Constantly baffled by the question: why?

I am a Nigerian.

A simply stated fact that can send most non-Nigerians running for cover to the near by hills.

That word often symbolizes the fear and dread of what is often misunderstood about the average Nigerian - a creature of unparalleled strength and persistence.

As a quote from the last leg of the matrix trilogy where Agent smith at the zenith of his powers asks Neo why in spite of the beatings that he has taken, why he continues to persist and Neo's answer: Because I choose to.

The Nigerian is a creature of parallels - mired in the constant struggle of survival.
The bottom line is to try to stay ahead at all times and thus he will fight tooth and nail, to the bitter end just to keep his lead - even when it has no bearing on his plan.

A Nigerian's motto is: I must always stay ahead.

This is evident in everything and I mean everything.
Driving, at work, even at play (in fact the word play should be substituted or replaced with competition), there is rarely any room for relaxation.

Fifty cent's motto comes mind: get rich or die trying (another twist could be get rich at all costs - the average Nigerian fears death - but then again who doesn't?)

We are stuck on beaten tracks of survival: where the gains are never enough and can be taken from one in the twinkle of an eye. Hence the need to steal more, earn more and bend every rule in the process (in our case we break as many as possible and invent new rules as we go along.)

The Nigerian is a paradox.

Or else how can you explain an armed robber who goes on fasting and prayer sessions to ensure the success of a robbery operation?

Or better still - a police man who routinely breaks the law he is sworn to uphold and protect?

A Nigerian swindler (known by the acclaimed label of 419) who will defraud any unlucky fellow who falls into the trap of sudden easy wealth...

There are so many example to chose from...

But the major question is: why?

Why do policemen collect bribes?
Why do Nigerians give bribes?
Why do we have constant blackouts - with shouts of NEPA or PHCN filling the air like a liturgy?
Why are we constantly in a hurry?
Why are we under paid and over utilized?
Why are are working hours terrible?
Why is the transport system so bad?
Why are there so many cases of insecurity around us afflicting so many poeple daily?
Why do we persist in being corrupt?

The list is endless and yet it barely covers all the ills.

I am not an advocate of a perfect world (that's the definition of heaven) - I am however an advocate of a world of balance...

Something that we seriously lack...