The Nation Awaits A Ceasefire: A Call For Justice And Reconciliation

Explore the call for reconciliation in Nigeria as survivors of the civil war, including Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwuma, reflect on the horrors of the Asaba genocide. Learn why January 15 should be a day of forgiveness and healing.

President Tinubu’s Plea for Debt Forgiveness

During the recently concluded United Nations General Assembly (September 10–24, 2024), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu passionately advocated for debt forgiveness for Nigeria. This plea comes at a critical time, as the nation grapples with challenges rooted in decades of economic mismanagement and systemic issues. The President’s call reminds us of the urgency to address these burdens before they deepen the nation’s struggles.

Debt forgiveness could pave the way for rebuilding and justice, but achieving this goal will require honesty and transparency, especially regarding past controversies tied to financial mismanagement. The time has come to not only seek relief but also to restore integrity to Nigeria’s narrative.

The Gravity of a Ceasefire

A ceasefire represents more than an end to violence; it symbolizes a commitment to justice, reconciliation, and genuine healing. In light of past conflicts, particularly the civil war, it is crucial for leaders to prioritize national unity and ensure that the wounds of the past are not ignored.

Emeritus Archbishop Most Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Chukwuma, who recently retired from priesthood, reflected on his experiences during the civil war and the profound need for national reconciliation. His insights highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing historical injustices, especially those borne by marginalized groups.

Reflections on the Asaba Genocide

The horrors of the Asaba genocide during the Nigerian Civil War remain a dark chapter in the nation’s history. As a survivor of the tragedy, Archbishop Chukwuma recounted the events that unfolded when Nigerian soldiers targeted innocent civilians in Asaba.

Separated by gender, men and boys were lined up and executed under accusations of being Biafran sympathizers. The Archbishop, then a teenager, narrowly escaped by feigning death as corpses fell on him. He recalls:

“I saw war with my eyes, I saw blood with my eyes. Innocent people were killed for nothing except being labeled ‘Ojukwu’s brothers.’ It was a serious genocide.”

The Archbishop also lamented the long-lasting effects of the war, including the destruction of homes, forced marriages, and the marginalization of the Igbo people.

A Call for National Apology and Recognition

Archbishop Chukwuma has consistently advocated for Nigeria to apologize to the people of Asaba and the eastern region for the atrocities committed during the civil war. He proposed January 15, his birthday, to be recognized as a national day of mourning, forgiveness, and thanksgiving for the war’s end.

Drawing parallels with the Biblical story of Noah, he emphasized the importance of acknowledging past sins and seeking divine forgiveness to foster healing and unity. He further urged President Tinubu to honor the people of Asaba and the eastern region, much like the posthumous recognition given to MKO Abiola.

“If the war has ended, we should thank God for it and make amends. Instead, the Igbo people are still sidelined and neglected. This is unfortunate.”

The Path Forward: Justice, Healing, and Reconciliation

To move forward as a united nation, Nigeria must confront its past with honesty. Recognizing the sacrifices and suffering of those affected by the civil war is a crucial step. Commemorating the victims of the Asaba genocide and other tragedies with a national day of reflection could foster reconciliation and pave the way for justice.

President Tinubu’s administration has the opportunity to lead this charge, ensuring that no part of the nation feels excluded or forgotten. Only through collective acknowledgment and sincere efforts can Nigeria achieve the peace and unity it so desperately seeks.

Conclusion

The nation’s plea for a ceasefire is not just about silencing guns but about mending broken relationships and restoring trust. By embracing justice and reconciliation, Nigeria can lay the groundwork for a more unified and prosperous future.

Let us remember the past, not with bitterness, but with the resolve to build a better tomorrow.