Youth and Violence in Ebiraland

Abstract

Ebiraland, in Kogi Central Senatorial District of Kogi State has been seen as hotspot because of the protracted political violence which has claimed over 1000 lives and property worth several millions of Naira destroyed between 29th May, 1999 and March, 2008. At a point in 2008, some concerned citizens had called on the President, Umar Musa Yar'adua to declare the 'State of Emergency'in the area. People who had peacefully lived together for several decades, share similar religious and cultural values, and have inter-married, suddenly became enemies. Neighboring communities auJ towns have openly declared war against each other. Cousins and other close relations who belong to opposing political parties and clans have killed themselves in brutal ways. Youths in the area I hire been variously identified as playing a central role in the violence. This paper attempts to critically assess the roles been played by youths, as they are seen as easy and cheap vessels that can readily be manipulated by the self-centre politicians.