Prof. Ebenezer Ejalonibu Lawal, a political scientist at Federal University, Lokoja (FUL), has urged Nigerians to balance prayer with practical action to drive national development. He delivered the message during the 41st inaugural lecture at FUL, themed "Paradox and problems of development: The pedestal and pragmatic of a political scientist." Lawal argued that excessive reliance on prayer, without corresponding effort, hinders progress in Nigeria and other underdeveloped nations. He stated that God granted humans intellect and ability to solve problems, and that these tools should be actively used rather than replaced by passive appeals to divine intervention.
Lawal identified a disconnect between aspirational development goals and real-world execution, calling it a paradox that must be continuously managed. He described the "pedestal" as representing ideals like good governance, rule of law, and inclusive growth, while "pragmatics" refer to the actual political actions that determine development outcomes. The professor stressed that both ideals and practical realities must be addressed to achieve meaningful progress. He urged academic engagement with development challenges to produce tangible results.
Earlier in the event, FUL Vice-Chancellor Prof. Gbenga Ibileye welcomed attendees and referenced George Orwell's critique of political language as "giving an appearance of solidity to pure wind." He humorously questioned whether the description applied to political scientists, including the lecturer.
A political scientist urging Nigerians to work more and pray less presents a contradiction in tone, given his own reliance on abstract theory over actionable solutions. The lecture criticized inaction but offered no concrete steps for citizens or institutions to follow. If intellect alone could fix Nigeria's problems, the country would already be developed.
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