[Opinion] Fr Unegbu: “A Good Name Is Better Than Money” — Lessons from the Tracy Controversy

Rev Fr Chidi Unegbu 

Catholic priest and social commentator Angelo Chidi Unegbu has raised concerns over what he describes as a growing collapse of values in Nigerian society, warning that the pursuit of money is increasingly replacing integrity as the highest ideal.

In a recent reflection, Fr Unegbu lamented that a time once existed when a person’s name and reputation carried more weight than wealth. He referenced traditional expressions such as “Ezi-aha-ka-ego”—meaning a good name is better than money—as values that once guided communal life.

According to him, that value system is gradually disappearing.

“Money has become the highest value for many people,” he stated, noting that while money remains important, it should never override fundamental virtues like honesty, dignity, and accountability.

Fr Unegbu pointed to what he described as troubling societal trends, including the willingness of some individuals to support failing systems or compromise their principles for financial gain or political advantage. In his view, this reflects a deeper moral crisis where personal benefit outweighs collective good.

He also highlighted the disturbing rise in extreme actions driven by financial desperation, including criminal activities such as kidnapping and violence, which he linked to an unhealthy obsession with wealth.

To illustrate his point, Fr Unegbu referenced the case involving Tracy and her past dispute with Dave Umahi. According to him, the situation initially drew widespread sympathy from Nigerians who believed she had been treated unfairly.

However, he argued that subsequent developments changed public perception.

Fr Unegbu suggested that the controversy revealed a deeper issue, where financial expectations appeared to overshadow the value of public trust and support. In his interpretation, the situation reflects a mindset where money becomes the ultimate measure of justice and satisfaction.

“What does this tell us?” he asked, implying that society must begin to question the values it promotes and rewards.

Beyond individual cases, the priest directed his message to families and future parents, urging them to consciously teach children that while money is necessary, it must never come at the cost of one’s integrity.

“A progressive society is built by men and women of honour,” he said, “not by those who chase wealth at all costs.”

Mixed Reactions Trail Fr Unegbu’s Position

Fr Unegbu’s comments have, however, sparked varying reactions among observers.

Some supported his stance, arguing that personal responsibility and accountability should remain central, regardless of circumstance. One commenter noted that even if Tracy felt undercompensated, she could have pursued proper channels rather than resorting to public outcry.

Others, however, offered a different perspective, suggesting that the realities of modern economic systems make the pursuit of money almost unavoidable. According to another view, societal pressures within a capitalist environment have redefined success, placing financial achievement above traditional moral expectations.These differing reactions highlight an ongoing debate: whether the erosion of values is purely a moral failure or a reflection of broader economic and social conditions.

In the end, Fr Unegbu’s message returns to a simple but enduring principle—one that continues to challenge both individuals and society at large: whether a good name still holds value in a world increasingly driven by money.