EjT WhatsApp Group Rules of Engagement
I respectfully crave the indulgence of all esteemed members who will, in due course, participate actively on the EjT WhatsApp platforms. I greet you all with the salutation that binds our spirit and identity – Nkub‑wun‑oh!
Charles Darwin once observed that “A moral being is one who is capable of reflecting on his past actions and their motives, of approving some and disapproving others.” This profound reflection calls us to examine our conduct and collective responsibility on our WhatsApp platforms.
To our highly respected chiefs, distinguished academics, public leaders with state and national honours, and to the vibrant youths who uphold the essence of EjT, I extend my deepest gratitude. I bow my head in humility and appreciation for your presence and support.
However, the above quotation invites us to a renewed consciousness regarding our modus operandi on our WhatsApp platforms. Social media spaces, especially WhatsApp, can easily become congested, distracting, or overwhelming when posts are shared without structure or relevance. To ensure that every member, regardless of age or background, remains carried along, we must manage our communication with discipline and purpose.
I therefore make a passionate appeal to all. Managing a diverse group, conservative and liberal minds, elders and youths, traditionalists and modernists, is no small task. Yet, we must all remember why this group was created and commit ourselves to conduct that strengthens unity rather than dilutes it.
Many of us have belonged to other social media groups and have witnessed how randomness, excessive chatter, and irrelevant posts gradually weaken engagement and eventually kill the purpose of the platform. EjT must learn from these patterns and intentionally remodel its approach so that our collective mission endures. This means we cannot operate like every other WhatsApp group.
Our postings must remain distinct, purposeful, and strictly aligned with the objectives of EjT.
For clarity, while we celebrate every member and value every milestone, certain personal celebrations, birthdays, weddings, dedications, political appointments, religious honours, and similar events, will be placed on hold for now. Such posts may only be shared when approved by the Admins and only when they serve a broader communal value.
Reasons for this measure include:
- Avoiding partisan political influence.
Partisan politics is a sharp instrument of division, especially the Western-style political culture that remains foreign to our traditional systems. - Preventing religious dominance.
Many social groups collapse due to religious tensions or perceived monopolies. We must avoid this at all costs. - Managing social enthusiasm and preventing cliques.
Unchecked celebrations can lead to fanaticism, abuse of privilege, and the hijacking of the group’s purpose by a few, creating discomfort for others. - Carrying our elders along.
Our respected elders are evolving with us at their own pace. We must maintain clarity and order so they can follow, contribute, and guide us. Their wisdom is indispensable. - Appealing for patience with youthful exuberance.
To our fathers and mothers, we ask for understanding. Youthful energy sometimes spills over, but it is never out of disrespect. - Discouraging class-based influence.
We must avoid subtle or overt displays of affluence or status that create class divisions. Our aim is to build objective minds, not fantasies or hierarchies.
As George Bernard Shaw reminds us, “Anyone who wants to change the world must first change himself.” And Socrates echoes, “Man, know thyself.”
These questions demand honest reflection.
My people, ours is not a social forum for casual jokes or routine celebrations. It is a sacred space for collective awakening, cultural preservation, and disciplined engagement. We may not know each other’s faces, but we share an eternal ancestry. Our conduct must therefore reflect maturity, respect, and purpose, always aimed at uplifting the prestige of the Ejagham Nation and her rich cultural heritage.
This message is not intended to silence anyone. Rather, it serves as a guide to ensure that our contributions remain meaningful and aligned with our mission.
To the youths who may feel that these restrict our usual “swag” and spontaneity, I offer my sincere apologies. This is for the greater good.
The Admins will continue to guide us with periodic updates and focal points as we learn and grow together.
Thank you all.
Long Live EjT.
Long Live the Ejagham Nation.
By: WhatsApp Platform Provost. Approved by: President, EjT