An attempt by Umar Farouk Abdul Mutallab, a Nigerian, to detonate an explosive aboard an American airliner, has sent shockwaves round the globe. The failed attempt which has led to further tightening of security in all airports is having a far reaching rippling effect, with diplomatic row between the two countries feared to be in the offing.
Based on this, Daily Sun went to town to sample the opinion of Nigerians on the development and the possible danger it portends for Nigeria’s image.
Excerpts:
It’s detrimental to the welfare of Nigerians abroad: Pastor Pius Osombor
When I heard about it, I felt sad. The situation is detrimental to the welfare of Nigerians. I am concerned about Nigerians living abroad, especially in the United States of America. They would definitely be treated badly, as citizens from a terrorist country. This development is not about Muslim fanaticism. It is about an individual deciding to use himself as a tool for destruction. The boy was used to disgrace Nigeria.
I really feel bad about this. My prayer is that God should the heart of the Americans so that they won’t use this as a yardstick against our brothers abroad.
Nigeria is not a terrorist country: Vincent Uche
The way and manner it happened, it would definitely have a negative effect on Nigeria’s image. Though Nigeria as a country has always been viewed negatively, we are not a terrorist country. We are just unfortunate at this stage.
American would no longer respect Nigeria: Biodun Adedokun
This can destroy Nigeria’s image completely. Americans would not respect Nigeria again. Somebody like that boy should not be among living people. It is a big problem for us. The young man should be thoroughly dealt with.
It is a big stain: Humphrey Haruna
It would further destroy Nigeria’s image. It is a big stain that would take time to clear. For such a boy from a rich family to embark on that type of mission, he must be possessed. He needs help.
No right thinking individual would support a terrorist act: Orji Ikechukwu
When you hear about Al-Qaeda, the first thing that would come to your mind is Muslim. But we should not forget that Nigeria is a secular state, not a Muslim state. What I am trying to say is that Nigeria does not engage in this type of act carried out by this boy. If he had succeeded, innocent lives would have been lost. No right thinking individual would support a terrorist act. It is not good for us. We are talking about re-branding Nigeria’s image. Now, look at what has happened.
Nigeria would be seen as a terrorist country: Oluwadare Happiness
The boy is talented and has ability but was channelled into a wrong course. We have such people in Nigeria but because of the nonchalant attitude of our leaders, they waste away, while those that want to be very useful get involved in things that can destroy their lives. Presently, what that boy did is like a black stain. The world would now see us as a terrorist country. Our youths have potentials that should be well harnessed. If not, the result would be this type of shame.
Why go to America?: Alhaji Yakubu Usman
Nigeria is definitely finished internationally. Terrorists don’t rely on religion to work. They can use either a Christian or Muslim that has a willing heart. My question is, why go to the America when we have corrupt leaders that should fall victims. It is unfortunate that this is happening at a time our image is battered. Once he is okay, the American government should deal with him according to their law. Can you imagine the number of passengers on that flight and what could have happened to their family if the boy had succeeded? Why didn’t he blow up his family?
The boy is frustrated: Friday Ehis
I don’t think the boy’s attempt to blow up an American plane has anything to do with Al-Qaeda. Maybe, the boy is frustrated. I don’t think the action would have a negative effect on Nigeria’s image because the whole world knows that we don’t support terrorism. He carried out the attack on his own. According to his confession, he was taught to operate the device but really couldn’t do it. We are a peaceful country. We want peace and not destruction.
It would add to our battered image: David Ahamefula
It would add to our already battered image. Al-Qaeda infiltrating Nigeria is out of it. They must not be in Nigeria to use Nigerians for their operation. All these fanatics can use anybody that is willing to carry out their devilish acts.
A Nigerian doesn’t have any business with terrorists: Sanni Yakubu
We are not happy that everything in this country is going bad. The government is very sick. There is no food and petrol. Crime is increasing daily and now this. We need Allah’s help now. A Nigerian doesn’t have any business with terrorists. Our faith does not support shedding of innocent blood for no just cause. We should thank Allah that the young man did not succeed. If he had succeeded, all of us would have been in serious trouble.
Nigerians should pray: Blessing Nwanchukwu
It is a pity that while we are trying to cover our bad image, others are busy exposing it. I was extremely shocked when I heard the news. The boy is too small to think of such devilish act. He is not alone in the act. Nigerians should pray because these are the signs of the end.
Hijacking hasn’t been part of Nigeria: Marcel Onwuka
There must be reason behind his action. He must have carried out the operation with serious grudge. Hijacking has not been part of Nigeria. He must be collaborating with some people because I can’t imagine how he managed to escape from all the airport’s screening devices.
The boy needs deliverance: Kindness Nkiru
I don’t think such person is a Nigerian. For goodness sake, the boy is just 23 and is too young to carry out such critical assignment. He is not a good citizen. The boy needs deliverance
Saturday, January 2, 2010
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