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The Thin Line Between ‘Which is’ and ‘Witches’ — Prince Uzor Nwachukwu
The Thin Line Between ‘Which is’ and ‘Witches’ — Prince Uzor Nwachukwu
As Nigeria gradually approaches the 2027 general elections and political activities begin to gather momentum, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Abia State, Prince Uzor Nwachukwu, has drawn attention to what he describes as the “very thin line” between asking questions for clarity and deliberately spreading narratives capable of confusing, misleading and dividing society.
In a thought-provoking article titled “The Very Thin Line Between: ‘Which Is’ And ‘Witches’,” Nwachukwu explores the striking similarity between the two expressions while using the contrast to examine the increasingly contentious nature of political discourse.
The Commissioner begins by referencing the Cambridge Dictionary’s definition of a question as “a sentence, phrase, or gesture used to gather information, test knowledge, or prompt a reply.”
According to him, “which is” represents an inquiry designed to elicit answers, generate information, satisfy curiosity and promote clarity.
He, however, gives “witches” a metaphorical interpretation, describing them as persons who hide behind unseen powers, forces or falsehoods in attempts to gain control over people, narratives and events or to cast metaphorical spells.
Nwachukwu argues that the similarity in the sound and structure of the two expressions conceals a profound difference in their intentions and consequences.
He maintains that while questions can illuminate society, promote understanding and encourage progress, those who deliberately manipulate information, confuse people and promote bitterness and hatred can have the opposite effect.
For him, discerning the difference requires wisdom and spiritual maturity, warning that appearances can sometimes be deceptive.
The Commissioner identifies politics as perhaps the most fertile arena for both questioning and what he metaphorically describes as “witchcraft,” noting that political actors often say, do, showcase and project all manner of things in pursuit of influence and power.
He accuses some political actors of disguising deceit as politics, hypocrisy as principle and falsehood as strategy, while using theatrical performances to manipulate public opinion.
Nwachukwu warns that those who deliberately twist facts, merchandise lies, promote divisive narratives or celebrate the slightest mistakes of their opponents in an attempt to destroy their reputation may ultimately face consequences from their actions.
He argues that a good person should be capable of recognising and celebrating genuine progress regardless of whether it comes from a friend, relative, community member or political party.
By contrast, he says, those consumed by hatred often struggle to acknowledge anything good done by their political opponents or people outside their preferred circle.
According to him, such individuals can become so blinded by political allegiance or personal animosity that even genuine achievements are interpreted negatively, while mistakes are magnified beyond proportion.
Drawing from the Bible, Nwachukwu cites Isaiah 5:20, warning against the distortion of moral values and the deliberate presentation of good as evil and evil as good.
He also reflects on the consequences of human actions, expressing concern over people who appear to believe that their words and deeds carry no consequences.
The Commissioner stresses that every action ultimately carries accountability, both in the present life and, according to his Christian worldview, hereafter.
He further warns against the danger of excessive self-confidence and the belief that one’s own interpretation of events is superior to everyone else’s.
Citing Isaiah 5:21, he describes such an attitude as the condition of those who are “wise in their own eyes” and consider themselves exceptionally clever.
As the political environment begins to heat up ahead of the 2027 elections, Nwachukwu urges Nigerians to become more discerning about the voices they listen to, the narratives they consume and the political actors they follow.
He challenges citizens to ask themselves whether the people they are paying attention to are genuinely asking questions to promote clarity, understanding and development, or whether they are deliberately attempting to manipulate the undiscerning and mislead the vulnerable.
His central message is that political participation should not come at the expense of wisdom, truth and responsible citizenship.
As campaigns intensify and political interests increasingly compete for public attention, Nwachukwu reminds Nigerians that political loyalty should never become a reason to abandon discernment.
“Life is far more than Politics,” he concludes.
