Boundary Disputes Require Dialogue, Not Violence – ESUT Professor Oji

A Political Science professor at the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Okechukwu Richard Oji, has called for dialogue as a key tool in resolving boundary disputes in Nigeria, particularly among the Igbo people of the South-East.

Speaking during the university’s 40th inaugural lecture at its permanent site in Agbani, Prof. Oji explored the topic, Politics of the Fence and Politics of the Bridge: Desiderata for Effective Boundary Management in Nigeria. He traced the historical roots of boundary disputes to colonial-era demarcations, which fragmented many Igbo communities across different states.

The professor noted that significant Igbo populations reside in states such as Kogi, Benue, Delta, Edo, Rivers, and Cross River—outside the core South-East region. Despite shared ethnic and cultural identities, these communities face political and administrative separation, weakening the collective political strength of the Igbo people.

“This separation has led to political marginalization and disunity, even among a historically cohesive ethnic group like the Igbo,” he remarked. “Boundary disputes not only destabilize the South-East region but also fracture the unity of the Igbo nation across Nigeria.”

Prof. Oji lauded the contributions of traditional institutions, faith-based organizations, youth and women’s groups, and civil society organizations in fostering peace. He urged individuals and groups to act as bridge builders to strengthen communal harmony.

He called on governments at all levels to invest in sustainable development, justice, and peacebuilding efforts. He also advocated for better funding for boundary management bodies such as the National Boundary Commission and State Boundary Commissions.

Prof. Oji proposed the establishment of an Institute for Boundary Studies at ESUT, emphasizing the importance of building tolerance, cooperation, and confidence among communities in the South-East.

Highlighting the effectiveness of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, he warned against using violence to address disputes. “Violence escalates tension, fosters chaos, and undermines any chance of a lasting solution,” he stressed. Instead, he urged communities to prioritize peaceful approaches to ensure stability and long-term resolution.