If there is an unpleasant factor that has constantly threatened the peace, unity,and stability of Nigeria as a nation, it is the prevalence of enthnoreligious intolerance. This malaise continues to be a deeply troubling issue in Nigeria, casting a long shadow over national unity and development.
This insidious phenomenon, rooted in prejudice and misunderstanding, has far-reaching negative implications that threaten the very fabric of the nation.Unfortunately,some persons have continued to fuel this cancerous issue for selfish inclinations.
One of the most immediate and devastating consequences of ethnoreligious intolerance is the frequent eruption of violence. From sectarian clashes to communal conflicts, these acts of aggression lead to loss of life, displacement of communities, and the destruction of property. Such violence breeds fear and distrust, making peaceful coexistence incredibly difficult.
Evidence abounds to affirm that beyond the direct violence, intolerance fosters deep divisions within society. When people are categorized and discriminated against based on their ethnicity or religion, it erodes the sense of shared national identity. This fragmentation makes it challenging to build a cohesive society where citizens feel a sense of belonging and mutual respect.
On the economic front, ethnoreligious intolerance acts as a significant drag on progress. Conflicts disrupt economic activities, deter investment, and destroy infrastructure. Businesses are forced to shut down, agricultural production is hampered, and the overall economic stability of affected regions is severely undermined.
Furthermore, intolerance often leads to political instability. When political discourse becomes heavily influenced by ethnic and religious sentiments, it can be exploited by unscrupulous leaders to gain power, exacerbating tensions,and making effective governance almost impossible. This can lead to a cycle of grievance and political unrest.
It is imperative to also posit that the social fabric of Nigeria is also severely damaged by intolerance. It poisons social relationships, leading to suspicion and animosity between different groups. This breakdown in social cohesion makes it harder to address common challenges and build a society based on empathy and understanding.
Moreover, ethnoreligious intolerance undermines the rule of law and human rights. When individuals are targeted because of their identity, it signifies a failure of justice and protection. This can lead to a sense of impunity for perpetrators and a feeling of vulnerability among victims, further eroding trust in state institutions.
In the light of all these,Nigerian Horn believes ultimately that the persistent presence of ethnoreligious intolerance hinders Nigeria’s potential for growth and progress. It diverts resources, energy, and attention away from critical development issues, trapping the nation in a cycle of conflict and underdevelopment. Therefore, addressing this issue is paramount for Nigeria’s future.
In this vein, both the government, on one hand – and all ethnic and religious leaders, on the other hand – must work in synergy to address the cankerworm if it must be nipped in the bud. It is advisable that Nigerians should maximise the comparative socioeconomic advantages inherent in the nation’s massive population size brought about by her diverse component units. Diversity should be an instrument for national cohesion rather than an avenue for internal strife and outpour of animosity by the different enthnoreligious components of Nigeria.
