense gives way to assumptions and conspiracy theories, society’s challenges inevitably deepen.
It is equally important to recognise that sensitive security operations require careful handling. Information concerning rescued victims should ordinarily be processed, verified, and communicated in accordance with established security protocols. Authorities may also need to consult relevant professionals and, where appropriate, engage family members before making public presentations. Such procedures protect victims, preserve the integrity of ongoing investigations, and strengthen public confidence. Unfortunately, these realities are often overlooked in the rush to satisfy public curiosity or reinforce existing biases.
The consequence is that governance increasingly becomes measured by perception rather than performance. Success is no longer assessed through tangible improvements in security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, or economic opportunity, but by narratives that merely satisfy emotions and political preferences.
The economic consequences are equally significant. Innovation thrives where critical thinking, creativity, and the courage to question assumptions are encouraged. A population trapped in misinformation, irrational thinking, and ideological rigidity becomes less innovative, less productive, and less competitive in an increasingly knowledge-driven global economy.
Democracy also suffers. Elections gradually become contests of sentiment rather than informed judgment. Political campaigns rely more on misinformation, condemnation of opponents, ethnic and religious sentiments, and financial inducements than credible policies, practical solutions, and measurable achievements.
Social media and the news media therefore carry enormous responsibility. Journalism exists to illuminate facts, provide context, and hold power accountable—not to amplify falsehoods or fuel public hysteria. When misinformation spreads unchecked, or when the pursuit of popularity replaces the pursuit of truth, citizens become less equipped to make informed decisions.
Every citizen has a responsibility. Before sharing information, ask whether it has been verified. Before defending an action, ask whether the available evidence justifies that position. Before rejecting an opposing view, examine the facts objectively rather than emotionally.
Progress begins with reason. A society that values truth, evidence, critical inquiry, and respectful dialogue builds stronger institutions, attracts investment, encourages innovation, and produces leaders who understand that public office is a sacred responsibility rather than a personal privilege.
A nation does not decline simply because it lacks resources. It declines when reason is abandoned, truth is ignored, and performance is sacrificed on the altar of illusion. The path to national progress begins with citizens who choose evidence over emotion, facts over rumours, and accountability over blind loyalty.
(C) BoldNEWS Africa
About the Author
