The adage “One man’s terrorist is another man’s freedom fighter” encapsulates a fundamental truth about the complexities of conflict. It highlights the subjective nature of perception, where ideologies clash, and the line between justice and violence becomes blurred.
History is replete with examples of individuals labelled as terrorists by one group, yet hailed as heroes by another.
Nelson Mandela, a revered symbol of freedom and equality, was once imprisoned by the British government for his role in the struggle against apartheid. While labelled as a terrorist by the regime, he was seen as a liberator by the oppressed black majority in South Africa.
His story, a poignant reminder of the shifting sands of perception, exemplifies how individuals can be both vilified and celebrated depending on the lens through which their actions are viewed.
In contemporary Nigeria, the figure of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), embodies this very paradox.
Kanu, who advocates for the secession of the Igbo people and the establishment of a sovereign Biafra nation, is considered a terrorist by the Nigerian government. He faces charges of treason and has spent years in detention, while his supporters see him as a champion of Igbo self-determination, fighting against decades of marginalization and injustice.
Kanu’s case underscores the deep-seated grievances and tensions that plague Nigeria.
The perceived marginalization of the Igbo people, coupled with historical grievances stemming from the Biafran War, have fueled a separatist movement that finds resonance with a significant segment of the Igbo population.
While Kanu’s pursuit of secession through violent means is a cause for concern and has sparked conflict in the Southeast, his recent willingness to explore a peaceful resolution offers a glimmer of hope.
His call for an out-of-court settlement and his recognition that the struggle has been hijacked from him, demonstrate a shift in perspective and a desire for dialogue.
The Nigerian government must seize this opportunity to give peace a chance in the Southeast.
Ignoring this plea for dialogue would be a grave error, perpetuating the cycle of violence and deepening the chasm of mistrust.
Instead, the government should engage in earnest discussions with Kanu and other stakeholders, addressing the legitimate concerns of the Igbo people.
A peaceful resolution, addressing the root causes of the conflict, is the only path to lasting peace and stability in the Southeast.
It is time to move beyond the labels of “terrorist” and “freedom fighter” and engage in a process of reconciliation, where genuine dialogue can bridge the divides and heal the wounds of the past.
The pursuit of peace is not a sign of weakness, but a testament to strength and wisdom. The Nigerian government must demonstrate this courage and embark on a path of dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation, ensuring a brighter future for all Nigerians.
This article was written by Afolabi Yusuf Olawale
