By Christopher Sunday, Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja
Human existence is a tapestry woven with diverse identities, beliefs, and aspirations. While differences naturally exist, history teaches us that societies that embrace unity amidst diversity thrive, while those that allow division to fester remain stagnant or collapse. Kogi State, as a microcosm of Nigeria, embodies this reality. Its rich cultural, religious, and political diversity should be a source of strength, not strife. However, when mismanaged, these differences breed distrust, rivalry, and stagnation. True progress demands that we rise above ethnic, religious, and political barriers to forge a common destiny—one that prioritizes peace, development, and collective well-being.
For Kogi State to truly harness its potential, political fairness and inclusiveness must be the foundation of governance. Leadership, in its purest philosophical sense, is not about dominion but about service. Power must be seen as a tool for development, not as a trophy to be won by one group at the expense of others. Governance must reflect the needs of the entire state, ensuring that no region feels excluded. The principle of power rotation should serve as a mechanism for balance, not a weapon for division. A just society is one where competence and vision determine leadership, not mere ethnic considerations. Political maturity requires that we judge leaders based on their performance, not on tribal affiliations.
Irrespective of political party affiliation, after an election and a winner is announced, such a leader ought to be respected. In a democracy, the right to seek redress in court is fundamental. However, once the judiciary delivers its verdict, that verdict must be respected. Democracy thrives not just on elections but on adherence to the rule of law. A society that disregards lawful rulings invites anarchy, and anarchy breeds destruction. Beyond elections, we must differentiate between politics and governance. Elections may divide us into different camps, but governance must unify us under a shared purpose. Leaders must be supported to succeed because their failure affects everyone, regardless of ethnic or political leanings.
Leadership, however, is not just about authority—it is about responsibility. Governance must be inclusive and all-encompassing. Any administration that neglects certain regions or ethnic groups creates the conditions for resentment and disunity. Justice demands that every Kogite, regardless of tribe or location, feels a sense of belonging. The equitable distribution of development projects, appointments, and social programs is not just a political necessity; it is a moral imperative. The human soul yearns for fairness, and a government that embodies justice strengthens the bond between the people and the state.
We must learn to forgive and let go of past grievances. True peace is built on reconciliation, not on an endless cycle of retaliation. Leaders must reject the temptation to use political vengeance as a tool of governance. Retaliation only deepens divisions, while forgiveness fosters healing and unity. No society can move forward if it remains shackled by the chains of past grudges. The mark of a great leader is the ability to rise above personal conflicts and work towards a collective future.
Another pressing issue is the rise of political opportunists—those who seek appointments through backbiting, blackmail, and cheap popularity. Leadership should not be handed to those who thrive on division and deceit. Leaders must surround themselves with individuals of integrity, not sycophants whose only agenda is personal gain. Anyone who betrays his people for selfish interests should be regarded as a traitor, for such individuals endanger the collective progress of the state. A government built on lies and betrayals is bound to fail, but one built on trust and sincerity will endure.
Political appointments must be based on merit, not mere compensation. Public office is not a reward for political loyalty but a responsibility that requires competence and vision. While it is natural to compensate those who contributed to an election victory, such rewards must be done appropriately and based on the capacity of the recipient. Appointing individuals who lack the skills and knowledge for their roles only weakens governance and sets the state back. A state that prioritizes competence over favoritism will always outperform one that prioritizes loyalty over ability.
The role of advisers in governance cannot be overstated. Plato, in his political philosophy, emphasized the importance of wise counsel in leadership. Advisers to political leaders must uphold integrity, resisting the temptation of self-interest. Governance fails when personal ambitions overshadow collective progress. Those entrusted with advising our leaders must prioritize the long-term good of the state over short-term personal gains. A philosopher once said, “The greatness of a leader is measured by the wisdom of his counsel.” Kogi’s progress depends on the quality of advice given to those in power.
Beyond politics, religion must be a force for unity, not division. Religion, at its core, is meant to elevate human morality and promote harmony. Kogi State, home to Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers, must reject any attempt to weaponize faith for political or ethnic superiority. Religious leaders hold immense influence and must use their platforms to preach peace, tolerance, and coexistence. Interfaith dialogue should not be an occasional event but a continuous process where mutual understanding is fostered. The true test of religion is not in how fervently it is professed but in how sincerely it promotes love and unity among people.
Another major source of discord in society is economic disparity and uneven development. Philosophers have long argued that social justice is the bedrock of peace. The uneven distribution of resources creates tension, and if left unchecked, can lead to unrest. Economic policies in Kogi State must be designed to provide opportunities across all regions. Infrastructure projects, industries, and social welfare programs should be equitably spread. Youth unemployment, if not addressed, will continue to fuel crime, violence, and political thuggery. True empowerment comes not from handouts but from access to education, skills, and opportunities.
Culture should serve as a bridge, not a barrier. Kogi’s cultural diversity is one of its greatest assets, yet it remains largely underutilized. Festivals, traditions, and heritage should be platforms for interethnic understanding rather than symbols of division. A state-wide cultural festival could celebrate the rich traditions of all Kogites, fostering deeper appreciation and respect among ethnic groups. The power of culture lies in its ability to unify people through shared experiences, art, music, and storytelling. By celebrating our differences in a common space, we break down walls of prejudice and build bridges of understanding.
The youth of Kogi State must rise above division and lead the charge for unity. Young people must resist being used as tools for ethnic and political conflicts. Aristotle once noted that the youth are the heartbeat of any society—their energy, if properly channeled, can drive innovation, peace, and prosperity. Kogi’s youth must embrace education, entrepreneurship, and leadership roles that transcend tribal and religious lines. Social media, which often amplifies hate and misinformation, should be used for enlightenment and peacebuilding. The future of Kogi State belongs to those who see beyond tribe and religion, those who focus on progress rather than division.
Security is the foundation of development. Without peace, nothing thrives. No investor will come to a state plagued by violence, no infrastructure will be sustained in an atmosphere of insecurity, and no society can progress under constant fear. Security must be seen as a collective responsibility. Communities must work with law enforcement agencies to prevent crime and conflict. Leaders, both political and traditional, must use their influence to promote dialogue and conflict resolution. Philosophically, peace is not just the absence of war—it is the presence of justice, security, and opportunity. If we want a peaceful Kogi, we must ensure fairness in governance, equity in development, and inclusiveness in leadership.
The road to unity is not an easy one, but it is a necessary one. Governments must govern with justice, leaders must lead with fairness, and citizens must embrace peace over division. The greatness of any society is not in its homogeneity but in its ability to turn diversity into strength. Kogi State has all it takes to be a model of unity in Nigeria. It only requires a collective decision—one that says “No” to ethnic bigotry, “No” to religious intolerance, “No” to political violence, and “Yes” to peace, progress, and prosperity.
Kogi State is one people, one destiny—together, we rise!