Prof. Toyin Falola warns that ethnic and religious politics undermine Nigeria’s unity and democratic development. During a recent lecture, he criticized these divisions for eroding governance and democratic institutions, emphasizing the need for a shift towards competence-based leadership and national cohesion over identity politics.
Historian Prof. Toyin Falola highlighted the detrimental impact of ethnic and religious politics in Nigeria during the Prof. Ayo Olukotun Memorial Lecture at Lead City University. He asserted that these divisions threaten national unity and hinder democratic progress. Falola criticized the overwhelming influence of sectarian affiliations that overshadow merit-based governance, leading to instability and inefficiency in political institutions.
He pointed out that the divisive nature of Nigeria’s 2019 presidential election exemplifies how tribal and religious sentiments dictate political choices, despite shared backgrounds among candidates. Falola noted that rather than unifying the electorate, such contests expose existing fears and mistrust between various ethnic and religious groups.
Falola also condemned the impact of ethnic and religious considerations on political appointments, stating these considerations undermine governance and promote mediocrity. He emphasized the erosion of democratic foundations, where public office becomes a source of sectional gain instead of national service.
Addressing the role of religion in politics, Falola described how religion has been co-opted by political elites as a tool for personal gain rather than as a force for accountability and good governance. He warned that as long as corruption remains rampant, religious and ethnic factions will impede Nigeria’s quest for true unity.
Moreover, Falola explained that politicians exploit such sentiments to divert attention from crucial issues like economic stability and security. He advocated for a shift from ethnic loyalty to a focus on pressing national interests, urging for a national reorientation towards competence and issue-based leadership.
The lecture emphasized the importance of strengthening national institutions to shield democracy from ethnic and religious manipulation, calling for a culture where civic engagement transcends tribal and religious voting patterns. Prof. Falola concluded by advocating for a governance framework founded on unity, integrity, and national progress, stressing that Nigeria cannot advance until it prioritizes national interests over sectional loyalty.
Prof. Toyin Falola’s address underscores the pressing issues of ethnic and religious politics as barriers to Nigeria’s unity and democratic growth. He calls for a transformative approach to governance that emphasizes competence and national interests over divisive sectarianism. Strengthening national institutions and fostering a culture of informed civic engagement are essential for Nigeria to overcome its internal divisions and achieve collective progress.
Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com
