Several proponents have proposed that the way forward for Nigeria is for the Nation to break-up. For them, this division is simple as it should be along ethnic lines, with ethnic meaning the three major ethnic groups in Nigeria. The Yoruba, the Ibos and the Hausas (I know some people will hala that I put Yoruba first) are the major ethnic groups but in reality, Nigeria contains over 200 different ethnic groups.
I even hear that this breakup is going to happen by the year 2015 as stated in a document emanating from the CIA of America.
Here is what I say to all of that, if Nigeria must divide, it won’t be as simple as some think. A lot of people have been mooting this idea but have not even imagined the complexities involved. The breakup along ethnic lines is based on the assumption that the individual ethnic divisions are united among themselves. People who propound this solution fail to take into cognizance the many years of misrule that the citizens of this Nation have been subjected to. Years of neglect that has brought about an emerging evolution that appears to be unstoppable so far, Self reliance.
Throughout all these years of rape, neglect and abuse by each succeeding Government, the people have learnt to fend for themselves, cater for themselves and lookout for themselves. In reality, each household have since become its own establishment, providing for its security, power, basic amenities, and health care services and so on. In short, each house hold has become its own Government – its own Nation – its own Country. So tell me, if Nigeria must divide, do you still think it is feasible along ethnic lines? I doubt. Nigerians have suffered greatly from misrule and mistrust for any constituted authority is the order of the day.
Therefore, if Nigeria must divide, many Nations will be born and I doubt if Africa and indeed the World is ready to deal with over a hundred and fifty million new presidents. I tell you the truth, once any form of division starts; it won’t stop until all households gain their own independence. If you don’t agree, please visit any building facility that houses more than one family, or visit any given estate in Nigeria and you will find out that even Government at that level is still subject to heavy doses of mistrust. If most Nigerians had their way, like Andrew, they will check out and if any was to try to provide an answer to the late Sonny Okosun’s poser, it will be met with confusion.
I know that a lot of people still think in their hearts that Nigeria should divide and that, that is the only way that rapid growth and development can come to the new Nations thus born. But I beg to disagree, yes, Nigeria was not Nigerians idea. Yes, Nigeria was a creation of British imperialism. But, our heroes past as we sing did not fight for independent Nations, they fought for an Independent Nigeria. If, their labors must not be in vain as we also sing, then Nigeria must continue to be one. Yes, all that have ruled us so far did not get it right. But, it is never so late to pick up the pieces and chart a new course for ourselves as a Nation. We must as a people, determine to forge ahead together putting aside all perceived differences. Yes, I say perceived because those differences are all in the mind. In reality, we have so many things in common far much more than our perceived differences.
Let us focus on all we have in common and let that drive us on to glory together. Now, that is unity, and I believe it is possible, do you?
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