Peace and Political Stability as Prerequisite for Sustainable Development: A Reflection of the “Pax Romana”.
Dr (Mrs) Akah Josephine
School of General Studies, Humanities Unit
University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Email: Josephine.akah@unn.edu.ng
ABSTRACT
No country can develop and grow politically without peaceful co-existence among its population. It is our experience that sustainable development is tied to the advancement of lasting peace and political stability. Before peace can be said to exist anywhere, the citizens must be free from all forms of violence, be it political, economic, social or religious. We are convinced that this is the kind of peace Nigeria wants. Violence not only destroys lives, but properties are damaged. So, investing in peace, stability and accountable governance is fundamental to long term development and prosperity. Our country Nigeria is known for political instability, violence, corruption, bad governance, etc. The effect of political instability on the security of communities is evident, as societies, which are politically unstable are experiencing unrest and security charges. Man, being political by nature, seeks to live in an environment where security, stability and harmony are maintained. In (Acts 24:2), Emperor Caesar Augustus of Rome was able to restore order and peace which lasted for about two hundred years, which is referred to as the “Pax Romana” meaning Roman peace. With this peace, the empire excelled and the Roman government was able to bring about a general improvement in the living conditions of the people. So, if you and I start today to keep and maintain peace in our own little corner, then the country at large will have peace. ”For a stitch in time saves nine”. Sustainable development, if it is to take hold and flourish needs peace, stability and the firm foundation provided by human rights. Is it possible to have political stability and sustainable development without peace? The paper used critical analytic method in examining challenges of political stability and bad governance as a bane of underdevelopment
