**The Wake-Up Call We Need** Nigerians are no strangers to despair, but it seems some celebrities are now sounding the alarm, urging us to take a hard look at the state of our nation. Former Super Eagles striker, Emmanuel Emenike, is the latest to join the chorus, with a stark message that should leave us all thinking. In a scathing post on social media, Emenike lamented the sorry state of Nigeria, where kidnappings are on the rise, and speaking out against the status quo can land you in trouble. He questioned how our country, blessed with abundant resources, can't seem to find its way out of the quagmire. He noted that our leaders seem more concerned with lining their pockets than serving the people. This is not the first time a prominent Nigerian has spoken out against the injustices plaguing our nation. Kanayo Kanayo, Davido, Toyin Abraham, Iyabo Ojo, and even Wizkid's son, Boluwatife, have all shared their concerns, calling for action and change. They're not just crying out for attention; they're sounding the alarm, warning us that something is seriously wrong. We've seen the devastating effects of banditry, terrorism, and corruption on our communities. We've suffered the pain of losing loved ones to senseless violence. And still, we're expected to keep quiet, to keep going to church and shouting 'fire' every day, as Emenike so aptly put it. But it's time to wake up, Nigerians. It's time to demand better. We owe it to ourselves, our children, and our future. We have the resources, the talent, and the potential to be a better country. What we lack is the will to change. Our leaders must be held accountable for their actions, and we must demand more from them. It's time to put aside our differences and come together as one people, to fight for a brighter future. As Emenike so eloquently put it, "If you believe in a better country in the hands of your oppressors, you are dreaming." Let's not dream; let's wake up, and let's take action. Our country is counting on us.