“Killing in the Name” by Rage Against the Machine is a powerful protest song that tackles themes of racism, police brutality, and systemic oppression. The lyrics convey a strong anti-authoritarian message, criticizing the complicity of individuals and institutions in perpetuating violence and injustice. The song addresses the systemic racism present in society, particularly within law enforcement. It highlights how individuals in positions of power can abuse their authority and how this impacts marginalized communities.
But that is not the focus here. Today, I want to explore humanity’s propensity for violence and the disturbing reasons behind our tendency to kill one another.
Since man crawled out of the cave into the wild, he’s been on a killing spree. He killed mostly for survival because in that era, it was kill or be killed. However, as man extended his stay on Earth, he fine-tuned his killing skills and began to kill for some other reasons: for territory, sport and entertainment, love, and God.
Yes, man has gone to war with fellow man, and killed his fellow man, in the name of love, country, religion, and in the name of God.
Nigeria has witnessed widespread violence and bloodshed across various regions over the past two decades. Recently, the brutality seems to have escalated, with attacks intensifying in areas such as Uromi, Benue, Plateau, Delta, and the Eastern states. The frequency and barbarity of these killings have reached alarming levels, leaving deep scars on communities
One is now compelled to hopelessly ask, in the name of what or in the name of whom these killings are being carried out?
How much blood is required to satiate this demon?
In the past two decades, Nigeria has increasingly resembled a nation at war with itself. The headlines have become a grim montage of death and destruction. From the Middle Belt to the Niger Delta, from the arid North to the lush East, the soil is soaked with blood, and the air crackles with fear.
Benue, Plateau, Uromi, Delta, and parts of the Southeast have turned into killing fields. Communities are razed. Farmers are slaughtered. Children are orphaned. Women are raped. Entire villages vanish overnight—erased by faceless gunmen, roving militias, or uniformed oppressors. And with each new massacre, the same question hangs heavier in the air. Ethnic supremacy? Religious righteousness? Territorial conquest? Political vendettas? Or sheer madness?
No one seems to know anymore. Or perhaps, worse, no one wants to answer.
Benue State, once nicknamed the “Food Basket of the Nation,” has become synonymous with bloodshed. What began as clashes between farmers and herders has now morphed into systemic annihilation. Thousands have died. Many more have been displaced. Yet justice remains elusive.
In Plateau State, the narrative is disturbingly similar. What was once a peaceful melting pot of cultures and faiths now simmers with ethnic tension and revenge killings. Massacres erupt without warning. Churches and mosques alike have been reduced to ash.
In Delta and Uromi, ritual killings, kidnappings, and communal clashes rage on with ferocity. The Eastern states face another dimension of violence—political agitation, state-sponsored crackdowns, and criminal infiltrations all collide to produce a perfect storm of chaos.
And through it all, the average Nigerian wonders: Who is safe? Who is next?
State of Complicity
In Killing in the Name, Rage Against the Machine blasts those “who work forces, and burn crosses”—a metaphor for law enforcement agents who perpetuate the very injustices they’re meant to stop.
Nigeria’s own security agencies haven’t fared much better. From the brutalities of SARS to military massacres in Zaria, Odi, and Lekki, the line between protector and predator has blurred dangerously.
The absence of accountability emboldens killers. The silence of leadership enables violence. The impotence of justice deepens despair.
And so, the killings go on—sometimes in daylight, sometimes on live television, sometimes in places where there are no cameras left to capture horror.
The human cost of this violence is immense. Thousands of lives have been lost, and countless more have been displaced. Communities have been torn apart, and the psychological trauma of living in a state of constant fear and insecurity is profound. The violence has also had a devastating impact on the economy, with infrastructure destroyed and economic activity disrupted.
The Plight of Displaced Persons
The displaced persons are among the most vulnerable victims of this violence. Many have been forced to flee their homes, leaving behind everything they own. They often end up in overcrowded refugee camps, where conditions are dire and basic needs are scarce. The psychological and physical toll of displacement is immense, and the road to recovery is long and uncertain.
The Psychological Impact
The psychological impact of living in a state of constant fear and insecurity is profound. Many people suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The violence has also eroded trust within communities, making it difficult for people to come together and work towards a peaceful resolution.
The Economic Consequences
The economic consequences of the violence are also severe. Infrastructure has been destroyed, and economic activity has been disrupted. This has led to job losses, reduced income, and increased poverty. The long-term economic impact of the violence will be felt for generations to come.
The Search for Solutions
Finding solutions to this complex and entrenched problem is a daunting task. However, it is essential to address the root causes of the violence and work towards building a more just and equitable society.
Addressing Ethnic and Religious Tensions
Addressing ethnic and religious tensions is a crucial first step. This involves promoting interfaith dialogue, fostering understanding and respect between different ethnic and religious groups, and ensuring that all citizens feel valued and included.
Reducing Economic Disparities
Reducing economic disparities is another key area of focus. This involves investing in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in the affected regions, and ensuring that all citizens have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Combating Political Corruption
Combating political corruption is also essential. This involves strengthening institutions, promoting transparency and accountability, and ensuring that those who abuse their power are held to account.
Promoting Peace and Reconciliation
Promoting peace and reconciliation is a long-term process that requires the involvement of all sectors of society. This involves fostering a culture of peace, promoting forgiveness and healing, and working towards building a more just and equitable society.
The violence in Nigeria is a complex and entrenched problem that requires a multifaceted approach to address. It is essential to address the root causes of the violence and work towards building a more just and equitable society. This involves promoting interfaith dialogue, reducing economic disparities, combating political corruption, and fostering a culture of peace and reconciliation.Photo credit