The Perils of Sectionalism, Tribalism, and Violence in Nigeria: Reflecting on the Zaria massacre and its aftermath, by Ahmad Shuaibu Isa
Recently, a dear friend of mine, Yusuf Lawal Nasidi, posed a challenging inquiry that compelled me to reflect: “Imagine if the Zaria Massacre, which resulted in the tragic slaughter of hundreds of innocent Muslims and left many injured while others languished behind bars, had occurred during the tenures of the following leaders:
Goodluck Jonathan as President, Kenneth Minimah as Chief of Army Staff, Ita Ekpeyong as Director-General of the Department of State Services, Andrew Azazi as National Security Adviser and Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa as Governor of Kaduna State. What would have been the response of Northern Nigerian Muslims?”.
This question served as a catalyst for my contemplation and inspired the examination of
“The Perils of Sectionalism, Tribalism, and Violence in Nigeria: Reflecting on the Zaria Massacre and Its Aftermath.”
As a multifaceted nation, Nigeria necessitates a governance framework that embodies justice, truth, equality, liberty, and human rights, all underpinned by robust institutional frameworks.
The Zaria massacre of December 2015, where Nigerian military forces violently suppressed the followers of Allamah Ibraheem Zakzaky (H), stands as a harrowing testament to the consequences of unchecked authority and rampant human rights abuses. This horrifying event not only inflicted immense casualties but also exacerbated existing divides and sectarian tensions among the populace, further entrenching the ethnic and religious discord that haunts the nation. The military’s brutal actions eroded trust in the very security apparatus meant to safeguard citizens, instead positioning them as vehicles of oppression.
In Nigeria, the persistent scourges of sectionalism, tribalism, and self-interest have catalysed divisive schisms, heightening mutual mistrust among varied ethnic and religious communities. Political figures often exploit tribal affiliations to consolidate their power, deepening societal fractures while prioritising personal or ethnic agendas over the essential unity of the nation. This fractious mindset has fostered a political arena characterised by resource allocations based on ethnic loyalty rather than merit or necessity, resulting in widespread disparities and resentments.
The Zaria massacre intensified these divisions, engendering sentiments of injustice and vengeance that could ignite further repression against minority groups by the state. Such acts of aggression not only undermine national unity but also thwart developmental progress. The self-serving pursuits of certain politicians, motivated by personal gain, further inflame these tensions, stymying national growth and deterring foreign investment.
For Nigeria to progress constructively, it is imperative to confront these divisive forces head-on by championing national unity, fostering reconciliation, and ensuring accountability for all perpetrators of violence, particularly those involved in the Zaria massacre. The current administration must address these past injustices while nurturing an environment where ethnic and religious diversity is honoured rather than manipulated. Through leadership that is truly inclusive and guided by a collective vision, Nigeria can surmount these perils and forge a prosperous future for all its citizens.
Ahmad Shuaibu Isa lives in Zaria, Nigeria, he is a writer and a student of International Studies Specialising in Defense and Strategic studies and can be reached via
ahmadeesir214@gmail.com
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