Osundare’s ‘Not My Business’ is a poem that re-echoes the theme of human rights abuses in Nigeria

Niyi Osundare's poem "Not My Business" addresses the theme of human rights abuses by exploring the consequences of indifference and passivity in the face of oppression. The poem is a powerful commentary on the dangers of ignoring the suffering of others, particularly when it involves violations of basic human rights.

"Not My Business" is structured around a series of events in which different individuals suffer injustices—being dragged away, their possessions confiscated, or physically assaulted. The speaker, however, repeatedly distances himself from these events, claiming that they are not his business. This attitude of indifference persists until, in the poem's final lines, the speaker becomes a victim of the very same abuses he previously ignored.

   One of the most prominent themes in Osundare’s poem is the danger of indifference. The speaker represents a person who sees others suffer but believes it does not concern him as long as he is unaffected. This is a clear reflection of the mindset that allows human rights abuses to go unchecked. The repetition of the phrase "Not my business" throughout the poem highlights how easy it is for people to distance themselves from others' pain, even when injustice is rampant.

   The poem emphasizes the idea that oppression does not discriminate and can eventually affect everyone. The speaker’s detachment from the suffering of others suggests a false sense of security, which is shattered when the abuse reaches his own door. This serves as a powerful reminder that ignoring the plight of others can lead to personal consequences. The theme reinforces the idea that the protection of human rights is a collective responsibility, and failure to act may result in widespread suffering.

   The poem provides examples of how human rights can be violated. Individuals in the poem are arrested or mistreated without explanation, an indication of arbitrary and unjust exercises of power. These actions reflect violations of freedom, the right to property, and personal security. Osundare subtly points to the abuse of political or governmental authority in oppressing citizens, echoing the real-world experiences of people in many societies, particularly in authoritarian regimes.

   Through the poem, Osundare calls for moral courage and empathy. He critiques the tendency of people to remain silent in the face of injustice when it does not directly affect them. The poet’s message is clear: standing by in silence makes one complicit in the abuse of human rights. He advocates for collective responsibility and action against oppression before it engulfs society as a whole.

Niyi Osundare’s "Not My Business" effectively re-echoes the theme of human rights abuse by illustrating how indifference can perpetuate injustice and lead to personal and societal suffering. The poem serves as a moral warning, urging people to confront oppression and defend human rights for all, as silence in the face of such violations can have dire consequences for everyone involved.