I have read a few unguarded comments coming from some Nigerians since the military intervention in democracy in Niger and other sub-saharan African nation. Justifiable or otherwise as these may be in those countries, Nigerias situation is far more complex and dire, such that if such an intervention ever comes, we can take it for granted that it might precipitate a civil war.
Sub-Saharan Africa may not survive a war in Nigeria and surely, Nigeria wouldn't survive such as a nation. The casualty levels might be unprecedented, considering our current demographic realities.
The complex issues of governance that seems to fuel the citizens against government, is largely caused by the nature of the Nigerian state, which has been bedeviled by a citizenry that is at best, anathema to the progress of the country and it's global image. Thus, it becomes needful to know, that our agitation for good governance must not be focused as scapegoating government alone, but also at reforming the citizens towards taking responsibility for making the country better.
While it may seem emotionally rewarding for those who may not be happy about the outcomes of our democracy, to seek military intervention, I dare say that common sense and a deep knowledge of our current realities (the ethno-religious intolerance, political acrimony, hatred fuelled by socio-economic inequalities and the widening gap between the rich and the poor), should warn us against such calls.
It is in this vain that I also do want to caution all stakeholders, including labour and the political parties, to be very careful about what is communicated during this period. It's not for fun that the phrase, "Highly Inflammable" is written on fuel-bearing tankers. Let's be careful how we 'throw our conversation flames' at this time.
A peaceful home is invaluable.
Zadok Akintoye
The WiD Institute
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