The Nigerian Political Science Association, NPSA, has expressed deep concern about the quest for secession from various quarters in the country.
A statement signed by President of the association, Professor Hassan Saliu expresses worry that citizens who had lived peacefully together in the past are no longer ready to
tolerate one another based on their social identities noting that the development poses negative consequence on nation-building efforts.
“Indeed, the level of cultural secularization has critically waned. While our Association agrees that the problems facing the nation are multifaceted and multi-layered and are becoming more intractable, we still believe that the situation is not beyond redemption as to warrant calling for secession from the nation,” the statement says.
All what is required is the development of more awareness of the problems and the readiness to apply a mix of therapies that are people’s centered.
“To be sure, the NPSA believes in a strong and united Nigeria and as such, it frowns at the incessant drum of disintegration being beaten by some aggrieved Nigerians. We believe in one Nigeria where all its citizens will enjoy justice, equity, fairness and peace. We thus disapprove of extreme posturing and agitations, verging on the dismemberment of the country as being demanded by some groups.”
“As Political Scientists, we do not grudge against some Nigerians who have grievances with the current state of affairs in Nigeria and are ready to canvass their views within the confines of the law. However, we reject the option of breaking-up the country for its many consequences that some countries that have passed through the route are still living with,” the statement added.
Fortunately, we are in a democracy with its avowed principles guiding its operation. Its time-tested principles such as dialogue should be embraced by all in navigating the country away from the path of the precipice and thus strengthening the bond that exists
among Nigerians. Political problems, require political solution.
The association calls for frequent and inclusive dialogue between the elites and the agitators to eliminate distrust and restore sanity back to the nation.
