APPIAH’S COSMOPOLITANISM AND IGWEBUIKE PHILOSOPHY AS CATALYSTS FOR NIGERIA’S NATIONAL UNITY: A PHILOSPHICAL ASSESSMENT

Abstract

The amalgamation of Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba and other minor ethnic groups into one country called Nigeria has been in serious crises not long after its formation as there was no strong basis for this unity. Since Nigerian independence, the country have witnessed series of agitations, riots, ethnic clashes and even civil war. In the 21st century, these ethnic tensions persist and have intensified, now compounded by various forms of terrorism. The Fulani headsmen appear to be among the deadliest terrorist group today. Other security threats include: Boko haram group, un-known gun men and agitators of various groups across all parts of the country. Under the poor leadership of All Progressive Congress (APC) government, terrorism, agitations, and ethnic clashes and ethnic cleansing seem unlikely to end any time soon. From a philosophical perspective, Appia’s cosmopolitanism and his emphasis on inter dependence as portrayed in the Ethics of Identity; serve as a catalyst for national unity. Similarly, the Igwebuike philosophy rooted in Igbo world view emphasizes unity and cooperation despite differences in identity or ideology. Both philosophies advocate for unity in diversity as foundational principle for nation building. The lessons from these two philosophies converge: they propose that unity amidst diversity is possible and essential. Through the application of Igwebuike philosophy, even the deadliest acts of terrorism by herdsmen and other violent groups could be curtailed, ethnic rivalries could be reconciled and peace restored to the nation. Our methodology is philosophical analysis. We analyze concepts, words, ideas, experiences to bring deeper meaning and clarity of thought. This involves resolving complex expressions into simpler foundational ones and elucidating their use within a given discourse.