By Linus Aleke, Abuja
A consortium of civil societies in Nigerian, operating under the canopy of National Rescue Congress (NRC), has
called for nonviolent resistance against oppression, and bad governance in the country.
Coordinator of NRC, Barr Emmanuel Ihim, made this call at a conference to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Nelson Mandela, in Abuja, with the theme, “Mandela’s Legacy: A Catalyst to Inspire National Rebirth”.
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He noted that the event is not just a commemoration but a clarion call for a national rebirth inspired by Mandela’s legacy of courage, resilience, and nonviolent resistance.
Embodying Mandela’s vision in its pursuit, the group said, “In a world like Nigeria, often marred by conflict and injustice, his legacy stands as a beacon of hope, guiding us toward a future where dialogue, empathy, and understanding prevail over violence and oppression. Nelson Mandela’s life was a testament to the transformative power of nonviolent resistance and the pursuit of democratic ideals— a narrative rich with courage, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to justice and equality. This ethos that Mandela exemplifies should be a beacon for nations like Nigeria, seeking to navigate the complex waters of socio-political transformation. As we endeavor to build a free, and prosperous nation, Mandela’s legacy offers both inspiration and a blueprint for achieving these lofty goals. As we strive for the rebirth of Nigeria, our actions and choices must reflect Mandela’s vision, a vision where every individual is valued and every voice is heard”.
He noted that democracy lies at the heart of its national rebirth, stressing, “it is the soil where the seeds of progress and equality are sown”.
He said that the group’s focus must be on strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring fair and transparent governance, and fostering an environment where every citizen can participate meaningfully in the democratic process.
Barr Ihim said that it’s about creating a Nigeria where the rule of law is respected, where human rights are protected, and where diversity is celebrated as a strength.
He promised to nurture a new generation of leaders who embody Mandela’s values of integrity, empathy, and service to humanity, explaining that it means investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure that lay the foundation for sustainable development and a prosperous future.
The Coordinator added: “In these times of tumult and uncertainty, the NRC seeks to ignite a spirit of selfless service and democratic commitment, particularly among Nigerian youth, drawing lessons from Mandela’s life and other African revolutionaries. Through this initiative, the NRC aims to bring a national renaissance, celebrating the courage and vision of African leaders who have shaped our continent’s destiny. As the world marks a significant milestone in remembering one of its most fantastic sons, Nelson Mandela. We are reminded of a legacy that transcends time and geography. As we conclude this momentous period of reflection and commemoration, it’s essential to recognize that our journey towards national rebirth is not just a series of events or remembrances but leveraging Mandela’s enduring legacy”.
This journey, he said, is a manifestation of commitment to the principles Mandela valiantly fought for – principles of justice, equality, and the indomitable spirit of nonviolent resistance.
“It’s a promise we make to future generations, a pledge to create a world that upholds the ideals Mandela dedicated his life to. It is a path that we, especially in Nigeria, must courageously tread upon — nonviolent resistance, leading to democratic change and national rebirth,” he concluded.
An activists, whistle blower, and justice advocate, Comrade Abdulmumini Shehu Sani, said that the inspiring story of Nelson Mandela is a message to the youths of this generation that must take their future into their own hands.
The strength of the forces that perpetuate tyranny and injustice, he said, is never an excuse to fold arms and accept a life of bondage and unrelenting hardship and suffering.
Comrade Sani, lamented that nonchalance and inaction in the face of oppression and injustice is a major catalyst to the continued suppression of the youths and indeed all citizens of a country.
The Katsina born activist added that Nigerian’s reality is the denial of fundamental rights of affordable shelter, medical care, education, and other essential necessities of life that should be accessible to all in an egalitarian society.
He said, the youths have a choice to emulate the resistance spirit of Nelson Mandela and fight until they restore their God-given rights and freedoms, or fold their arms and watch themselves and their children being enslaved by greedy, insatiable, bloodthirsty, heartless, thieving and selfish politicians that are without a conscience and without shame, and therefore only care about their own immediate needs, wants, and luxuries to the complete detriment, destruction, starvation and annihilation of the working and lower class in Nigeria.
He noted that when Nelson Mandela was presented with the grim choice of resistance, fight, sacrifice, imprisonment and even suffering that will led to his eventual victory over the forces of oppression in his society, or indifference and continuation in oppression and segregation, he chose the former
He explained that the consequences of bad governance in Nigeria, will catch up with succeeding generation earlier than they expected it.
The activist therefore, charged the youths to immediately act like Nelson Mandela, to reclaim their country, adding that older generation has no stake in Nigeria because very soon they will be exiting from the scene.
In conclusion, he tasked the youths not to allow the older generation ruin their future.
