Today, the world will come together to celebrate International Day for Tolerance. This day is a distinctive chance to raise public awareness of the threats of intolerance and that there is much that can be done at all levels to attach as well as mobilize these solutions and catalyze optimistic change. Working together, we as a united people have the potential to show that we can live a peaceful life.
For some years, terrorism, prejudice and violence has taken over the country and its effect can be felt from the North to the South. These acts of intolerance among religious groups and ethnic minorities have become the order of the day which can lead to threat on our young democracy and a big obstacle to development.
The United Nations have encouraged governments and heads of state, but also organizations and citizens, to promote human well-being, respect, dialogue and cooperation between cultures and people.
To fight intolerance, we require access to education and information to prevent conflicts. Education and Information will play a strong role in helping our cultural integration.
Back in the 90s, many Nigerian youth serving their fatherland enjoyed being a part of their host communities during the service year. It gave people the opportunity to know people of a different tribe, learning the language and culture of the host state/communities. We lived in peace and enjoyed each other’s presence.
Despite the launch of a new global campaign called TOGETHER by United Nations which aims to reduce negative attitude towards IDPs, refugees and to strengthen the social contract between host communities and migrants, the level of tolerance, respect and dignity across the country is still low.
The story has not changed as ethnic clashes are still on the rise in some major cities in the north as well as religious bigotry in the north east where the terrorist group Boko Haram has a stronghold.
The growth of tolerance begins with you. We need to stop generalization of each tribe and try to accord each other the respect.
Tolerance is a moral duty. In Nigeria, we need to sow seeds of tolerance in the minds of our youth and children, continually water them in order for tolerance to have a strong foothold.
By Abimbola Murtala
