Are We Truly Free? The Illusion of Free Will in a Restrictive Society

image source

Freedom is something we all desire. We all would like the ability to live life on our own terms, to make choices without fear, and to express ourselves without restrictions. But are we really free? Can we truly say we have free will when society is built on rules, laws, and the constant threat of punishment? If freedom means doing whatever we like, however we like, then it becomes clear that no one is truly free.

As a Nigerian, I can confidently say that freedom here is more of an illusion than a reality. We are given rights, yet those rights often feel like they exist only on paper. One of the most obvious examples is the so-called freedom of speech . Yes, we are told we can speak up, criticize the government, and demand better leadership. But in reality, how many people have suffered for simply expressing their opinions? There have been countless cases of people being arrested, harassed, or even killed for speaking out against the government. Now, when a citizen cannot air their views without fear of consequences, can we really say they are free?

Another major issue is the unfair distribution of freedom. In Nigeria, the rich enjoy far more freedom than the poor. They can break rules, get away with it and go scott free. They can manipulate the system, buy their way out of trouble, and live above the law. Meanwhile, an ordinary person commits the same offense and faces the full wrath of the law. How is that freedom? True freedom should apply to everyone, not just to some.

I understand that in any society, there have to be rules. Without laws, there would be chaos. If people were free to do anything they wanted without limits, society would become unlivable. But there is a difference between setting boundaries for order and outright oppression. When people cannot live their lives without fear of being silenced, controlled, or punished unfairly, then the concept of freedom becomes questionable.

For example, look at the way security forces treat ordinary citizens. Many people have been brutalized by police officers for no reason other than being at the wrong place at the wrong time. There have been countless cases of extortion, illegal arrests, and even killings. Yet, when these same officers are caught doing wrong, nothing happens to them. Where is the freedom in that? If you constantly have to watch your back, if you have to think twice before speaking your mind, if you feel powerless against injustice, can you really say you are free?

At the end of the day, i believe freedom is not just about having rights written in a constitution; it is about being able to exercise those rights without fear. It is about fairness, equality, and justice. If freedom is only enjoyed by few while the majority suffer, then it is not true freedom. It is basically just an illusion, a privilege reserved for those who have the power to bend the rules in their favor.

So, are we really free? In theory, yes. But in reality, the answer is no.