The recent controversy surrounding Anthony Kila, who has been introduced as "Professor Anthony Kila" despite lacking verification of his professorial rank, has sparked a national conversation about the value of titles and substance in Nigerian society. According to a Premium Times investigation, Kila's claimed title from the European Centre for Advanced and Professional Studies could not be verified. This has raised questions about how Kila was able to maintain this facade for years.
The issue with Kila's credentials goes beyond his personal actions, as it highlights a broader societal problem. The Yoruba proverb "A kì í wo aṣọ ẹni tó ń san gbèsè ẹni" translates to not inspecting the garment of the man paying our debt, reflecting a culture of convenience and prioritization of benefits over scrutiny. This has allowed individuals like Kila to thrive, as they provide what modern media craves: soundbites, fluency, and confidence.
The media landscape in Nigeria has contributed to the proliferation of impostors like Kila. With many media houses struggling to pay salaries, reporters often fund assignments from their pockets, and editors face financial pressures. This environment creates opportunities for individuals like Kila to exploit, as they offer a convenient solution to the media's needs. The emphasis on titles and appearances can lead to a culture of deception.
John Swinton, the former Chief of Staff of The New York Times, made a striking confession in 1880 about the role of the press. He stated that the press is not independent but rather a tool for wealthy men behind the scenes, saying "We are the tools and vassals of rich men behind the scenes. They pull the strings, and we dance." This statement remains relevant today, as the media continues to grapple with issues of integrity and independence.
The Kila conundrum is not just about one individual but rather a reflection of societal priorities. When a society rewards titles more than scholarship, title merchants emerge. The public's willingness to accept and promote individuals like Kila without scrutiny has contributed to the problem. This has led to a culture where individuals feel pressured to present a certain image or title, rather than focusing on actual achievements.
The issue of Kila's credentials has also raised questions about the role of institutions in verifying and validating claims. The university where Kila serves as Pro-Chancellor, Michael and Cecilia Ibru University, has stated that it has no evidence that he is not a professor. However, this statement reverses the burden of proof, which typically rests on the individual claiming the title.
Ultimately, the Kila conundrum serves as a reminder of the need for a cultural shift in Nigerian society. By prioritizing substance over titles and appearances, individuals can work towards creating a more honest and transparent environment. As Swinton's statement continues to resonate, it is clear that the media and society as a whole must strive for greater integrity and accountability.
Key points
- 1. The controversy surrounding Anthony Kila highlights a broader societal problem of prioritizing titles over substance. 2. The media landscape in Nigeria contributes to the proliferation of impostors like Kila. 3. A cultural shift is needed in Nigerian society to prioritize substance over titles and appearances.
