By Adewale Adegoroye
Nigeria is a country that is deeply divided along ethnic and religious lines; these divisions have given rise to several conflicts over the years that have had a significant impact on both the security and socio-economic development of the nation. The emergence of extremist groups is one of the primary ways in which religion and tribalism have disrupted the country. For instance, Boko Haram, an Islamist extremist group, carried out a series of attacks across the country, targeting both government and civilians.
In recent years, a few movements, such as the Biafra and Yoruba Nation movements, have attempted to establish their own independent nations within Nigeria. These movements have been fuelled by a sense of marginalisation and dissatisfaction with the way the country is currently being run, and they have had a significant impact on the stability and unity of the nation. The Nigerian government has repeatedly detained some of the leaders and members of these movements in ways that some have questioned as lacking due process.
Responding harshly to the movements’ actions has resulted in the deaths and incarceration of some of their members, as well as the eviction of thousands of innocent people from their communities. As a result, there has been much turmoil and violence in the affected areas, which has had a detrimental impact on both security and economic growth.
Extremist groups, such as the Fulani herdsmen, who appear to have targeted specific ethnic and religious communities in recent years, have exacerbated the country’s already serious ethnic and religious tensions. This has created an atmosphere of distrust and terror that has made it challenging for many communities to collaborate and work together in the interest of economic progress.
The politicians’ use of ethnic and religious identities and manipulation of the ethnic minorities for their personal advantage is another way that religion and tribalism has affected Nigeria. This has caused numerous acrimonious political campaigns and has made it more difficult for the government to run the country and put policies in place that would encourage economic growth.
It is crucial to remember that these issue of ethnic and religious differences will probably play a big part in the future election, particularly the general election of 2023. These concerns run the risk of further dividing the nation and escalating hostilities between various groups. Additionally, it is also possible that politicians may seek to exploit these divisions for their own gain, which could lead to further unrest and instability.
Additionally, Nigeria has a high level of corruption, which has impeded economic growth. A lack of accountability and transparency in government has encouraged the few majorities to use the tribes and religion as a mechanism to distribute resources, jobs, and contracts among themselves.
In conclusion, the differences brought on by these factors have led to manipulated identities that have hindered the country’s ability to develop. To overcome these obstacles, every Nigerian must seek to promote more peace and harmony among the diverse religious and ethnic groups, address the core reasons for marginalisation and dissatisfaction, and combat corruption, another major problem in Nigeria. This can be accomplished by improving governance, educating people, creating awareness, encouraging collaboration, and understanding cultural diversities in the nation.
Prince Adewale Adegoroye