Ending Tribalism In Nigeria -By Salim Yakubu Akko

The cattle bearing the weight of the cart, conveying Nigeria to its development, are presently weary. The burden has become heavier due to the combined forces of ethnic intolerance and tribalism.

Tribalism has contributed extensively to the decline in Nigeria’s growth. We have been unable to keep the much needed peace and harmony, which would transport us to the bright future we seek. Since independence, we have been riding with failure and the blame is placed solely on governance. The bitter truth however, is that we have ourselves to blame, for we’ve refused to amalgamate our energies to produce betterment in this country. After all, China, being the most populated country in the world, was able to unite diversity and materialize into one of the largest economies in the world.

The escalating rate of barbaric acts across the country is also owing to tribalism. Nepotism has made criminal tendencies become rampant, for if a persons tribesmen hold the reins at high government positions, there is a chance that special waiver would be granted, if he does commit felony. Also, Intertribal marriage is being shunned, due to stereotyped ethnic philosophy. For instance, some Yoruba folks would prevent their offspring from marrying someone who is Igbo, due to claims that anyone from that clan is a voodooist, or that they have fanatic beliefs about death and burial rites.

We are insufferable presently, but that’s what we chose. We have allowed sentiments cover our sense of judgment, by knowingly placing unsuitable persons in leadership positions. During political elections, people would vote for their tribesmen, despite being aware that they don’t befit these positions. They covet power and think the only way to get it is by debarring someone who is qualified, but from a different tribe, from getting any political placement.

A sage once said, “A country is built by two hands”. Forgetting caste, sect or ethnicity, we have to become our brothers keeper. We should also embrace the culture of cosmopolitanism. Nothing stops an Igbo man from munching Kilishi or Amala, and a Hausa man can learn Igbo, or wear Agbada. This way, with selfless love, wed reduce, or perhaps eradicate the problems terrorizing this nation.

Salim Yakubu Akko is a creative writer, essayist and poet from Gombe state, Nigeria.