There is currently a discussion surrounding a Nigerian slang phrase that promotes standing up against bullying and deception, as police have raised concerns that the saying could be seen as a call for rebellion.
Although not a new phrase, the pidgin English expression “No gree for anybody” and its variations have gained popularity since the beginning of the year as a mantra for self-sufficiency and determination in tough situations.
In 2024, the phrase has been adopted as a collective slogan for enduring difficult times in Africa’s most populous country, which is facing challenges such as increasing living expenses and security threats from groups like jihadists and kidnapping gangs.
The national police spokesperson, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, cautioned against the use of the phrase last week, sparking a discussion on social media.
“Our youth’s new motto for 2023 and 2024 is ‘Do not agree with anyone’. According to our sources, this slogan is being promoted by a group with revolutionary intentions that could potentially lead to issues nationwide,” he informed journalists during a press conference on Wednesday.
This statement, while considered a common phrase, is viewed as extremely harmful within the security community.
It was uncertain if Adejobi was indirectly mentioning the EndSars protests in 2020, led by youth and aimed at police brutality, which evolved into the biggest anti-government demonstrations since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
According to local news sources, the phrase “no go gree” originated from a traditional gospel song. Nigerians commonly blend English, pidgin, and one of their native languages, such as Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa.
Last year, Prosper Udeagha, a 30-year-old taxi driver in Abuja, began using the phrase as a reminder to remain resilient and persistent. He understands the concerns of the police, who fear that protests against injustice could escalate into violence.
Adejobi’s remarks sparked online conversation, with certain critics arguing that the police should prioritize more pressing issues instead of focusing on current slang.
The Nigerian military is engaged in combat against extremist groups in the northern region, armed gangs and widespread abductions in the north-west, and an increase in conflicts between different communities in central states.
“The slang warning reveals their priorities,” stated Aisha Yesufu, a critic of the government, on X.
But shortly after the police issued their statement, even a military representative was using the colloquial term to describe Nigerians who refuse to show mercy to armed groups. “We will not tolerate terrorists, and we will not tolerate those who cause insecurity,” Major General Edward Buba stated.
Last week, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos state, sent his well wishes to Nigeria’s Super Eagles football team for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. He stated, “I am eagerly anticipating their first match and my message to them is clear – ‘Don’t back down to anyone.'” He expressed his hopes for them to bring home the Nations Cup.
The beginning was not ideal, as the team who had won the cup three times previously tied their initial match on Sunday against Equatorial Guinea.
Source: theguardian.com
