By Dr Mike Udam
What is Desperation?
Desperation is a state of extreme hopelessness, where a person feels compelled to take extreme, often unethical, measures to survive or meet their needs. It arises when people feel trapped by circumstances—such as poverty, economic hardship, or societal pressures—and see no legitimate way out.
The Link Between a Bad Economy and Desperation
A failing economy breeds desperation. When jobs are scarce, wages are poor, and prices keep rising, people struggle to afford basic necessities. In such conditions, morality often takes a backseat to survival. The pressure to “make ends meet” pushes many into cutting corners, engaging in fraud, or even outright criminal acts—all in the name of putting food on the table.
How Poor Pay Leads to Corruption
When salaries are meager and delayed, workers resort to unethical means to supplement their income. A civil servant may demand bribes to process simple documents. A market trader might mix sand with beans to increase profit. A truck driver syphons fuel and replaces it with water, sabotaging vehicles just to make extra cash. The justification is always the same: “I have no choice.”
The Dangerous Consequences of Desperation
- Food Fraud & Health Risks
- Fruits are forced to ripen with harmful chemicals, poisoning consumers.
- Garri is no longer properly fermented, leading to health complications.
- Fake “chicken” (vulture meat) is sold in markets, deceiving buyers.
- Erosion of Trust
- People no longer believe in the integrity of products or services.
- Every transaction is met with suspicion—“Is this real or fake?”
- Political Manipulation
- Politicians, desperate to cling to power, rig elections years in advance.
- Governance becomes a game of self-interest rather than public service.
- Spiritual Hypocrisy
- Shockingly, 98% of those involved in these corrupt practices are “children of God.”
- They attend church, pray fervently, yet exploit others daily. The Severe Consequences of Desperation
- Shortage of Honest People: The few who refuse to compromise are seen as fools.
- Trust Deficit: Society crumbles when no one can be trusted—families, businesses, or leaders.
- Divine Judgment: God is not mocked. Those who exploit the poor, poison food, and rig systems will face consequences—if not in this life, then in eternity.
A Call to Return to Integrity
Desperation is understandable, but it is not an excuse for evil. History shows that societies that normalize corruption eventually collapse. The solution begins with:
- Personal Responsibility: Refusing to cut corners, no matter the pressure.
- Collective Action: Demanding better governance and economic policies.
- Spiritual Awakening: True faith should produce honesty, not hypocrisy.
If we don’t change, desperation will destroy us before poverty does. Choose integrity—before it’s too late.
Dr. Mike Udam
Teacher and Preacher
Ogoja Nigeria
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