Former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, has expressed his concerns about the persistent ethnic and religious tensions that continue to shape Nigerian politics. In an interview with Channels Television, Fayose highlighted the deep-rooted divisions that often influence public perceptions and reactions to political leadership across different ethnic groups.
Fayose pointed out that ethnic sentiments frequently color public discourse surrounding political leadership in Nigeria. He noted that when a leader from the Hausa ethnic group assumes power, there are often accusations of bias against the North or targeting Muslims and Fulanis. Similarly, when a Yoruba leader takes office, sentiments of regional pride emerge with calls for 'Oduduwa' interests. He also mentioned that when an Igbo leader holds a prominent position, concerns about secessionist ambitions surface, referencing historical grievances such as the Civil War.
Fayose remarked that these dynamics reflect a complex interplay of ethnic and regional loyalties, which have significant implications for Nigeria's political landscape. He emphasized that, against a backdrop of economic instability, insecurity, and social unrest, these divisions exacerbate the challenges facing the nation.
( Photo credit : The Vanguard Newspaper Verified Facebook Page )
Fayose stressed the urgent need for concerted efforts to overcome ethnic and religious barriers that hinder progress towards a more inclusive and cohesive society. He called for a united front in tackling issues that affect all citizens, regardless of their ethnic or religious affiliations.
Fayose explained that when a Hausa leader is in power, there are claims of bias against the North, targeting Muslims and Fulanis. When a Yoruba leader is in office, regional pride emerges with assertions that 'Oduduwa' interests must be upheld. If an Igbo leader assumes a prominent role, there are concerns about secessionist ambitions and historical grievances like the Civil War. He emphasized that these divisions contribute to the many problems plaguing the country.
( Photo credit : Channels Television Verified Facebook Page )
As per Channels Television, he remarked, "These dynamics reflect a complex interplay of ethnic and regional loyalties that have significant implications for Nigeria's political landscape."
"Against a backdrop of economic instability, insecurity, and social unrest, these divisions exacerbate the challenges facing the nation."
When an Hausa man is in power, they'll say this is against the North. They'll say they're targeting Muslims. They're targeting Fulanis. When a Yoruba man is there, they'll say this is our turn, Oduduwa will not allow this. If an Igbo man is there, they'll say you remember the Civil War, they want to carry Nigeria away. Our country is plagued by so many problems."
Click on the link below and watch the video starting from 49:20 minute mark
https://www.youtube.com/live/-qGOeRqqrB0?si=5ABEeblog2MLEIIO