According to Peter Obi, 2023 Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP): “Yesterday, we solemnly observed the International Day of Remembrance for the victims of the Rwandan genocide. The occasion invites us to pause and honour the memory of the 800,000 Rwandans – Tutsis and moderate Hutus – who perished in the span of 100 days,
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“from April 7th to July 4th, 1994. This period stands as a stark reminder of humanity’s capacity for unspeakable cruelty, evil and devastation, as extremist forces fueled by hate sought to cleanse their society along ethnic lines.
“In Rwanda, as in many parts of Africa and the world, divisions along ethnic, religious, or cultural lines have too often resulted in tragedy and suffering. Yet, amidst this darkness, there is also a beacon of hope: the resilience of the human spirit and
“the power of love to overcome hatred and division. It is a poignant truth that in Rwanda, the distinctions between Tutsis and Hutus were often arbitrary, discernible only by the labels on their identification cards.
“Despite speaking the same language, sharing the same customs, and even intermarrying, they were torn apart by forces of intolerance, hate and animosity. But let us not allow the shadows of the past to dim the light of our shared humanity.
“As we reflect on the horrors of the Rwandan genocide, let us also look inwards and examine the state of our own societies, including Nigeria and the broader African continent.
“Let us recognize the diversity that enriches our communities and embrace the notion that unity in diversity is not merely a slogan, but a guiding principle for progress and peace.
“In Nigeria, a nation blessed with a kaleidoscope of cultures, languages, and traditions, there exists a profound opportunity to build bridges that transcend ethnic and religious divides.
“Let us heed the lessons of history and commit ourselves to fostering a society where every individual is valued and respected, regardless of their background. Ultimately, the choice between building barriers or bridges lies within each of us.
“Let us choose love over hate, compassion over indifference, and solidarity over division. Together, let us strive to create a future where the scars of the past serve as a reminder of our shared humanity, and where the bonds of unity triumph over the forces of division.
“A great nation must first be a pool of compassion, fellow feeling and unity of purpose.”
Yesterday, we solemnly observed the International Day of Remembrance for the victims of the Rwandan genocide. The occasion invites us to pause and honour the memory of the 800,000 Rwandans – Tutsis and moderate Hutus – who perished in the span of 100 days,
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) April 8, 2024
