Atlantic Post

As Africa experiences a wave of emancipation, Nigeria finds itself grappling with a seemingly endless free-fall across all fronts. The stark contrast between the transformative movements in Francophone West Africa and the stagnation in Nigeria has raised questions about why Nigeria, once poised to lead the charge against colonial and neocolonial legacies, has lagged behind. Tony Nnadi of the Nigerian Indigenous Nationalities Alliance for Self-determination (NINAS) offers a critical analysis of this complex issue, highlighting the imperative of sovereignty recovery for Nigeria.

A Comparative Analysis: Francophone West Africa vs. Nigeria

Nnadi attributes the recent successes in Francophone West Africa to the historical context of French colonial policy, which, despite its assimilation approach, allowed these countries to reclaim their sovereignty more effectively. The Francophone nations, unified by a common oppressor—France—had to primarily dislodge local agents of French influence to regain control over their destinies.

In stark contrast, Nigeria’s colonial history under British rule created a more intricate and entrenched system of control. The British established a resident hegemon in the form of the Fulani, who, in a joint venture with Britain, marginalized the Indigenous Peoples of Nigeria. This collaboration between British colonial powers and the Fulani created a deeply rooted local agency that has perpetuated Nigeria’s systemic dysfunction.

The Artificiality of Nigeria

Nnadi emphasizes that Nigeria is an artificial construct, sustained by deceit, force, and the imposition of a unitary constitutional arrangement. This constitution, falsely credited to “We the Peoples of Nigeria,” serves to enslave the Indigenous Peoples under a façade of democracy. The systemic implantation of divisions among Nigeria’s various nationalities has prevented any meaningful cooperation among the victimized natives, further entrenching the hegemonic control.

The national rhetoric, filled with empty declarations and misleading clichés such as “Nigeria’s Unity is Non-Negotiable” and “Nigeria First,” fails to resonate with the Indigenous Peoples. These slogans mask the reality of a fragmented nation where loyalty and allegiance are sustained by threats and benefits rather than genuine national unity.

The Path to Sovereignty Recovery

Nnadi argues that the most urgent task for the Indigenous Peoples of Nigeria is to recover their sovereignty from these internal colonizers. The key to this recovery lies in dismantling the fraudulently imposed unitary constitution that locks Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups into a union of death, attrition, and backwardness. This requires a coordinated effort to topple the constitutional order that perpetuates their enslavement and to restore sovereignty to the natives.

The Role of NINAS

The Nigerian Indigenous Nationalities Alliance for Self-determination (NINAS) has been at the forefront of this struggle. NINAS advocates for a joint jailbreak from the unitary constitutional arrangement, campaigning for the reconfiguration of Nigeria’s political structure to allow for unfettered self-determination of its indigenous nationalities. This movement seeks to empower the Indigenous Peoples to rework their political existence or coexistence on their terms, free from the constraints of the current oppressive system.

The Broader African Context

Nnadi’s insights extend beyond Nigeria, highlighting a continental struggle against the suzerainty of foreign hegemons. The article “Africa Revolt” by NINAS outlines the broader task of recovering long-suppressed sovereignties across Africa. This struggle is not just about reclaiming political control but also about dismantling the structures that have perpetuated Africa’s subjugation under foreign domination.

The EndSARS Movement: A Case Study in Resistance

The 2020 EndSARS protests provide a poignant example of the struggle for sovereignty and justice within Nigeria. What began as a movement against police brutality quickly evolved into a broader call for systemic change. The Nigerian government’s response—characterized by denial, repression, and ultimately, violent crackdown—exposed the depth of the country’s authoritarian tendencies.

The tragic events at the Lekki Tollgate on October 20, 2020, where soldiers opened fire on peaceful protesters, highlighted the brutal lengths to which the regime would go to maintain control. The massacre was a stark reminder of the urgency of defending democracy and civil liberties in Nigeria.

The Need for Vigilance and Action

Nnadi’s analysis underscores the need for vigilance and collective action to defend democracy in Nigeria. The Buhari administration’s pattern of contempt for constitutional rights and civil liberties reflects a broader trend towards authoritarianism that threatens to undermine Nigeria’s democratic foundations. The illegal detentions of activists and political opponents, the suppression of dissent, and the use of violence against peaceful protesters all point to an alarming erosion of democratic norms.

The Way Forward

To reclaim their sovereignty and secure a democratic future, the Indigenous Peoples of Nigeria must remain vigilant and resist efforts to erode their rights. This involves:

1. Upholding Civil Liberties: Defending the constitutional rights of speech, assembly, and association against government suppression.
2. Ensuring Accountability: Demanding justice for the victims of the Lekki Tollgate massacre and holding those responsible accountable.
3. Promoting Political Engagement: Encouraging active participation in the political process to hold leaders accountable and push for meaningful reforms.
4. Fostering Inclusive Governance: Implementing comprehensive reforms that address the root causes of the EndSARS protests and promote inclusive governance.
5. Leveraging International Support: Engaging the international community to apply diplomatic pressure and support Nigeria’s democratic aspirations.

Conclusion: Defending Democracy

The struggle for sovereignty and democracy in Nigeria is ongoing. The EndSARS movement and the Lekki Tollgate massacre have shown the power of collective action and the resilience of the Nigerian people. As Tony Nnadi and NINAS advocate, reclaiming sovereignty from internal colonizers and dismantling the oppressive constitutional order are crucial steps towards a democratic and just Nigeria.

By standing together and demanding change, Nigerians can ensure that the sacrifices of the past are not in vain and that a more equitable and democratic society is built for future generations. The defence of democracy is a collective responsibility that requires unwavering commitment and vigilance.

Stay informed with the Atlantic Post for more in-depth analysis and commentary on the socio-political issues shaping Nigeria and the world.