Nigeria in the ICU: Hon. Gogo Ogute Calls for Prayers Over a Nation in Crisis

 As Nigeria approaches another Independence Day celebration, a voice from Rivers State has delivered a message that cuts through the noise of politics and pageantry.

In an exclusive online conversation on Sunday, September 28, 2025, with Geoffrey Ekpu Ekpu of BigChiefVibes Media, Hon. Dr. Gogo Ogute Isaiah, former caretaker chairman of Andoni Local Government Area, offered a sobering assessment of the country’s condition and urged citizens to focus on what he believes is the only true remedy: prayer.

In his words,“What I can solicit from any living beings in this country to have for Nigeria is prayer,” Dr. Gogo declared during the chat. “Nigeria is currently in the ICU. The elites are our major problem. For me as a person, I will say, there is no joy to continue to celebrate the birthday of a child who could not walk out of the 3rd world feeding bottle. Getting involved with anyone to discuss Nigeria issues is of no use.”

His choice of words carries heavy meaning. By describing Nigeria as a patient in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Dr. Gogo paints a picture of a nation in critical condition—alive, but dependent on urgent attention for survival. The ICU metaphor signals that the country is neither healthy nor stable, but instead hanging by a thread while the powerful few—the elites—continue to tighten their grip on its future.

According to Dr. Gogo, these privileged actors have not only slowed Nigeria’s growth but have also undermined any real chance of independence. He argues that after more than six decades of self-rule, the nation still struggles to provide basic necessities, while a small class of well-connected individuals enjoys the wealth and influence meant for the collective good.

The former caretaker chairman deepened his critique with another striking image, describing Nigeria as a “child who could not walk out of the third world feeding bottle.” To him, this represents a country that, despite its age and resources, remains dependent and underdeveloped—unable to stand on its own or escape the limitations of a third-world status. “There is no joy to continue to celebrate the birthday of a child who could not walk,” he said, questioning the meaning of lavish independence celebrations when development remains elusive.

Dr. Gogo’s remarks echo the frustration of millions of Nigerians who have grown weary of endless promises without tangible progress. While some may call for heated political debates or aggressive civic action, he insists that dialogue and endless discussions have lost their value. Instead, he calls for a spiritual intervention—prayer—as the only path forward. To him, divine guidance is the last lifeline for a country where leaders repeatedly fail to deliver.

This call for prayer is not simply a religious statement; it reflects a deeper cultural reality. Nigeria remains one of the most religious nations on earth, with faith woven into the daily lives of its people. By urging citizens to pray, Dr. Gogo is tapping into a spiritual tradition that unites Nigerians across ethnic, political, and regional divides. It is an appeal that may resonate more deeply than yet another political speech or campaign slogan.

For the people of Andoni and Rivers State, Dr. Gogo’s words carry additional weight. Though no longer in office, his willingness to speak hard truths shows a brand of leadership that goes beyond holding titles. His message is not about political advantage; it is about confronting a painful reality that too many prefer to ignore.

In highlighting prayer as the last resort, he also challenges ordinary citizens to rethink their role. Even when it feels as though corruption and political stagnation are insurmountable, individuals can still act—if not through protests or ballots, then through collective faith and moral awakening.

As October 1st, Nigeria’s Independence Day, draws near, the former chairman’s message stands as both a warning and a call to reflection. It forces the question: what exactly are Nigerians celebrating when the economy remains fragile, insecurity persists, and infrastructure continues to crumble? His statement invites a moment of national introspection, urging citizens to look beyond fireworks and parades toward the deeper work of healing a wounded nation.

Whether one agrees with his belief that prayer is the sole solution or not, the stark imagery of a country in the ICU cannot be easily ignored. Dr. Gogo’s comments capture the mood of many who feel that Nigeria’s journey from colonial rule to genuine self-reliance has stalled. His words remind us that survival is no longer guaranteed, and that without urgent change—whether spiritual, political, or both—the patient may not recover.

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BigChiefVibes Voice

At BigChiefVibes Media, we bring you unfiltered conversations that matter. Hon. Dr. Gogo Ogute Isaiah’s heartfelt plea is more than just another political soundbite—it is a wake-up call to every Nigerian. His message is a challenge to leaders, citizens, and communities alike to stop pretending all is well and start seeking lasting solutions.

As Independence Day approaches, we invite you to share your thoughts.

 Do you believe prayer alone can heal Nigeria, or must citizens demand stronger action from those in power?

Drop your opinions in the comment section below and let your voice join the national conversation.

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Ekpu Code:

“A nation that forgets to pray forgets its heartbeat; a people that refuse to act lose their tomorrow.”

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