The Search For A New Nigeria (6): Unity In Diversity And Our Humanity -By Richard Odusanya

“We are going forward with the idea of a multicultural, and multinational state, trying to live in unity, at the same time respecting our diversity. But we need to come together so we can live united” “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.” – Henry Ford.

The concept of “Unity in Diversity” is effective in solving various social problems. This is made possible by the reason of diverse people from different backgrounds coming together and knowing each other better. Consequently, this increases mutual respect among the people. Unity in Diversity is very useful for a diverse country, such as our beloved country Nigeria. This is also based on an understanding of our peculiarities as a nation.

It does signifies unity among individuals who have certain differences among themselves. The differences can be on the basis of culture, language, ideology, religion, sect, class, ethnicity, etc. Recognizing and appreciating each other’s differences not only create an environment that is inclusive to everyone, it also promote healthy and prosperous society.

These concept of “Unity in Diversity” is an idea whose time has come and cannot be stopped. The best option for us as a nation in dire need of peace and tranquility is to kickstart the process of dialogue not warfare. The “UBUNTU” concept readily comes to mind. “Unity without uniformity and diversity without fragmentation” that shift focus from unity based on a mere tolerance of physical, cultural, linguistics, social, religion, politics, ideological and/or psychology differences towards a mere complex arrangements.

The unity of Nigeria can never be sustained by GUNS and BULLETS. We need genuine dialogue anchored on truth and sincerity. The type that the famous global icon Nelson Mandela offered the good people of South Africa and was replicated in Kenya recently by President Uhuru Kenyatta the current president of the Republic of Kenyan.

At a time like this, particularly, in the holy Month of ‘Ramadan’ as the felicitations and celebrating with our Muslim brothers and sisters commence; let the “UBUNTU” concept envelope us. This has become imperative for us as a nation under the Merciful God. This is how to begin to demonstrate our HUMANITY to the glory of Merciful God.

Unity is strength. Where there is unity there is always victory. An enviable society is built and achieved by the strength of unity and purposeful leadership. It’s very paramount to maintain peace and unity in the multi-ethnic and multi-religious country of Nigeria. Let’s treat and see each other as one family irrespective of our diversification, not just in words but actions.

It is important to recognize, religion as ubiquitous that should necessarily have to demonstrate love and togetherness, not divisiveness and hate. We need to understand and appreciate the messages of the Prophets: “Do not exercise extremism in your religion. Many Nations have perished because of extremism.”

The Holy books also validates the position. Let’s put sentiment aside and let love lead. We need to learn from the dangerous extremism and fanatical mindset, like the Isa Ali Pantami ‘saga’ a full grown man of over thirty years of age that was said to be a juvenile when he conducted himself in a most despicable and irresponsible manner by preaching hate and openly endorse terrorism. Therefore, those who engage in extremism are either ignorant or for selfish reasons.

Conclusively, we should quit making broad assumption on other ethnic tribes, and start to hold our feelings toward other ethnic clans if harmony and solidarity should reign in Nigeria. The thought of “we” versus “them” should be halted for Nigeria to remain more stronger, more safe and more united. Religion is something worth being thankful for, yet its practice ought to be private – just between you and your God on whom you believe. We ought to figure out how to leave our religion at our homes and do whatever it takes not to convey it along and enforce it in our public square. Nigeria was built on the foundation of tolerance and solidarity.

UNITED WE ARE STRONG, DIVIDED WE FALL. RAMADAN KAREEM.

Richard Odusanya is a Social Reform Crusader and the convener of AFRICA COVENANT RESCUE INITIATIVE ACRI.