society
The Real Enemy of Nigeria: Tribal Politics, Ethnic Hatred and the Failure to Unite
The Real Enemy of Nigeria: Tribal Politics, Ethnic Hatred and the Failure to Unite
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | SaharaWeeklyNG.com
Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads. More than six decades after independence, the country remains shackled (not by external forces or faulty governance alone) but by a deeply entrenched, corrosive enemy within: tribal politics, ethnic hatred and the persistent failure to forge genuine unity. This is the real disease crippling Nigeria’s potential.
For decades, political discourse has revolved around the presidency, government policies and economic management. Yet, these are mere symptoms not the root cause of Nigeria’s malaise. The real disease is a collective mindset rooted in ethnic insecurity and sabotage, the toxic belief that “if it’s not my tribe, it can’t be trusted.” Until this insidious mentality is confronted head-on and eradicated, no amount of political restructuring, constitutional amendments or economic reforms will salvage the Nigerian project.
The Peril of Tribal Politics
Tribalism in Nigeria is not merely an identity marker; it is a weapon wielded to divide, marginalize and manipulate. It poisons the political landscape, turns governance into a zero-sum game and sows seeds of mistrust among Nigerians. As political scientist Prof. Akin Oyebode of the University of Ibadan once remarked, “Nigeria’s greatest threat is the refusal of its people to see each other as compatriots rather than competitors.”
The statistics paint a grim picture. According to the 2022 Afrobarometer survey, over 70% of Nigerians identify strongly with their ethnic group rather than the nation as a whole. This fragmentation undermines national cohesion and fuels competition for resources, appointments and political influence along ethnic lines. Instead of uniting for the common good, Nigerians often retreat into parochial enclaves, fostering resentments that ignite violence and conflict.
The tragic consequences are evident in the repeated cycles of communal clashes, such as the persistent violence in the Middle Belt and the ethno-religious tensions in the North-East. The Boko Haram insurgency and farmer-herder conflicts are often exacerbated by ethnic and religious fault lines, reflecting the deep societal fractures.
Ethnic Hatred: The Poison That Destroys
Ethnic hatred fuels a dangerous paranoia, convincing groups that their survival depends on dominating others. This paranoia manifests in exclusionary politics and discriminatory practices, as communities jockey for power and control. The political elite exploit these fears for electoral gain, often by stoking ethnic antagonism.
Dr. Chido Onumah, a respected Nigerian journalist and analyst, emphasizes that “ethnic hatred is the cancer eating away at the soul of Nigeria. It creates suspicion where there should be trust and erects barriers where bridges are needed.”
This has led to the rise of separatist agitations such as Oduduwa Republic in the Southwest, Biafra in the Southeast, Niger Delta militancy and calls for Arewa autonomy in the North. While the grievances behind these movements are often legitimate (ranging from political marginalization to economic neglect) the common denominator remains ethnic distrust and the failure to see Nigerians beyond tribal affiliations.
Why Unity Is Nigeria’s Only Way Forward
Nigeria’s diversity is its greatest strength if harnessed correctly. The vast cultural, linguistic and religious mosaic offers unparalleled opportunities for innovation, resilience and global influence. But unity is not just an idealistic slogan; it is a practical necessity for national survival.
Professor Claude Ake, the late Nigerian political economist, famously stated, “Nigeria is a complex society, but without unity, complexity becomes chaos.” He understood that the country’s multiplicity could only flourish in an environment where ethnic boundaries were transcended by a shared national identity.
The failure to build such unity has led to a “balkanization” of the Nigerian psyche. As ethnic mistrust deepens, Nigerians are essentially creating smaller “countries” within Nigeria (Oduduwa, Biafra, Niger Delta, Arewa) each pursuing its agenda at the expense of the whole. This fracturing weakens the country, making governance difficult and economic progress elusive.
Structural Reforms Are Insufficient Without Mindset Change
Since the return to civilian rule in 1999, Nigeria has undergone various attempts at restructuring: constitutional reviews, state creation, power devolution and federal character principles aimed at ethnic balance in appointments. Yet, these structural changes have failed to eradicate ethnic politics.
Why? Because these reforms address symptoms but not the disease. Restructuring cannot heal minds poisoned by tribal suspicion and hatred. No constitution or law can force people to abandon their fears and prejudices.
As Professor Attahiru Jega, former chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), observes: “You cannot legislate unity into existence; it must grow from the people’s hearts.”
The solution lies in deliberate, sustained efforts to build national consciousness. Education systems must promote Nigerian history and values that emphasize unity in diversity. Civic education must confront ethnic stereotypes and promote mutual respect. Political leaders must champion national interest over tribal loyalties.
Voices from Within: Calls for Unity and Healing
Across Nigeria, thought leaders and citizens alike have called for an end to ethnic divisions.
Bishop Matthew Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, has repeatedly warned: “Nigeria is at war with itself, but the real war is in the minds of its people. Until we kill the demon of ethnic hatred, peace will remain elusive.”
Similarly, Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka noted: “Tribalism is the enemy of progress in Nigeria. The nation’s destiny depends on the willingness of its people to rise above ethnic particularism.”
President Muhammadu Buhari, despite controversies, acknowledged this in 2021 when he said, “We must learn to see ourselves as Nigerians first and members of ethnic groups second.”
Yet, words alone are insufficient. Nigerians must act by rejecting tribal politics in elections, promoting inclusivity in governance and cultivating inter-ethnic cooperation in everyday life.
The Way Forward: Healing the Nigerian Mind
True progress demands confronting uncomfortable truths about identity and loyalty. It requires honest self-reflection and collective commitment to change.
Educational Reform: Curriculum must emphasize national heroes, history and values that unite rather than divide. Early education should teach children to appreciate Nigeria’s diversity as an asset.
Political Accountability: Politicians must be held accountable for stoking ethnic tensions. Electoral reforms should discourage ethnic vote-banking and promote issue-based politics.
Media Responsibility: Media houses and social platforms must combat hate speech and misinformation that inflame ethnic divisions.
Community Engagement: Grassroots initiatives that promote dialogue and cooperation among ethnic groups should be supported and scaled up.
Inclusive Economic Development: Addressing economic inequalities that fuel ethnic resentment is critical. Development programs must be fairly distributed and designed to bridge ethnic divides.
Final Thoughts
Nigeria’s greatest enemy is not geography, resources or governance alone. It is the fractured mindset of its people and the tribal politics, ethnic hatred and failure to unite. Until Nigerians confront and heal this mental disease, the nation will continue to fracture into smaller entities, each echoing the same broken mentality.
The challenge before Nigeria is clear: to build a new Nigerian identity that transcends tribe, religion and region; to forge unity from diversity; and to place the nation’s interests above ethnic loyalties. This is the only path toward peace, progress and a truly prosperous Nigeria.
As George Omagbemi Sylvester writes, “We can rebuild our country’s institutions, but unless we rebuild the Nigerian mind, we will be trapped in an endless cycle of division and decay. The real battle for Nigeria is fought in the hearts and minds of its people.”
society
FROM GLOBAL IMPACT TO NATIONAL SERVICE: DR. PRINCESS CHETACHI NWOGA-NWOGA-ECTON ACCEPTS CALL TO SERVE OWERRI ZONE
FROM GLOBAL IMPACT TO NATIONAL SERVICE: DR. PRINCESS CHETACHI NWOGA-NWOGA-ECTON ACCEPTS CALL TO SERVE OWERRI ZONE
In a defining moment that has electrified the political landscape of Imo State, globally acclaimed philanthropist, Dr. Princess Chetachi Nwoga-Ecton, has officially accepted the clarion call of Owerri Zone youths to contest for the Senate seat in the forthcoming general elections.
Speaking from the United States, where she continues to advance her humanitarian engagements, Dr. Nwoga-Ecton made her position known in a heartfelt and resolute address that has since resonated across communities at home and in the diaspora.
A distinguished recipient of the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award under the administration of Joe Biden, Dr. Nwoga-Ecton has built a legacy rooted in compassion, service, and global impact.
As the Founder of the When In Need Foundation, she has transformed countless lives through initiatives focused on empowerment, healthcare, education, and social welfare.
Beyond her widely recognized humanitarian strides, she is also a passionate and consistent advocate of agriculture. For many years, Dr. Nwoga-Ecton has championed farming as a tool for economic growth and food security, personally supporting farmers across several local governments in Imo State.
Through her initiatives, she has distributed seedlings to farmers, helping to boost local agricultural productivity and encourage sustainable livelihoods.
Her impact is equally profound among widows and women, whom she has continually supported through financial assistance and structured skills acquisition programs.
These empowerment efforts have enabled countless women to regain economic independence, rebuild their lives, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Responding to the persistent and passionate agitation by Owerri Zone youths, she declared:
“After deep reflection, consultations, and prayers, I have decided to humbly accept the call of our vibrant and courageous youths to serve.
This is not a personal ambition, but a collective mission — a responsibility to represent, to uplift, and to deliver purposeful leadership to our people.”
Her acceptance has been met with overwhelming jubilation, especially among young people who have long advocated for credible, people-oriented representation.
For many, her decision signals the dawn of a new era — one anchored on integrity, inclusiveness, and visionary leadership.
Dr. Nwoga-Ecton emphasized that her transition from global humanitarian service to active political participation is a natural extension of her lifelong commitment to humanity:
“Service knows no boundaries.
Whether on the global stage or within our communities, the goal remains the same — to create opportunities, restore hope, and build a future that works for everyone.
Owerri Zone deserves a strong, compassionate voice at the Senate, and I am ready to answer that call.”
Political analysts have described her entry into the race as a game-changer, citing her international exposure, proven track record, and deep grassroots connection as key strengths that set her apart.
For the youths of Owerri Zone, their voices have not only been heard — they have been answered.
And in Dr. Princess Chetachi Nwoga-Ecton, they see not just a candidate, but a symbol of hope, a vessel of change, and a leader ready to chart a new course for the future.
Dr. Chris Oko Odey
Abuja.
The award she received from the US is the presidential lifetime achievement award not award of excellence please take note before publishing
STILL ON DELE MOMODU by Chief Femi Fani-Kayode
I saw Dele Momodu’s response to my article on him & was amused.
I tried to be polite & restrained in that write up & I didn’t realise that it would hurt him so deeply. Yet for that I offer no apology.
I said he sounded tired & worne in his interview with Seun Okinbaloye but from his response today it is clear that he is now completely unhinged.
He has blown his gasket & his reaction is rooted more in emotion than it is in logic.
Frankly I feel sorry for him because it is clear that he is fighting a lost cause, he is badly diminished & he is now a shadow of his former self.
For Bobby Dee the glory days are certainly over & I suspect that by 2027 when Tinubu emerges victorious he will crawl back into the hole that he originally came from.
Perhaps at that time he will go back to taking pictures of former Governor Nyesom Wike, the Adeleke’s & other prominent figures for a living & shining their shoes.
Playing clips of things that I said about President Tinubu 11 years ago when I was in the then opposition & when I led the media section of President Jonathan’s presidential campaign organisation will not help him to get rid of the stench of faeces that he has immersed himself in today & neither does it derogate from the fact that he was speaking rubbish when he said Tinubu is a dictator.
Unlike others I will never deny what I have said in the past about Tinubu or anyone else but at least I had the decency & courage to admit that I was wrong & ever since I left the then opposition and joined the APC in 2021 I have not looked back.
Not only did I fight for Tinubu in 2023 during the presidential campaign but I have remained loyal & committed to him & his cause since then and I have no apology for that either.
Unlike Dele I did not benefit from him for close to 40 years, eat from his plate, collect handouts from him, stay in his house, claim to be his brother and yet refuse to support him in achieving his dream of becoming President.
Bobby Dee’s nose is so far up the posterior of those he is now slaving for that he forgot to mention the fact that every single one of them, at some point or the other in their sorry lives & career, have not only changed political parties several times over but have also opposed Tinubu bitterly & even more vehemently than I ever did only to go back & later re-align with him.
I do not begrudge them or blame them for that because that is the nature of politics all over the world.
There are no permanent friends or enemies but only permanent interests and in my view it is in the interest of Nigeria that Tinubu continues the reforms that he started in 2023 after he was elected President.
It is also my view that Nigeria must never fall into the hands of the conglomeration of court jesters, sorry clowns & motely crew of insufferable jokers that Dele is now speaking, slaving & fronting for.
I will still be gentle with my old friend because I have a soft spot for him but if he ever crosses the line with me again I will stop being so restrained.
He does not have the stomach for a real fight because he is vain and thin-skinned. He also has an over- inflated opinion of himself and a huge ego.
These are weaknesses in this game and not strengths and as we get closer to the presidential campaign he will learn this the hard way.
Meanwhile he should stay in his lane otherwise I will give him plenty to write about.
For him to compare Tinubu to Abacha was wrong and if he was anything like the dictator that Dele claims he is both Dele and those he speaks for today would either be dead or in jail.
He should count himself lucky that our President is a democrat and not a monster.
Dele’s lies, duplicity & shameless perfidy have finally been exposed & are as obvious & glaring as his very large stomach.
I advise him to do some press ups & go jogging because unlike before I will no longer remain silent as he & his friends throw mud at our President.
Game on!
(FFK)
society
OWUTU FM 2026 Ramadan Lecture: Sheikh Jamiu Asanbe Urges Muslims to Avoid Showboating in Worship
OWUTU FM 2026 Ramadan Lecture: Sheikh Jamiu Asanbe Urges Muslims to Avoid Showboating in Worship.
The Chief Imam of Agelete Central Mosque, Ikoyi Lagos, Alhaji Jamiu Asanbe, has urged Muslims to remain sincere in their acts of worship and avoid the temptation of seeking public praise for good deeds.
The respected Islamic scholar gave this admonition while delivering a lecture at the OWUTU FM 2026 Ramadan Lecture, held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, in Lagos.
Speaking on the importance of sincerity in Islam, Sheikh Asanbe cautioned Muslim faithful against what he described as “showboating” — the practice of performing charitable acts or religious duties merely to gain recognition or admiration from others.
According to him, every act of worship in Islam must be done purely for the sake of Almighty Allah.
He explained that while acts such as prayer, fasting, and charity are fundamental pillars of faith, their true value lies in the intention behind them.
The cleric therefore encouraged Muslims to remain genuine in their devotion and avoid mixing their faith with the desire for worldly praise or attention.
Sheikh Asanbe also reminded the faithful that the holy month of Ramadan presents a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal. He urged believers to increase acts of generosity, particularly by supporting the needy, vulnerable members of society, and orphans.
Earlier in her remarks, the Convener of the Ramadan Lecture and CEO of OWUTU FM, Hajia Adejoke Muyibat Balogun, encouraged attendees to use the sacred month as a time for reflection, self-improvement, and community development.
She described the lecture theme as carefully selected to promote spirituality, strengthen faith, and encourage peaceful coexistence within the community.
Balogun expressed appreciation to the numerous guests and supporters who attended the event, noting that their presence reflected the strong bond within the community.
She further reaffirmed OWUTU FM’s commitment to sustaining the annual Ramadan Lecture, praying for Allah’s continued guidance and mercy in the years ahead.
The 2026 edition of the Ramadan Lecture attracted dignitaries and representatives from various organisations including Uzamot Communications, Okutex Fabrics, and the Yeye Asiwaju of Ojota Kingdom.
The event also featured engaging activities such as a quiz competition, where winners were presented with gifts. In the spirit of Ramadan, iftar meals were shared with guests, reinforcing the values of unity, generosity, and compassion that define the holy month.
Through initiatives like this, OWUTU FM continues to play a vital role in promoting faith-based dialogue, community engagement, and social harmony.
-
society6 months agoReligion: Africa’s Oldest Weapon of Enslavement and the Forgotten Truth
-
news3 months agoWHO REALLY OWNS MONIEPOINT? The $290 Million Deal That Sold Nigeria’s Top Fintech to Foreign Interests
-
society6 months ago“You Are Never Without Help” – Pastor Gebhardt Berndt Inspires Hope Through Empower Church (Video)
-
society7 months agoWho is Chief Kestin Pondi? Niger Delta’s “People’s Chief” Winning Hearts With Hundreds of Millions in Generosity