History: 54 YEARS AFTER CIVIL WAR, The Nation Still Bleeds
By Charles Ifeanyi Obi
The truth is that the May 30th Biafra Heroes Day commemoration has come to stay. Although not about the IPOB but about the generality of those who witnessed the Civil War especially those who paid with their lives. A day that should unite all Biafrans worldwide.
Secondly, the Sit-At-Home declaration actually shouldn’t be an order but what everyone should willingly comply, emotionally and empathically in memory of the past, the present and sober reflection for the future. A day to mourn and honor our past heroes; strong and courageous men who paid for our well-being with their lives.
Finally, it is pertinent to state that it is no longer safe to remain silent… Therefore, I join in calling on those in authority to do the needful to douse increasing tension. The foundation of this country is turbulent… A high division across ethnic lines; citizens seem to have lost confidence in state institutions both the government, security systems, and so on.
Those in authority should stop acting as though all is well… “A stitch in time saves nine”, it is sad that Nigeria is still being run based on the 1999 constitution handed down by the military… What a wrong foundation!
Isn’t this evidence of failure on the part of the National Assembly? It would be more shameful if the 9th Assembly ends up not achieving even an amendment in spite of the height of necessity.
Very regrettable, president Buhari’s administration which came on board with lots of promises and optimism by Nigerians has failed to implement the resolve of the 2014 National Conference which would’ve giving many a sense of belong and hope rather, there has been lots of alienation of some parts of the country particularly the South-East, reopening old wounds and making many turn disaffectionate about the country and its institutions. Even ordinary electoral reform, it has continued unabated obviously due to unnecessary compromise.
It was once said that the unity of Nigeria is not negotiable but today I join my voice with millions of Nigerians calling for negotiations. The country has to be restructured and if we can’t restructure…. If allowing for people who choose to go their separate ways is the only solution to achieving good life, peace and needed development, I beg us all to apply amicably.
Indeed, posterity shall forever revere whosoever shall allowed for these troubles and threats to lives to be permanently resolved under his or her watch.
Its time for dialog and not for show of force and power. It is time to look inwards to review those conditions we’ve shied away from discussing not minding the consequence. On the other hand, it is important that we end the bloodshed… Whether by security agent, bandits, unknown gun men, herdsmen, or terrorists. Let’s give peace a chance and continue to engage through dialog.