Disturbed by the prevailing economic situation and political injustice in the country, a Non-Governmental Organization, Positive Change Trailblazer Initiative, has advocated for a reset of mindset, describing it as the panacea to the age-long problem bedeviling the nation.
The group noted with dismay that after 64 years of independence, the nation still found herself in the present position.
In its bid to proffer a lasting solution to the multifaceted problems confronting the nation, the PCTI organized a lecture themed: Nigeria at 64: The Need for Deeper Reflection and Orientation Shift, which was held at the University of Ibadan.
In his presentation, Prof. Yusuf Hakeem submitted that Nigeria’s Transitional Justice approach has been criticized for prioritizing the preservation of colonial-era power structures, thereby favoring the interests of the local elites over those of victims of human rights violations.
He added that the phenomenon is rooted in the legacy of colonialism, which has significantly impacted the country’s governance, rule of law, and nation-building processes.
The legacy of colonialism, according to him, has left indelible marks on Nigeria’s socio-political and economic landscape.
His words: “The institutional legacy of colonial-style governance, adopted and adapted by the local elites, has perpetuated impunity and limited transitional justice efforts.
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The result is a governance that resists structural changes necessary for redress and institutional reforms.
“Several factors hinder transitional justice in Nigeria. The power dynamic at play, with the local elites’ grip on power and their reluctance to relinquish privileges, poses significant challenges.
“Transitional justice can contribute to state-building in post-colonial settings by addressing colonial legacies, promoting accountability, and fostering inclusive governance. By confronting historical injustice and empowering marginalized communities, Nigeria can create a more sustainable foundation for peace and development.
“By engaging with these complexities, Nigeria can move towards a just and equitable future where the rights of all citizens are respected and protected.”
In his presentation, a Professor of Rural Sociology, Ismail, stressed the need for a change of mindset for the nation to move forward.
He noted that despite the huge natural resources that abound in the country, the nation is still backward economically.
According to him, “If truly we want a change, we should start thinking about the leadership.
“The kind of politics that we are playing in the country will get us nowhere.”
The convener of the meeting, Akeem Aderinto, said the PCTI has taken its campaign for change to the grassroots and thereby solicited the support of the relevant agencies of government.