SYSTEMATIC OR BARBARIC MAXIMUM SHISHI ?



SYSTEMATIC OR BARBARIC MAXIMUM SHISHI ?
by Olufemi Alfred .O.

   Over the years, Obafemi Awolowo University has been known for her zero tolerance stance against social vices; cultism, rape, stealing etc. This underscores and upholds the motto of the varsity- for learning and culture.


   After the mayhem of 1999 which led to the killing of George Iwalade, popularly known as 'Africa' and other students, a modus operandi was agreed upon as regards the punishment to be meted out to people guilty of stealing, cultism and other vices. This brought about the 'Systematic Maximum Shishi' which entails merciless beating of offenders in all halls of residence which will be undertaken by students . What is systematic about the punishment ? Is it the parading? No!


   As a mores, the resolution of 19 years ago is still in existence. However, nothing has changed except for more hardened criminals that surface everyday. It is now paramount to review the effects of SMS, the positive and the other side. Apart from the fact that it's illegal according to the United Nation's charter on fundamental human rights, the violent beating is inhumane and dehumanizing. Coincidentally, as at the time of putting this into writing, students in their tens are armed with belts and iron rods to vent their anger on an alleged thief caught in Angola hall of residence and this is his second time of being apprehended .


   Moreover, brutalization of offenders has not been helpful. There are many cases of formerly paraded thieves who still went back to the act. Alas! It has done a little or nothing in curbing crimes in the varsity .


   The above stated are not aimed at a lawless society or an anarchical one. As a matter of necessity, human nature repels vices and it is necessary to combat the acts and their promoters. It is just pertinent that it should be done in a way that values will be added to the society. The solution which is also a perfect substitute for the brutalization and unjust beating is Community Service, having been proven guilty and given fair hearing.


   It will be parochial to conclude that females also do not engage in the aforementioned nefarious acts. To be honest, SMS does not fit in to the judgment box for ladies caught because it negates the principle of equity. So how do we tackle this without being bias? Simply, community service.


   The proffered solution is aimed at the rehabilitation of hardened criminals- kleptomaniac inclusive. They are made to wear garments with the inscription of their offence(s) and are mandated to clean public toilets, mow lawns, sweep public places and other values adding services for a minimum of a week . It's a moment whereby they are psychologically isolated from the society for sobriety which is lacking after the execution of SMS.


   Also, it will help to curb the upsurge of crimes in our society because of the fear of not being beating but that of the stigmatization that follows being caught. Friends, lecturers, classmates etc will sight the offender. It will then be "the fear of community service is the beginning of sanity".


   Conclusively, to proffer a solution isn't as important as its realization. It is then that the society will be a better and safer place to be.

#NoToSmS #YesToCommunityService #YesToEquity #NoToCrime 

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