“The children of the poor you failed to train ( educate) will never let your children have peace” – Chief obafemi awolowo.
It was like he saw the future.
THAT is a powerful quote from Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a Nigerian statesman and former Premier of Western Region. His words resonate deeply, highlighting the consequences of neglecting the education and well-being of disadvantaged children. By failing to provide them with opportunities and support, we create a cycle of poverty, inequality, and social unrest that can haunt us in the future.
Indeed, political thuggery in Nigeria has become a means to an end, perpetuating violence, intimidation, and instability. It’s a tragic reality that those who were failed by the system are often exploited and weaponized as political tools, perpetuating a cycle of violence and hostility.
Awolowo’s quote serves as a warning and a call to action. We must prioritize education, empowerment, and inclusivity to break this cycle and build a more peaceful and prosperous future for all. By investing in the next generation, we can create a more stable and harmonious society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
It is in the light of this That I believe political thuggery has indeed brought a lot of conflicts in Nigeria among ethnics, nations, religions and tribes, by exploiting and manipulating vulnerable individuals, political thuggery has fueled violence, intimidation, and division, undermining the country’s unity and stability.
To break it down, political thuggery in Nigeria has:
– Exacerbated ethnic and religious tensions
– Fueled violent conflicts and clashes\
– Undermined trust and cohesion among different groups
– Encouraged divisive rhetoric and hate speech
– Obstructed constructive dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Over the last couple of weeks, Sharada Ja’en, Dorayi and Sheka areas have all been red areas for thuggery and gang fights popularly known as ‘fadan daba’ in Kano State.
What started like a one-off thing graduated into a surge in daily violent activities in certain parts of the Kano metropolis. It was shocking when a couple of weeks ago, the thugs even initiated a sit-at-home in Dorayi. Shops were closed, students and workers remained at home for over 48 hours.
It was no surprise that even the Kano state Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf had to send a passionate appeal to the security agencies in the state to as a matter of urgency take decisive action on the growing menace.
According to Governor Yusuf, the government will not stand by and watch as unscrupulous elements disrupt the peace and harmony enjoyed by the law-abiding citizens of our state.
The governor highlighted the state government’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with security agencies to safeguard the lives and properties of Kano residents.
“We are working diligently with relevant security agencies to ensure the safety and security of our populace at all times,” he reiterated.
Sadly, less than 24 hours after that press release, a bigger gang fight broke out at Sharada Kwanar Ganduje and it was reported that about three persons were killed. One thing is clear, Mr Governor, a press release is not enough but that is a conversation for another day.
To be continued next week…
Kabara, is a writer and public commentator. Her syndicated column, Voice, appears on News Point Nigeria newspaper on Mondays. She can be reached on hafceekay01@gmail.com.