Camera or Lending a Hand to Help: The Weight of Witnessing

As I sit here, reflecting on the events that unfolded at Giri, close to the University of Abuja, I am reminded of the complexities of human nature. A young life, full of promise and potential, lay dying on the side of the road. And what did the bystanders do? They gathered, they watched, and they took pictures.

The irony is not lost on me. We live in a world where the value of a life is often measured by the number of likes and shares it receives on social media. We are more concerned with capturing the perfect shot than with lending a helping hand.

I am reminded of the story of Kevin Carter, the South African photojournalist who captured the iconic image of a vulture watching a starving child in Sudan. The image sparked outrage and debate, with many questioning Carter's decision to take the photo instead of helping the child.

But what about the bystanders at Giri? What about the people who stood by and watched as a young life slipped away? Do we not bear some responsibility for our inaction?

The weight of witnessing is a heavy burden to bear. It requires us to confront the harsh realities of our world and to take action. It requires us to be more than just passive observers, but to be active participants in the pursuit of justice and humanity.

As I reflect on the events at Giri, I am left with more questions than answers. What does it say about us as a society when we prioritize taking pictures over taking action? What does it say about our values and our priorities?

The weight of witnessing is a weight that we all must bear. It is a reminder that our actions, or lack thereof, have consequences. It is a reminder that we have the power to create change, to make a difference, and to save a life.

Let us not forget the young life that was lost at Giri. Let us not forget the weight of witnessing that we all bear. And let us not forget the power that we have to create change and to make a difference.