Hello friends, I am Dr. Charles Apoki. Today, I must address a pressing issue that threatens the unity and progress of our nation. Recent calls for war and disintegration in Nigeria by some Northern elders and clerics are not only irresponsible but also dangerous. These statements must be condemned and stopped immediately.
A History We Should Never Repeat
I grew up during the Nigerian Civil War. I witnessed the horrors firsthand—neighbors turning against neighbors, buildings destroyed, and lives lost. The sight of dead bodies and the fear instilled by gunshots haunted me as a child. Families hid in fear, and even simple acts like carrying a lantern at night became risky due to bombings.
Those calling for war today fail to understand its devastating consequences. They have not experienced the chaos and suffering that war brings. Their ignorance is alarming, and their rhetoric is reckless.
Recklessness of Recent Statements
Some Northern elders and clerics have made inflammatory remarks, using derogatory language against other tribes and religions. Statements like “drink your oil” and threats of war are not only divisive but also hypocritical. These individuals should be held accountable, just as others have been detained for making lesser statements.
If a Southern individual made such remarks, they would face immediate consequences. Why, then, should these Northern voices be exempt? Equality and justice must prevail in our nation.
The Reality of War
To those calling for war: do you understand what it means? Have you seen the destruction and suffering caused by wars in countries like Sudan, Yugoslavia, and even Ukraine? Modern warfare is devastating, with advanced weapons like drones causing unimaginable damage.
War is not a game. It disrupts economies, destroys lives, and leaves scars that take generations to heal. The North itself is grappling with issues like Boko Haram, banditry, and herdsmen crises. Shouldn’t the focus be on solving these internal problems rather than calling for more conflict?
The Hypocrisy of the Elite
The irony is that the elite, who benefit from the current system, are not the ones calling for war. Rich individuals with businesses and investments across the country understand the value of unity. It is often the poor and frustrated, who have nothing to lose, that are manipulated into supporting such dangerous ideas.
A Call for Responsibility
Rather than calling for war, we must hold our leaders accountable. Governors, senators, and other officials must be responsible for the welfare of their people. As citizens, we must demand development, security, and good governance—not destruction.
Nigeria is a large, diverse nation with immense potential. Our population and resources are strengths that should unite us, not divide us. The examples of countries like Brazil, the United States, and China show how large populations can drive economic growth when properly managed.
Let’s Build, Not Destroy
I love my friends in the North, South, East, and West. We are one people with a shared destiny. Let us reject the voices of division and focus on building a nation where everyone can thrive.
Together, we can make Nigeria a better place for all.
God bless you,
Dr. Charles Apoki
