German Chancellor Bismarck in consultation with Britain's Gladstone called the Berlin Conference in November 1884. It convened to discuss the partitioning of Africa. Thus commenced a big scramble for the continent by imperial countries led by Britain, France, Germany, Belgium and Portugal. Spheres of influence were carved out to serve as trading outposts. This artificial creation is what we now celebrate as nations! Northern and Southern Rhodesia became Republics of Zambia and Zimbabwe. But in Nigeria's case, Northern and Southern protectorates were merged in 1914 by Lord and Lady Lugard. While one split up, the other amalgamated. Is it not duplicity? It is on this quicksand that Nigeria stands. Yet, we prepare to mark its 100 years! Will this arduous and tortuous journey ever end? Chief Obafemi Awolowo called it a "geographical expression" while the Sardauna said, "1914 was a mistake".
Chief lmam Taofeek Sanni,
Trade Fair Complex, Central Mosque, Lagos State,
+23480596177.
