Fuel scarcity, hunger not Nigerians’ problems, but… Paul Okoye

Paul Okoye, a renowned musician and one-half of the iconic duo Psquare, has raised an observation about Nigeria’s societal dynamics, pinpointing competition as a central issue stifling creativity in the country.

Okoye, while speaking on how unhealthy competition keeps tearing Nigerian society apart, asserted that the nation’s challenges extend beyond the realms of hunger, fuel scarcity, economic downturns, or the high cost of living.

Instead, he identified the pervasive culture of competition, where individuals incessantly vie to outdo one another, as the crux of the matter.

With a tone that blends insight with a touch of resignation, Okoye emphasised the futility of what he described as an endless race for superiority.

In his view, the obsession with one-upmanship detracts from the fostering of genuine creativity and innovation, which are essential for societal progress.

To further drive home his point, Okoye highlighted the absurdity of the situation by illustrating scenarios where the affluent engage in contentious debates over the plight of the less privileged.

“Naija no get problem. Hunger, fuel, and economy, cost of living etc is not their problem. Their problem na competition. Who get pass. No wahala. As February no March, April of May.

“No be everything be competition!!! Imagine the rich discussing and arguing about the poør as per who poor pass. Who dey drink garri without sugar and who dey drink akamu without milk”.

He urged Nigerians to reassess their values and priorities, advocating a shift from the culture of relentless competition towards one of collaboration and empathy.