In the midst of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests, Plateau State found itself teetering on the brink of a complex emergency. A complex emergency, by definition, is a humanitarian crisis characterized by a combination of factors such as conflict, natural disasters, and political instability, leading to a large-scale disruption of societies and economies. In this case, the peaceful protests were hijacked by miscreants, leading to looting and destruction of properties, prompting the state government to impose a 24-hour curfew to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.
The swift response by the state government was commendable, as it navigated the delicate balance between ensuring the safety of citizens and preventing the situation from escalating into a full-blown complex emergency. However, as the curfew dragged on, the risk of another complex emergency emerged – hunger. With food stocks depleting, the state governor wisely reviewed the situation, gradually lifting the curfew to allow citizens to access essential supplies.
This balancing act is a testament to governance with a human face. In complex emergencies, leaders must make difficult decisions to mitigate the impact on civilians. The Plateau State government’s response demonstrates an understanding of this nuance, prioritizing both security and the welfare of citizens.
For those who are interested in understanding terms used in conflict management, The best term to describe the balancing act in the complex emergency above is “Humanitarian Governance.” This term captures the government’s efforts to balance security concerns with humanitarian needs, prioritizing the welfare and dignity of citizens while maintaining order and stability.
Other terms that could be used to describe this balancing act include:
1. “Responsive Governance”
2. “Crisis Management with a Human Face”
3. “Balanced Response”
4. “Human-Centered Crisis Management”
5. “Governance with Empathy”
However, “Humanitarian Governance” best encapsulates the government’s commitment to prioritizing humanitarian needs while addressing security concerns, making it the most fitting term to describe the balancing act in this complex emergency.
As we reflect on this situation, it is clear that complex emergencies require a multifaceted approach, addressing not only the immediate security concerns but also the long-term humanitarian needs of affected populations.
The Plateau State government’s actions serve as a model for effective governance in times of crisis, ensuring that the rights and dignity of citizens are protected while maintaining order and stability.
Written By: Associate Professor Elias Nankap Lamle, Centre for conflict Management and Peace studies.
University of Jos.
