Nigeria has a long history of political and social unrest, with violence often being used as a tool for change. This raises questions about the effectiveness of violence as a means of bringing about social and political change, and whether non-violent methods of protest might be more effective. As a student of Sociology, I am aware of the theories that view violence as a tool of change, as well as those that critique such theories and emphasize the importance of peace and non-violent methods of protest, as exemplified by Indian leader Mahatma Gandhi.
By Usman Mohammed Binji
One theory that sees violence as a tool of change is revolutionary theory. This theory suggests that violence can be an effective means of overthrowing the ruling class and bringing about radical social change. Proponents of this theory include Marxist revolutionaries Che Guevara, Mao Zedong, Vladimir Lenin, and Fidel Castro. However, it is important to note that this theory has been critiqued on the basis that violence can often be counterproductive, leading to further repression and violence in response.
Another theory that sees violence as a tool of change is conflict theory. This theory suggests that violence is an inherent part of society and is used by those in power to maintain their position. Proponents of this theory include sociologists Max Weber, Karl Marx, C. Wright Mills, and Michel Foucault. Those who are oppressed may use violence as a means of challenging the status quo and bringing about change. However, this theory has also been critiqued on the basis that violence can lead to further oppression and violence, and that non-violent methods of protest may be more effective.
A third theory that sees violence as a tool of change is social control theory. This theory suggests that violence is used by individuals and groups who feel excluded or marginalized by society. Violence is seen as a means of asserting power and gaining recognition. Proponents of this theory include sociologists Travis Hirschi, Robert Agnew, and Richard Cloward. However, this theory has also been critiqued on the basis that violence can lead to further marginalization and exclusion, and that non-violent methods of protest may be more effective.
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Despite the theories that see violence as a tool of change, it is important to note the effectiveness of peaceful and non-violent methods of protest, as exemplified by Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi led India to independence through a non-violent movement of civil disobedience, which inspired countless other movements for social and political change around the world.
Gandhi’s approach was rooted in a philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience, which emphasized the importance of peaceful protest and the need to confront injustice without resorting to violence. This approach had a profound impact on social and political movements around the world and continues to inspire activists and leaders today.
In Nigeria, the hunger protest began today, 01/08/2024, with thousands of protesters across the federation demanding the restoration of fuel subsidies, lasting solutions to hunger, banditry, and the continued high cost of living. Unfortunately, the peaceful protest later turned violent in most states, providing an opportunity for some miscreants to destroy public property and loot shops belonging to innocent Nigerians who are also suffering from the poor economy.
Given this development, the Nigerian government needs to address the root causes of the protest, such as the high cost of living and insecurity, by implementing policies that reduce poverty, create jobs, and improve security. One of the demands of the protesters is the restoration of fuel subsidies. The government should consider restoring these subsidies or finding alternative ways to reduce the cost of fuel to alleviate the financial burden on Nigerians.
The government should increase social spending on programs such as healthcare, education, and social welfare to support the poorest and most vulnerable members of society. Additionally, the Nigerian government should take steps to improve security and address banditry, which has ravaged many states in Northwest Nigeria, displacing thousands of families. The government should listen to the people to avoid anarchy and lawlessness.
