The National Peace Committee (NPC) together with the European Union (EU) urged Nigerians on Tuesday to put national unity before ethnic, religious, or regional differences. They warned that unless these old divisions are addressed, Nigeria risks spiraling into deeper instability.
Bishop Matthew Kukah, convener of the NPC, highlighted that despite years of nation-building, Nigeria still battles internal conflicts and tensions that block real progress. He stressed that Nigeria’s Constitution already sets a clear framework for unity, prohibiting discrimination and guaranteeing freedom of movement and residence for all citizens.
Kukah called for a shift in mindset, saying Nigerians must stand united as citizens against oppression, instead of being divided by ethnicity or religion. “Without a common citizenship focus, we’ll continue mourning losses in separate languages,” he said. He reminded that the NPC was founded to inspire hope, unity, and reconciliation for national cohesion.
The EU’s Deputy Head of Delegation, Zissimos Vergos, praised dialogue and reflection as key to healing societal wounds and building an inclusive society where all Nigerians enjoy equal rights regardless of origin. He emphasized that reforms guaranteeing equal rights after sustained residency could turn divisions into strengths.
Cardinal John Onaiyekan also reminded Nigerians to reject bad elections and demand true democracy, stressing that credible elections are crucial for survival of democracy.
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