Achebe shuns Nigerian honour

I was interested to see this article about world-famous Nigerian author, Chinua Achebe. Achebe, who became famous for his insights into the impact of colonialism on African culture in Things Fall Apart, has turned to point the finger at the mess that has been created by his own country's government. He has rejected Nigeria's second highest honour as a "wake-up call" to the government, saying:

"Nigeria is a country that does not work:Schools, universities, roads, hospitals, water, the economy, security, life."

I really respect him for doing this. So often, 'Western' commentators point fingers at African countries, without really getting to grips with the challenges that the continent has to face. The legacy of colonialism and continued exploitation of Africa by the West, as well as the lack of responsibility they have for the consequences of any action taken, means that the authority of their voices is greatly reduced in the eyes of African politicians. So I think it is up to significant African figures like Achebe to stand up and do the pointing when it is clearly necessary. I hope African leaders sit up and take notice.