Correct Option: C. Failure to impose sanctions on South Africa
Detailed Explanation:
- Context of the Withdrawal:
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In July 1986, Nigeria withdrew from the Edinburgh Commonwealth Games as a form of protest. This decision was rooted in Nigeria's strong opposition to apartheid in South Africa and the perceived inaction of the international community, particularly the British government, in addressing this issue.
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Understanding Apartheid:
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Apartheid was a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination in South Africa that lasted from 1948 until the early 1990s. The international community, including many Commonwealth nations, was increasingly calling for sanctions against South Africa to pressure the government to end apartheid.
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Nigeria's Position:
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Nigeria, under the leadership of then-President Muhammadu Buhari, was a vocal advocate for the end of apartheid. The country had taken a strong stance against the South African regime and was actively involved in supporting liberation movements across Africa.
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British Inaction:
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At the time, Nigeria was frustrated with the British government's reluctance to impose strict sanctions on South Africa. While some countries had begun to take action, the UK was seen as lagging behind, which angered many African nations, including Nigeria.
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The Protest:
- By withdrawing from the Commonwealth Games, Nigeria aimed to draw attention to the issue of apartheid and to express its discontent with the British government's failure to take a firmer stance against the South African regime. This act was symbolic, showcasing Nigeria's commitment to the anti-apartheid cause and its disappointment with the Commonwealth's perceived inaction.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- A. Support for UNITA rebels in Angola:
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While Nigeria had concerns about the civil war in Angola and the role of UNITA (National Union for the Total Independence of Angola), this was not the primary reason for Nigeria's withdrawal from the Commonwealth Games. The focus of the protest was specifically on apartheid and the British government's policies regarding South Africa.
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B. Supply of arms to Rhodesia:
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Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) was another contentious issue, particularly regarding its white-minority rule. However, Nigeria's withdrawal was not directly linked to British arms supplies to Rhodesia. The apartheid situation in South Africa was a more pressing concern for Nigeria at that time.
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D. Negative utterances on Nigeria:
- While negative comments or criticisms from British officials could have contributed to tensions, they were not the main catalyst for Nigeria's withdrawal from the Commonwealth Games. The protest was primarily focused on the broader issue of apartheid and the lack of action against it.
Revision Summary:
- Nigeria withdrew from the 1986 Commonwealth Games to protest British inaction on apartheid in South Africa.
- The withdrawal highlighted Nigeria's commitment to ending apartheid and its disappointment with the Commonwealth's response.
- Other options (A, B, D) were not the main reasons for the withdrawal, as they focused on different issues not directly related to the protest.
- Understanding the historical context of apartheid is crucial for grasping the significance of Nigeria's actions during this period.