This proposition might just be the Solution we are looking for – Abayomi Odunowo.
As it is now becoming clear that Nigeria has grown beyond the competencies of our leaders, perhaps we should consider taking the option of peaceful separation.
History is rife with examples of countries that have successfully separated and developed economically without the need for war.
The United States, for example, separated from the United Kingdom in 1776 and has since grown to become one of the world’s leading economies. Similarly, Singapore split from Malaysia in 1965 and transformed into a global financial hub. Belgium also separated from the Netherlands in 1830 and has thrived since then.
One might argue that separation can lead to healthy competition for development. Cases in point are Malaysia and Singapore, India and Pakistan, and the triad of Norway, Denmark, and Switzerland. This separation has led to significant development, with each nation striving to outdo the other. In the course of history, several nations have chosen the path of peaceful separation.
East Timor split off from Indonesia in 2002, marking a new dawn in its history. Similarly, Ireland severed ties with the United Kingdom in 1921, leading to the establishment of an Irish free state. In 1944, Iceland chose to peacefully separate from Denmark, demonstrating that nations can part ways without resorting to violence. This tradition of peaceful separation was also evident in 1905 when Norway and Sweden decided to go their separate ways.
One of the most notable examples of the peaceful partition is the partition of British Indian dominion into India and Pakistan. Although plagued with communal violence, the actual partition was done by peaceful means, highlighting that under the most challenging circumstances, peaceful separation is possible. This example underscores that nations can honorably separate from each other, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
It’s important to note that separation is not about war; it’s about recognizing when a union no longer serves its purpose and making the decision to opt out, just like Ireland did with the United Kingdom in 1921 and as Iceland did in 1944 with remarkable ease. Giving peace a chance and separating honorably is well within our reach.
Countries have also found power in rejecting the names imposed on them by colonizers. Myanmar emerged from Burma, Burkina Faso from Upper Volta, and Ghana from the Gold Coast. Each of these nations took control of their identity and in doing so set the stage for their development. What does all this mean for Nigeria? It could mean that peaceful separation is the key to resolving the current ethnicity crisis and spurring economic development. It could mean that a friendly competition between the North, West and East could lead to significant progress for all.
In summary, history shows us that peaceful separation can lead to economic development and a solution for ethnic crises. It shows us that there is nothing wrong with opting out of a union that no longer serves its purpose and that doing so can lead to a surge in growth and development. It shows us that taking control of our identity, like many have done in rejecting colonial names, can be a powerful catalyst for change.
This then can be the roadmap for solving the Nigerian ethnicity crisis and spurring economic development. It’s a path that requires courage and conviction, one that could lead to a brighter future for all Nigerians. As we continue our exploration, we must understand that this proposition is not just a call for separation but a comprehensive plan, a clarion call for all Nigerians to embark on a transformative journey. The potential benefits of separation and restructuring are vast, including fostering lasting peace, regional autonomy, and collective prosperity.
This transformative journey is about acknowledging the past, understanding the present, and shaping a better future. It’s about understanding that unity does not necessarily mean uniformity, it can also mean diversity in unity. It’s about understanding that separation does not necessarily mean disintegration, but can also mean restructuring for better functionality.
As we move forward, it is crucial for Nigeria to consider this functionality, to weigh the potential benefits against the potential drawbacks, and to make decisions that best serve the interests of its people. This is not just a journey for Nigeria; it’s a journey for every Nigerian, a journey towards a brighter future, a journey towards a new dawn.
Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
National Chairman AATSG.
11th February, 2024
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