People who speak without thinking about their thought or are not able to control their emotions (anger) are considered generally to be dearth of wisdom. In order words, they are foolish or “mad.” I hope readers of this piece are not going to misconstrue my good intentions, and before jumping on me to crucify me, should do their best to contextualize the reason for the by-line. I keep saying that there is a cosmic difference between being educated and sitting within the four walls of the classroom to receive instruction from teachers.

Throughout history, people who have contributed immensely in making society better or shaped the destinies of individuals, not only went to school, but on a more important note, received education. If we truly fathom the essence of education, we will realize that it is not only one’s ability to read and write or speak eloquently; it transcends that.

Based upon the above, it is very plausible that one can be a professor emeritus, a doctor of philosophy (PhD) holder, a medical doctor, a religious leader, and yet lacks the qualities that define the educated. If all individuals who have passed through the school system are deemed to be educated, then we obviously might be making a big mistake. Aren’t we taught in our schools to appreciate and respect diversity in our societies? That is what sociologists and social psychologists try to imbibe in us.

That is why it is very strange, eccentric, and unreasonable for a former sociologist lecturer to descend so low in denigrating members of a particular religion: Christianity to be precise. So what was Dr.Tony Aidoo—the director of research, policy, and monitoring of the National Democratic Congress teaching all these years? Prejudice against Christianity? Referring to speakers in tongues as “mad people,” was for me the very height of ignorance, despicable, and anti-Christianity.

Accusing the clergy of being “devil worshippers”—is also an indictment on the whole priesthood. How can he even make that sweeping generalization as an “intellectual?” Dr. Aidoo should understand that intelligence is not only about the skillful use of the English language; one also has to demonstrate beyond all reasonable doubt that he has the mettle to contribute positively to society via their words, actions, and deeds.

As much as we all agree that there are some elements in the clergy—few though, who are misconducting and abusing their office, we cannot sensibly justify any assertion that most of them are devil worshippers and the speaking in tongues is a sign of madness. Tony Aidoo’s unintelligent and unfortunate pronouncement clearly suggests that he is anti-Christianity. He has the right to believe whatever he chooses to believe in, but must also understand that some of us love and cherish our religion—Christianity. We are proud of the influence of Christianity on our lives and in society. We were previously thinking and behaving foolishly, but now as a result of Christianity and true education, we can raise our heads high and give glory to God.

We should all endeavor to respect and appreciate diversities in our society; the Muslim, Buddhist, Traditional worshipper, Scientologist, etc. etc. should be allowed to practice their respective faith. Tony Aidoo might have reacted in that manner because of the assessment of Reverend Asanti Antwi on the performance of his party and government. If indeed that was the trigger, then his outburst was simply unacceptable and unfathomable. If the Reverend had given a positive rating on the government, I bet you, folks, he would have sung hallelujah! This is simply a clear instance of intellectual dishonesty.

Let us stand up and build credible institutions, and not destroy them. I Hope Dr. Aidoo will not solicit the votes of Christians and other religious groups during the next general elections. God bless Ghana!!

Source: Kingsley Nyarko, PhD, Educational Psychologist, Accra (kingsleynyarko73@yahoo.com)