Professor of political economy and management expert Pat Utomi blamed Nigerian politicians for the country’s divisions during the “1st Tony Uranta Memorial Lecture” in Lagos State. Utomi warned that politicians often exploit differences to manipulate emotions and secure votes. The lecture, organized by the Tony Uranta Foundation, centered on the theme “Unity in Diversity: Building a National Identity Beyond Ethno‑Religious Fault Lines.” He expressed concern that the political class has lost sight of Nigeria’s vision and called for new thinking to move the nation forward.
Ambassador Godknows Ighali, the event’s chairman, reminded attendees that Nigeria was deliberately created by its founders, who agreed on the terms of unity from 1950 to the Independent Constitution of 1963. He emphasized that the country was intended to be a place where all Nigerians are treated equally, with free and fair elections.
Mrs. Baarong Uranta, the widow of the late Tony Uranta, described her husband as a patriot and nationalist who fought for political and social reforms in the Niger‑Delta and across Nigeria. She founded the TIU Foundation to continue his legacy, promoting unity, fairness, equity, and justice for all citizens.
A panel discussion followed, featuring experts Dr. George Etomi, Dr. Bisi Akin‑Alabi, and Mr. Zakka Bala. They stressed the need for equity, peace, and mutual sensitivity, urging the equal application of the rule of law regardless of region, tribe, or religion, and calling for a recalibration of strategies in the national interest.
The lecture served as a tribute to Tony Uranta, a Niger‑Delta activist who died in 2021, and highlighted the urgent need for unity and progress in Nigeria’s diverse society. As the nation navigates its challenges, the call for unity and equality remains pressing, urging both politicians and citizens to work toward a more inclusive and just society.
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