JUSTICE, INCLUSION AND SHARED RESPONSIBILITIES IN STATE-BORDER COMMUNITIES RELATIONS FOR NATIONAL PEACE, SECURITY AND ECONOMY: A PHILOSOPHICAL EVALUATION

Abstract

Amongst the problems that have in-turn becomes perennial discourse in the contemporary era is that of security and social justice in Nigeria. What has led to the clamour and quest for a fair, equitable and just society by individuals of the same creed, heritage and cultural orientation in border community regions are: (1) they have been marginalized and underdeveloped both politically and economically (2) the hands of fellowship and inclusion have been totally not catered for, if not overlooked (3) the dividends of democracy have not been so much enjoyed, benefitted and not too budgeted for in the national budget. These, amongst several other issues experienced by the residents of border communities have geared them towards advocating for a just and better society that is built on inclusion, justice, equity, fairness and a shared responsibility. Drawing on classical and contemporary political thought of John Rawlsconcept of justice, the paper explores the intertwined roles of the state (nation) and border communities cum residents in fostering national peace, security and justice through a philosophical-historical lens. Through a philosophical and a historical approach, the paper argues and submits that there is a need to redefine the collaborative roles of the state and border residents in the pursuit of justice, peace, and security. This can only be achieved through a reciprocal approach fostering the extension of hands of fellowship, inclusion and justice to the residents of the border communities. It is worth knowing that the actions and reactions of the border communities and residents play pivotal roles in shaping the security architecture, economy and peace of the nation.