RETHINKING SEPARATIST AGITATIONS AND VIOLENT CONFLICTS IN SOUTH-EAST NIGERIA THROUGH THE LENS OF MARXIST THEORY
Keywords:
Separatist Agitations, Class Struggle, Marxist Theory, Political Exclusion, Structural InequalityAbstract
Separatist agitations in Nigeria particularly in the South-East—reflect deep-seated grievances tied to political exclusion, economic marginalization, and cultural misrecognition. This study engaged Marxist theory as its conceptual lens, highlighting how class struggle, elite domination, and structural inequality underpin these movements. Through a qualitative desk-based review of scholarly literature, policy reports, and documented case studies, the research examined the socio-economic and historical drivers of separatist unrest in Nigeria. The findings suggested that widespread discontent, particularly among the economically and politically disenfranchised, is intensified by the state's repressive responses and uneven development practices. Current conflict management strategies remain largely ineffective due to their neglect of these foundational issues. By foregrounding Marxist insights—especially around economic redistribution, inclusive governance, and class solidarity—this study argues for a more structural and justice-oriented approach to peacebuilding. It concluded that rethinking Nigeria’s separatist agitations through this lens offers practical direction for equitable national integration and sustainable stability.References
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