Professor Okechukwu Richard Oji of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) has called for dialogue as a means of resolving boundary disputes in Nigeria, particularly within the Igbo communities of the South-East.
Speaking at ESUT’s 40th inaugural lecture on “Politics of the Fence and Politics of the Bridge: Desiderata for Effective Boundary Management in Nigeria,” Prof. Oji traced the roots of many disputes to colonial boundary demarcations, which separated Igbo populations across state lines. He expressed concern that these divisions have fragmented the political strength of the Igbo and subjected those isolated from their kin to political marginalization and cultural disconnection.
Prof. Oji pointed to the substantial Igbo presence in states like Kogi, Benue, Delta, Edo, Rivers, and Cross River, where administrative boundaries hinder unity despite shared ethnic identity. He urged governments to support peacebuilding efforts and fund boundary management agencies like the National and State Boundary Commissions.
He recommended alternative dispute resolution (ADR) as the most effective approach and criticized violent methods, emphasizing that they escalate conflicts rather than provide lasting solutions. Prof. Oji also advocated for establishing an Institute for Boundary Studies at ESUT to promote tolerance and collaboration among communities.
Governor Peter Mbah, represented by Dr. Felix Nnamani, praised the lecture’s relevance to Enugu State’s development strategy and pledged to consider its recommendations. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, and other stakeholders highlighted the urgency of resolving boundary conflicts, which have caused significant losses in lives and properties in the region.