By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman
The recent bandit attack that resulted in the tragic loss of 145 lives across 23 villages in Plateau state is a grim reminder of the deep-rooted conflicts that continue to plague our nation. It is disheartening to witness such acts of violence and bloodshed, which not only claim the lives of innocent citizens but also tear at the very fabric of our common humanity.
For far too long, we have been under the illusion that the military can bring lasting peace to our troubled lands. However, it is abundantly clear that these conflicts are not rooted in external threats or territorial disputes, but rather in social and economic problems that require delicate, locally-driven solutions. The Nigerian state’s increasing militarization has not only failed to bring about peace but has led to disastrous consequences for communities caught in the crossfire.
To break the cycle of violence and achieve lasting peace, we must reject the notion that military might is the answer. Instead, we must focus our efforts on demilitarizing these conflicts and engaging all local stakeholders in an aggressive reconciliation process between communities. Only through such endeavors can we hope to find genuine, sustainable solutions.
The absence of local involvement and stakeholder engagement has been a severe hindrance to progress in resolving long-standing conflicts. Top-down approaches and grand plans devised in the corridors of power in Abuja have repeatedly proven ineffective. The people most affected by these conflicts, those who witness the devastation firsthand, possess an intimate understanding of the underlying causes and potential solutions. It is imperative that their voices are heard and their wisdom heeded.
Nigeria is a nation built on diversity and unity, but the loss of our common humanity is deeply troubling. It is our collective responsibility to restore the bonds that have been eroded by years of violence and division. This can only be achieved by embracing a localized approach, where communities themselves actively participate in the search for peaceful resolutions. Only then can we begin to address the root causes of these conflicts and prevent future loss of lives.
The path to peace may be long and arduous, but we must never lose hope. We must pledge ourselves to this noble cause for the sake of our nation and future generations. Let us not forget that Nigeria is more than just a geographical space; it is a shared heritage, a home we all call our own. We owe it to ourselves and to one another to reclaim our common humanity, to rebuild the bonds of trust, and to work tirelessly towards a future free from the horrors of violence and bloodshed.
Let us commit ourselves to seeking local solutions, to involving all stakeholders in a comprehensive reconciliation process, and to demilitarizing these conflicts. Let us reject the notion of perpetual war and instead strive for lasting peace. May God forbid that we fail in this endeavor, for the consequences of inaction are too dire to fathom. Together, we can overcome these challenges and restore the dignity and unity that define us as Nigerians.
