Don proffers solutions to separatist agitations in Nigeria

ESUT Professor Advocates Peace Dialogue for Separatist Agitations

A professor of Political Science at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Felix Asogwa, has stated that a national peace dialogue and the implementation of the 2014 National Conference Report would help quell separatist agitations in Nigeria.

Prof. Asogwa, who serves as the Director of ESUT Institute of Peace, Conflict, and Development Studies (IPCDS) and Senate Representative at the University Governing Council, also emphasized the need to review the role of the military in handling internal security issues. He argued that military personnel, due to their training, are not suited to address internal security challenges such as separatist movements.

Speaking at the 42nd ESUT inaugural lecture, themed “From Confrontation to Consensus: Re-engaging the Separatist Agitators for Sustainable Peace in the Nigerian State,” held at the Barr. Peter Mbah Multi-purpose Hall, ESUT, Prof. Asogwa outlined key steps towards achieving national unity.

He proposed that the first step in a national peace dialogue should be the release of leaders and members of separatist movements currently in detention, including the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Additionally, he called for regional peace dialogues to be held in geopolitical zones experiencing heightened separatist movements, particularly the South East and South West. He criticized the federal government’s reliance on administrative, legal, and repressive measures to curb agitations, stating that such approaches have failed to produce lasting peace.

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In his remarks, the Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Peter Mbah, commended the ESUT management for fostering rapid academic development. Represented by his deputy, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, the Governor noted that the frequent hosting of inaugural lectures at ESUT reflects the university’s commitment to research and academic excellence.

He also raised concerns about whether Nigeria’s constitution adequately considers the country’s multi-ethnic, linguistic, and religious diversity. He emphasized the need for an inclusive governance model that guarantees equal opportunities for all regions.

The Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers’ Council, HRM Igwe Ikechukwu Asadu, also lauded Prof. Asogwa’s lecture, advocating for a non-kinetic approach to resolving separatist movements in Nigeria. As a member of the Board of Trustees of the Council of Traditional Rulers in Africa, he urged the academic community to focus research efforts on addressing pressing national issues.

Prof. Mellitus Ezeamaenyi, Chairman of ESUT Inaugural Lectures Committee, congratulated Prof. Asogwa and emphasized that regular academic discussions, such as inaugural lectures, significantly enhance the university’s global visibility and webometric rankings.

The event was attended by top university officials, scholars, and international guests.