The Opposition and Government: Crossing Boundaries

Timothy Omo-bare, who served as the deputy Inspector General of Police, was present at the Aburi Peace Conference in Ghana on January 4 and 5, 1967. This meeting aimed to restore peace in Nigeria and avert the looming threat of a civil war. Among those participating were significant figures such as the then Head of State, Lt-Colonel Yakubu Gowon, Colonel Adeyinka Adebayo, and Lt- Colonel Odumegwu Ojukwu, alongside other high-ranking military officers.

Other key attendees included various secretaries responsible for different regional military governments, highlighting the crucial discussions that aimed to shape Nigeria's future amidst rising regional tensions.

Unfortunately, extremists within the military, like Major Murtala Mohammed and Captain T.Y. Danjuma, were not part of the talks, which were facilitated by Ghana's Head of State, General Joseph Arthur Ankrah.

Mr. Omo-bare took charge of mediating during a critical deadlock on the second day of the meeting. He was born in Edo State on January 26, 1913, and attended several prestigious institutions, culminating in a distinguished career in the police force from 1933 until 1970. His appeals during the meeting were unfortunately overlooked, and shortly thereafter, some of the officers returned to Nigeria, leading to the tragic civil war that left deep-seated scars.

In reflecting on Mr. Omo-bare's wisdom, it appears relevant to today's political climate in Nigeria, where a sense of desperation pervades. The ruling party and the opposition have seemingly crossed critical boundaries, each striving to undermine the other for electoral gain. They should understand that fracturing this great nation for political expediency is unwarranted and will yield no sanctuary for them should chaos ensue.

A 'red line' signifies a boundary that, if breached, produces significant consequences. This principle, when applied to negotiations or broader political discourse, is essential for maintaining order and civility.

Over time, these red lines have transitioned into frameworks utilized by leaders to establish non-negotiable parameters in political discussions. For individuals, defining personal boundaries serves a similar purpose, whether in interpersonal relationships or broader societal interactions.

As Nigeria anticipates its next presidential election, which many view as increasingly perilous, the political stakes are uniquely high compared to past contests. Recollecting the 1959 general election, the atmosphere was marked by passionate political engagement, untainted by the violence witnessed in recent times.

The election's fairness and orderliness were notable achievements, starkly contrasting with the current situation where political tensions manifest in crimes such as bombings and abductions that threaten public safety. It seems the ruling party and opposition are using tactics reminiscent of past strategies to discredit each other, continually escalating conflict.

A system predicated on a 'winner takes all' paradigm leads to disorder and delegitimizes opposing voices, creating a hostile political environment where no one feels represented.

For Nigeria to avoid further descent into turmoil, both parties must agree to a ceasefire. Allowing unchecked political ambitions to jeopardize national integrity could lead to irreparable damage. Politicians should practice restraint and prioritize Nigeria's unity over personal gains.

Eric Teniola, a former director at the Presidency, writes from Lagos.