Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Mike Ozekhome, has warned that Nigeria is exhibiting clear signs of a failed state, citing the growing control of territories by non-state actors who now exercise sovereign functions in parts of the country.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Ozekhome expressed concern that insurgents and bandits in states like Niger and Borno have not only occupied large portions of land but also hoist flags, collect taxes, and issue identity cards to residents — powers ordinarily reserved for a legitimate government.
“Nigeria is literally crumbling. We must be very careful to hold this country together. When you see signs like these, they are signs of a failed or a failing nation,” he said.
The constitutional lawyer stressed that one of the most telling indicators of state failure is when non-state actors acquire authority and military power equal to, or even stronger than, that of the government elected by the people.
He warned that Nigeria is in “a very strong, very dirty situation,” and called for urgent national dialogue to avert total collapse.
“One of the symptoms of a failed nation is when non-state actors possess equal or more potent power than the sovereign government that is voted into power by the people. Nigerians need to sit down to have a constitutional conference where all these things will be discussed,” he added.
Ozekhome’s remarks come amid growing insecurity, economic hardship, and political instability that analysts say are fueling doubts about the country’s cohesion and long-term stability.
