Thursday, 28th March 2024
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We need a referendum

Sir: Last year the United Kingdom conducted a referendum on the independence of Scotland. Although the vote for independence was defeated, the margin was very slim.

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Sir: Last year the United Kingdom conducted a referendum on the independence of Scotland. Although the vote for independence was defeated, the margin was very slim. This year the United Kingdom will conduct another referendum to determine its continued membership of the European Union, and if Scotland votes to remain in the EU, this will necessitate another referendum on independence. But here in Nigeria any talk of independence of any of the ethnic nationalities is abhorred.

If the UK, our colonial master, can encourage a referendum for one of its component units why not Nigeria? Nigeria is long overdue for a referendum on its present status as a country. The level of mistrust is so palpable. Since we are finding it very difficult to live as a people let us then explore the option of living as neighbours.

Marriage is not a must neither is it by force. So also is friendship. This planet earth is big enough for all of us.

Basil Ogbanufe,
Lagos.

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