From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
A Professor of Political Science at the Federal University, Lokoja , Segun Joshua, has said that politics in most third world countries propels conflict and insecurity.
Professor Joshua stated this while delivering the 36th Inaugural Lecture series of the University at its Adankolo Campus in Lokoja yesterday.
Professor Joshua in his lecture titled: The Voice Of Jacob But The Hands Of Esau: Unmasking The Masquerade Behind Conflict And Insecurity; noted that from his research “Politics serves as the intersection between conflict and insecurity.
He asserted that conflict dressed in the garments of ethnic, religious and cultural differences and resource war among others are indeed political.
He said that there is unhelpful partnership between politics and insecurity and that politics determines the management of security noting that if the twin problems of conflict and insecurity and many others will be solved, it should be through the instrumentality of politics.
He also said that the undesirable characterization of Nigeria in recent times by American President, Donald Trump as a country of particular concern is not unconnected with the carnage associated with conflict and insecurity in the country that has taken a religious twist stressing that it points directly to failure of leadership.
Professor Joshua attributed other causes of insecurity in Nigeria to unemployment and poverty, ethnic and clan-based divisions, corruption proliferation of small arms and light weapons, ICT revolution, resource conflicts, terrorism and extremist ideologies, militancy and insurgent movements as well as porous borders
“Nigeria has experienced repeated Muslim–Christian clashes, especially in Kano, Kaduna, and Jos. Democratic transition after years of military rule intensified identity tensions and unleashed suppressed grievances. Many “religious” conflicts are fundamentally political power struggles, with religion used as the mobilizing language.
“Scholars widely argue that ethnic and religious violence is often a strategy for political and economic control, not faith-driven hostility. Religion becomes a tool to rally followers, mask political/elite agendas, or justify struggles over resources, governance, or territorial control
“From the array of analyses of the various causative factors of conflict one can see that the major cause of conflict and insecurity is politics”
Professor Joshua however, recommended that for the nation to over come the rising insecurity “There is need to cultivate, culture and inculcate in the young ones and upcoming generation, the ideal leadership attributes to have a beautiful tomorrow.
“Ensure that diverse voices are included to reduce grievances, Policy- Making —- Develop policies addressing unemployment, poverty , and inequality that fuel conflict
“Conflict Resolution — use political processes to negotiate and settle disputes peacefully.
“Social Cohesion — Leaders should promote national unity, and treat the whole country as their constituency.
“Institutional Stability — Strong rule-base institutions creates stable foundation for peace.
“The decisions of our political leaders should go a long way to shape our collective destiny as a people and nation-states.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi disclosed that inaugural lectures are one of the most treasured traditions in the University academic system as they offer Professors the opportunity to present their scholarly journey; their research contributions, discoveries, and the impact of their work on society.
Professor Akinwumi said that universities do not pursue knowledge for its own sake, but for the advancement and wellbeing of humanity.
“When I assumed office, one of my clear missions was to strengthen this noble academic tradition. I challenged our Professors to rise to their responsibility and present their inaugural lectures.
“I extend my appreciation to all who have delivered theirs, and I am confident that those who are yet to present are already making firm preparations.I am happy that we are leaving behind a strengthened tradition; which I believe the next Vice-Chancellor will sustain and build upon.
He noted that Professor Segun Joshua’s topic “The Voice of Jacob but the Hands of Esau: Unmasking the Masquerade Behind Conflict and Insecurity” is not only striking and captivating, but profoundly relevant to the realities confronting our nation.
“I want to especially appreciate Professor Joshua for choosing a theme that Nigeria urgently needs at this moment. It is a topic that goes beyond academic discourse; it speaks directly to the heart of our national challenges.
“I am confident that the insights and recommendations from today’s lecture will help to chart new pathways toward addressing the insecurity bedevilling our nation.Our responsibility as a university extends beyond knowledge production. We must ensure that our research informs policy, strengthens communities, and contributes to national development”
