Osinbajo Leads Call for Unity in North-Central Nigeria

Former Vice-President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, alongside traditional rulers, religious leaders, and policy experts, called for urgent measures to combat polarisation and rebuild civic cohesion in North-central Nigeria during a national dialogue in Jos. The event was organized by the Justice Research Institute in partnership with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, focusing on the theme ‘Countering Polarisation and Rebuilding Civic Cohesion in North Central Nigeria: Beyond Tribe and Faith, Reclaiming Our Shared Stories.’ Osinbajo highlighted that lasting peace requires justice, accountability, and reconciliation, drawing comparisons to South Africa and Rwanda.

He stressed the importance of addressing injustices, including restitution for land and compensation for losses. NIPSS Director-General Prof. Ayo Omotayo noted the significance of storytelling in national reconciliation, while Emir of Lafia Justice Sidi Bage (rtd) emphasized the need for dialogue and mutual respect.

Participants agreed on the necessity of inclusive governance and stronger conflict-resolution mechanisms to achieve lasting peace.