British Colonial Rule Planted Tribalism and Religious Bigotry in Nigeria — Bode George

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has accused the British colonial administration of sowing the seeds of tribalism and religious bigotry that continue to undermine Nigeria’s unity and development decades after independence.

Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Thursday, George said these two divisive forces remain at the heart of Nigeria’s political and social challenges, preventing the nation from realising its full potential.

“Two evils were planted by the British in this country — tribalism and religious bigotry,” he stated. “Whatever we are doing in this country, whenever there’s a problem, you can trace it back to either tribalism or religious bigotry.”

The PDP leader emphasised that Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than division, noting that interfaith and interethnic coexistence has always been part of the nation’s heritage, particularly in the western region.

“Look at this Christian–Muslim divide. In the Western area, you can hardly find a home that doesn’t have Christians, Muslims, and traditionalists,” he explained. “In my own family, my elder sister was a Muslim until she passed on. I sponsored her to Hajj, supported her Quranic education, and even contributed to building a mosque near her home. She was a full-fledged Muslim.”

George described Nigeria’s recurring religious crises as “an existential imbecility,” arguing that they have no connection to effective governance or national progress.

His comments came amid renewed tensions following reports of alleged Christian persecution in northern Nigeria and recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who warned that America could take military action if the Nigerian government failed to stop the alleged killings.

Calling for unity and tolerance, George urged Nigerians to reject divisive rhetoric and prioritise nation-building.

“All these things we are talking about — religion and tribe — have no bearing on the management of this country,” he said. “What we need is fairness, justice, and a collective commitment to move Nigeria forward.”

Opinion Nigeria News