Seeds of Yesterday

Without deliberate efforts, Nigeria may continue to live with the consequences of a haphazard creation of sub-units during the military era. This is evident in the boundary clash between communities in Abia and Akwa Ibom states on February 2nd 2021. About sixteen people were reportedly killed while six others are still missing. Boundaries clashes such as this are episodic in Nigeria. Also prominent are inter-communal tensions based on identity and land. The Nigerian government has not managed such conflicts; neither have meaningful efforts been implemented to prevent fresh violence.

The nation cannot go back in time to undo military decrees that dominated Nigeria\’s pre-democratic era. However, government can begin to manage present issues to ensure that avoidable deaths and losses to investment are effectively addressed. Early warning mechanisms will help security agents to monitor schisms that may lead to violent upheavals. Also, security operatives may need to mount duty posts at the violent hotspots to establish a security presence in the areas. Constant engagement of community actors will create a platform for the community members to communicate their grievances.

Governments of affected communities must begin to strategise on a bottom-top approach to finding durable peace. Court rulings may never deliver outcomes that are favourable to all parties in conflict. Therefore, dialogues and community engagement is required to sensitise community members on the path towards peace. In addition to this, it is essential to prioritise youth engagement as they are the main perpetrators of violence. Community groups such as religious and traditional institutions must also be engaged to use their vast platforms to preach peace. Government must be proactive in peacebuilding for communities prone to violence.

Promoting dialogues and efficient criminal justice system will help to douse tensions between warring communities. Public confidence in government will boost reporting crimes and seeking redress through appropriate channels. Therefore, government must restore public confidence on its ability to protect citizens, deliver justice and uphold the rule of law. The National Boundary Commission must step to its statutory responsibility to resolve boundary related issues in Nigeria. Frozen boundary conflicts are sitting time-bombs. Hence, proactive efforts of the Commission will help to avoid losses. Nigeria must seek sustainable ways of conquering the consequences of ill-thought actions of the military era.