In this article we explained ethnic politics, the roots of ethnic politics, manifestations of ethnic politics in contemporary Nigeria, causes of ethnic polarization, consequences of ethnic politics, strategies for strengthening national unity, the role of youth and civil society.
Definition
Ethnic politics refers to the mobilization of ethnic identity to gain political power, influence policy, and secure resources within a state. It shapes voting behavior, party formation, and public policy by appealing to shared ancestry, language, and culture. While it can ensure representation for minority groups, it frequently leads to conflict, polarization, and instability.
Roots of Ethnic Politics in Nigeria
(a) Colonial Legacy
British colonial administration entrenched regional divisions by governing Nigeria through indirect rule. The country was divided into regions largely aligned with major ethnic groups:
Northern Region (predominantly Hausa-Fulani)
Western Region (predominantly Yoruba)
Eastern Region (predominantly Igbo)
This administrative structure reinforced ethnic consciousness and competition.
(b) First Republic and Regionalism
Political parties in the First Republic were largely ethnic or regional in character:
Northern People’s Congress (NPC) – North
Action Group (AG) – West
National Council of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC) – East
Political rivalry between these regions contributed to instability and eventually military intervention in 1966.
(c) Civil War (1967–1970)
The Nigerian Civil War, triggered by secessionist attempts by the Eastern Region (Biafra), deepened ethnic mistrust. The war remains a powerful symbol of unresolved grievances and fears of domination.
(d) Post-Military Era
Although military rule attempted to suppress ethnic divisions, it did not eliminate them. With the return to democracy in 1999, ethnic politics re-emerged strongly, particularly during elections and debates over power rotation.
Manifestations of Ethnic Politics in Contemporary Nigeria
(a) Voting Patterns
Elections often reflect ethnic loyalties rather than policy considerations. Candidates tend to receive overwhelming support in their ethnic or regional strongholds.
Reduced cross-ethnic appeal
Heightened regional polarization
(b) Federal Character Principle
To manage ethnic diversity, Nigeria introduced the “Federal Character Principle,” which ensures representation of various ethnic groups in public appointments.
While this promotes inclusiveness, critics argue it sometimes sacrifices merit for ethnic balancing and reinforces ethnic identity as a political factor.
(c) Zoning and Power Rotation
Major political parties adopt zoning arrangements, rotating key offices (such as the presidency) among regions. This informal mechanism aims to reduce feelings of exclusion.
However, zoning:
May undermine meritocracy
Encourages identity-based claims
Deepens ethnic entitlement politics
(d) Resource Control and Revenue Allocation
Oil-producing regions have demanded greater control over resources, arguing that they suffer environmental damage without adequate benefits.
This debate reflects broader tensions over:
Fiscal federalism
Economic equity
Regional development
(e) Secessionist and Autonomy Movements
Groups in different regions have called for:
Greater regional autonomy
Restructuring of the federation
Self-determination
These agitations reflect dissatisfaction with perceived ethnic marginalization.
Causes of Ethnic Polarization:
Colonial Legacy and Artificial Boundaries
Many multi-ethnic states were created through colonial rule, where borders were drawn without regard to ethnic, cultural, or linguistic realities. This often:
Forced rival groups into one state
Divided similar ethnic groups across different countries
Created unequal power structures
Colonial administrations also practiced divide-and-rule policies, favoring certain groups over others, which laid the foundation for long-term resentment.
Political Manipulation by Elites
Political leaders often exploit ethnic differences to:
Mobilize electoral support
Gain or maintain political power
Distract citizens from governance failures
Consequences of Ethnic Politics
Political Instability and Violence: Ethnic mobilization often leads to do or die electoral battles, causing political violence, displacement, and increased criminality.
Conflict and Disunity: The creation of we vs. they narratives fuels intense inter-communal conflicts, undermining national cohesion.
Corruption and Incompetence: The pursuit of ethnic interests leads to nepotism, where public appointments are based on tribal loyalty rather than merit, resulting in poor governance and underdevelopment.
Economic Disparity: Resources are often skewed towards dominant groups, aggravating poverty in neglected regions and reducing the overall efficiency of the economy.
Endangered Democracy: It erodes national unity, fosters authoritarian tendencies among ethnic leaders, and disrupts peaceful democratic transitions.
Misallocation of Resources: It causes a waste of manpower and resources, prioritizing ethnic favors over the national interest
Strategies for Strengthening National Unity:
Inclusive Governance and Political Stability
Equitable Representation: Ensuring that all ethnic, religious, and regional groups are represented in government prevents feelings of marginalization and promotes trust.
Federal Character/Quota Systems: Implementing policies that guarantee fair access to government positions, appointments, and resources.
Conflict Resolution: Establishing formal mechanisms to address grievances, disputes, and intergroup conflicts peacefully.
Education and Awareness
Curriculum Development: Incorporating national history, civic education, and values into school curriculums to teach the importance of unity and diversity.
Unity Schools: Establishing educational institutions that bring together students from different backgrounds to promote interaction from a young age.
Civic Education: Promoting awareness of national responsibilities, constitutional rights, and the dangers of division.
Intercultural and Social Integration
National Youth Service Programs: Implementing programs that require young graduates to live and work in different regions, such as the NYSC in Nigeria, which fosters exposure to other cultures and reduces stereotypes.
Inter-marriage: Encouraging marriage between individuals from different cultural backgrounds to remove ethnic fears and foster “brotherhood”.
Cultural Exchanges: Organizing national festivals, arts, and sports events that celebrate diversity and strengthen ties.
Economic Equity and Development
Resource Distribution: Promoting equal economic opportunities across all regions to minimize disparities that can lead to feelings of neglect.
Infrastructure Development: Ensuring that development is not concentrated in one area, thereby reducing inter-regional jealousy.
Media and Communication
Responsible Reporting: Using media to highlight stories of unity rather than conflict, and countering hate speech.
National Symbols: Actively promoting and respecting national symbols—such as the flag, anthem, and national language to foster a shared identity.
Individual and Community Action
Promoting Tolerance: Cultivating an attitude of “live-and-let-live” regarding different religions, beliefs, and behaviors.
Volunteering: Encouraging citizens to participate in community services that unite people across social divides.
By combining these, a nation can foster a strong, unified identity while respecting the diversity of its citizens.
The Roles of Youth and Civil Society include:
Active Citizenship and Social Change: Youth-led organizations (YLOs) and civil society organizations (CSOs) lead grassroots activism, challenging the status quo, advancing human rights, and addressing critical issues like climate change.
Democratic Participation: They strengthen democratic values by fostering civic knowledge, encouraging political engagement, and ensuring youth representation in decision-making, such as through UN youth delegates and local councils.
Community Development and Innovation: Youth contribute fresh, innovative ideas to tackle social problems, rebuild economies, and support health initiatives.
Capacity Building: Civil society provides platforms for young people to develop leadership skills and gain experience in community-based, voluntary, and public-sector activities.
Advocacy and Accountability: CSOs are crucial in monitoring government policies and ensuring that development, health, and economic strategies are inclusive and properly funded.
Conclusion
Ethnic politics remains a powerful force in Nigeria’s political landscape. Rooted in historical, economic, and institutional factors, it continues to shape elections, governance, and public discourse. While ethnic diversity is a natural feature of Nigeria’s social fabric, its politicization has contributed to polarization and weakened national cohesion.