The dilemma of being Ènìyàn (human), towards emergency victims in the age of cell phones: a study of Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the developing attitude of Nigerians towards victims with health challenges using a Yoruba ethical principles, which is Hu ìwà sí i bí ènìyàn eléran ara (act towards him or her as a human being with flesh and feeling). Mobile phones with cameras have increased online reporting in Nigeria, however it also challenges the disposition to being ènìyàn (being human) towards others during emergency situations. Rather than assisting emergency victims, many first- responders video or take pictures of victims. This change in attitude raises a fundamental question of humanness of first responders to emergency situations in Nigeria. This principle guides human relationships among the Yoruba, however, when applied to ethical issues, it creates a framework, which makes human feelings count. The study showed that if the principle is adapted during emergencies, it will give strength to the humane relationships in Nigeria. The study focused on selected cases to evaluate the attitude of first responders (FR) in emergency situations; it also showed how antithetical the attitude of FR is to the general sense of African good neighbourliness, that is being human. There is a departure from the attitude of common support of the other as ènìyàn.