BLOODY TEARS MOPPING THE FLOORS OF MY HOMELAND

Herdsmen with weapons in Nigeria.

It is no longer news that series of killings perpetuated by the herdsmen has not just persisted but have claimed countless lives and rendered so many homeless but not hopeless. As heartbreaking as this is, it is not suffice to be relaxed in waiting for peace that is obviously threatened. This callous and abominable act must not be treated with levity and lukewarm attitude.


Just this this week, the leader of the Miyeti Allah was a guest on a TV program and he pleaded innocence on behalf of his people (The Fulani's) as he claimed that the killings were being politically masterminded to tarnish the image of his “peace loving” people. Though I do not want to sound aghast by his response, it is also on record, that this same group had time and again threatened fire and brimstone on the people of Benue for enacting the Anti-grazing Law. But what is more worrisome is the “I don’t care” body language of the security forces to all of these.

Either ways, my pain and disappointment is boundless whether the dreaded killing is masterminded by the Fulanis or not. The bloodletting is becoming inordinate and its high time we did something. No matter what could seem a good reason for agitation, human lives should not be substituted for anything by anybody. When we try to overcome foreign dominance, we initiate and institute indigenous strategies to get us burying our bloods.

Now to the political, religious and traditional leaders, no child should be stranded in the presence of parents. They should also be reminded that leadership is not just about marking time in offices but to make a difference, albeit a positive difference. To whoever must have killed and succeeded, to whoever have destroyed the joy and peace of others for their selfish gain must not forget that no one has the monopoly of violence, for even the most peaceful of men would react when pushed to the wall. and to whoever have been grieved in the cause of the serial massacre, I offer my heartfelt and sincere condolence over the losses.

And to all Nigerian youths, this is a call to action, this is a time to awaken our consciousness, a time to fight softly without blood (critical decision making and thorough brainstorming). We cannot continue to remain silent while our fellow citizens are slaughtered for no just cause. We must take bold steps towards a peaceful and sustainable future. Your actions and opinions must not be based along selfish ethnic, religious and political lines. An injury to one should be an injury to all. Let your voices be heard until peace is returned to our homeland.