Former Speaker Yakubu Dogara highlighted Nigeria’s failure to address the lessons from its Civil War, noting the rise of secessionist movements and escalating insecurity. He called for responsibility in governance and the need to foster peace through the country’s religious diversity, stressing that without addressing the root causes of conflict, disunity and insecurity will continue to plague Nigeria.
Yakubu Dogara, the former Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, emphasized that Nigeria has failed to learn from the Civil War, which occurred from 1966 to 1970. At the World Interfaith Harmony Week Conference, Dogara, represented by Timothy Golu, pointed to the emergence of secessionist movements—like the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra and the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta—as evidence of ineffective nation-building since Nigeria’s independence.
Dogara voiced strong concerns regarding the worsening insecurity in Nigeria, noting a troubling increase in terror-related activities since the return to democracy in 1999. He highlighted that the Boko Haram insurgency, originating in 2009, has escalated into a severe security crisis, displacing millions and causing numerous casualties. The country faced significant challenges combating heightened criminal activities, including kidnappings and banditry.
The former Speaker contended that ongoing ethnic and religious tensions further exacerbate violence, revealing deeper issues of ineffective governance and unsatisfactory responses to regional discontent. He remarked that decades of independence have not produced true national unity, with diverse groups increasingly voicing desires for secession due to feelings of marginalization within the Nigerian state.
In addition to highlighting these challenges, Dogara addressed the potential role of Nigeria’s religious diversity in promoting peace, asserting that Christianity and Islam could be vital in fostering national cohesion. However, he cautioned that without addressing the root causes of conflict, Nigeria would continue facing disunity, insecurity, and separatist sentiments.
Dogara asserted the importance of actively taking responsibility for cultivating peace and development to change Nigeria’s trajectory. He pointed out that Nigeria’s historical legacy of ethno-religious violence must be transformed by embracing the values inherent in both major religions. Only with a commitment to responsible nation-building can sustainable peace be achieved.
The conference included significant figures like former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who advocated for love and unity among Nigerians. He received the Apostle of Peace award for his efforts in promoting harmony, furthering the theme of collaboration in overcoming national challenges.
The article discusses the reflections of Yakubu Dogara on Nigeria’s ongoing issues regarding secessionist movements and insecurity in light of the historical context of the Civil War. It highlights the implications of ineffective governance and inadequate nation-building since independence, as well as the role of religion in fostering national unity. The article serves as a commentary on Nigeria’s sociopolitical landscape and its quest for peace and stability amidst rising tensions.
In conclusion, Dogara’s address at the World Interfaith Harmony Week Conference illustrates the critical need for Nigeria to learn from its past. The rise of secessionist groups and persistent insecurity signals a failure of nation-building efforts and governance. By addressing the underlying causes of conflict and harnessing religious values for unity, Nigeria can strive towards achieving sustainable peace and development.
Original Source: punchng.com
