CONTRADICTION OF CONTRADICTIONS: REBUILDING A SOCIETY IN RUINS- *OZIOMACHI*
The concept of “Contradiction of Contradictions” might seem complex and abstract and a repetitive play on words. However, it can be interpreted in multidimensional perspectives. Concisely, dwelling within the context of rebuilding a society in ruins, it could refer to the paradoxical nature of attempting to create a new, improved harmonious society while still being influenced by the contradictions, oddities and flaws of the preceding society.
In other words, a determined, concerted effort to rebuild or create a better society may be stunted, distorted by the same contradictions and flaws that led to the failures and downfall of the previous society. Implicitly instituting a cyclical order of contradictions, where the attempts to resolve one contradiction lead to the creation of new ones. That is, a perpetuation of the old system in the new order.
In order to put paid to an unending cycle of contradictions in the society, it is quite apt to recognise and acknowledge the prevailing contradictions and flaws of the previous society and make concerted efforts to stop the cyclical order and also be determined to address and resolve them in the process of rebuilding. This requires a critical examination of the past, a willingness to learn from mistakes, and a commitment to creating a more just and equitable society. It equally calls for a national plan that outlines the national interest and direction for all citizens.
Some possible ways to eliminate the contradiction of contradictions in the rebuilding efforts in a society in ruins include encouraging open dialogue and critical discourse to identify and challenge underlying contradictions and flaws. It will further require fostering a culture of patriotism that promotes transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness that ensures that all voices are heard and valued. This, in addition to prioritizing education, critical thinking, and media literacy that galvanises the citizens into navigating complex information landmines and be able to form individual opinions and make informed decisions. This should be accompanied by the incubation of a system that promotes social and economic justice by addressing systemic inequalities, abuses, ensuring open and free access to resources, and opportunities for all in the society. This, in turn, will encourage collaboration and cooperation across different sections, ethnic groups and stakeholders to build a more cohesive, resilient, and egalitarian society.
Truly, rebuilding a society in ruins requires a different shade of understanding of the contradictions and flaws that led to its downfall and a commitment to creating a more just, equitable, and sustainable befitting society for everyone.
Embedded in the foregoing are inherent lessons for Nigeria. For instance, Nigeria amidst abundant human and natural resources has been struggling in the cesspit of arrested development over the years. However, the country can rebuild and emerge as a country to reckon with among the comity of developing nations through simple adoption and adaptation of the forgoing principles.
Hon. IBEKWE, Nnamdi Chimdi, is the lawmaker representing Bende North Constituency Abia State