Prof. Toyin Falola emphasized at the Prof. Ayo Olukotun Memorial Lecture that ethnic and religious politics pose significant threats to Nigeria’s unity and democratic progress. He criticized how these divisions undermine governance and influence political decisions, particularly during elections. Falola called for a political reorientation focused on merit and national interests, advocating for civic engagement beyond ethnic affiliations to support policies addressing core national issues.
In a recent address at the Prof. Ayo Olukotun Memorial Lecture, esteemed historian Prof. Toyin Falola highlighted ethnic and religious politics as critical threats to Nigeria’s unity and democratic advancements. He expressed concern regarding how these divisions undermine governance, weaken democratic institutions, and contribute to political instability in the nation.
Discussing the theme “Ayo Olukotun and the Nigerian Nation,” Prof. Falola asserted that ethnic and religious allegiances overshadow national discourse, leading to leadership focused on identity rather than merit. He stated, “This relegates the nation to a state of disunity,” emphasizing the destructive impact of these divisions on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
The historian cited the 2019 presidential election as an illustrative case, where tribal and religious affiliations dictated political choices, exacerbating mistrust among various ethnic and religious groups. Despite both leading candidates sharing regional and religious backgrounds, the election revealed persistent societal fractures, a point Falola underscored by asking about societal anxieties during such elections.
Beyond electoral processes, Falola articulated concerns regarding how ethnic and religious biases compromise key political appointments. He argued that this practice leads to governance weakened by mediocrity and sectional loyalty, undermining national interests and competent leadership.
Furthermore, Falola addressed the detrimental role of religion in politics, pointing out that rather than fostering accountability, it has become a tool for self-serving elites. He remarked, “Religion has been hijacked by political gladiators who act out of cynical self-interest.”
He also criticized how politicians manipulate religious sentiments to divert attention from their governance failures, arguing that rather than addressing pressing national issues, they exploit ethnic and religious divisions to secure votes and evade accountability.
To combat the influence of ethnic and religious politics, Falola advocated for a national reorientation towards political maturity, underscoring the importance of governance based on competence. He warned against sacrificing national unity for sectional sentiments, stating: “A nation so hopelessly divided such as Nigeria is today cannot make much progress.”
Falola emphasized that strengthening national institutions is vital to protecting democracy from ethnic and religious manipulation. He called upon civil society and the media to promote a political culture focused on policy-driven discussions.
Finally, he urged Nigerians to engage in civic activities that transcend ethnic and religious affiliations, demanding policies that address the nation’s core challenges. He articulated a compelling vision for governance centered on integrity and national progress, asserting, “We must choose the path of unity over division, competence over sentiment… Nigeria will not move forward until we dismantle the structures that fuel disunity.”
In conclusion, Prof. Toyin Falola delivered a thought-provoking lecture that underscored the threats posed by ethnic and religious politics to Nigeria’s unity and democratic progress. He called for a shift towards merit-based governance and national reorientation, urging citizens to prioritize collective interests over sectional affiliations. Falola’s insights serve as a catalyst for discussion on the need for unity and effective governance in the pursuit of Nigeria’s national development.
Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com
