Professor Toyin Falola emphasized that ethnic and religious politics pose significant threats to Nigeria’s unity and democracy during the Prof. Ayo Olukotun Memorial Lecture. He criticized the impact of these divisions on governance, elections, and political appointments, arguing for a shift toward merit-based leadership. Falola called for a national reorientation and a focus on policy-driven governance.
Esteemed historian Professor Toyin Falola has asserted that ethnic and religious politics significantly threaten Nigeria’s unity and democratic progression. In his address during the Prof. Ayo Olukotun Memorial Lecture held on March 18, 2025, at Adeline Hall, Lead City University, Ibadan, he criticized how these allegiances impede national governance and undermine democratic institutions, leading to persistent political instability.
Focusing on the theme “Ayo Olukotun and the Nigerian Nation,” Professor Falola noted that such divisions diminish discussions on national interests, replacing them with identity politics, which often diminish merit-based leadership and policy-driven governance. He expressed concern that these historical rifts have profoundly harmed the nation, stating they have caused Nigeria to regress into disarray.
Using the 2019 presidential election as a case study, Professor Falola illustrated how deeply rooted tribal and religious sentiments influence political choices, even among candidates from similar backgrounds. Despite both leading candidates hailing from the same region and sharing a religious identity, the election exposed significant distrust among different ethnic groups, emphasizing the fragile nature of Nigeria’s national unity.
“Why is there so much apprehension and foreboding when the presidential race is mainly between two politicians of northern extraction, who belong to the same religion?” he questioned, highlighting the paradox of divisiveness among seemingly aligned candidates.
In addition to electoral politics, Falola criticized the influence of ethnic and religious biases on crucial political appointments, which he argued endangers effective governance, favors mediocrity, and undermines the principles of competence and national interest in leadership roles.
He remarked that instead of serving as a driving force for good governance, religion has been manipulated by political elites for self-serving purposes. He noted, “Instead of serving as a bulwark for the anti-corruption crusade, religion has been hijacked by political gladiators who act out of cynical self-interest, not caring for the larger good.”
Professor Falola further lamented how political leaders exploit religious sentiments to divert attention from governmental shortcomings, emphasizing the need for a shift from ethnic and religious manipulation to a focus on pressing national matters such as economic development and security.
To mitigate the detrimental effects of ethnic and religious politics, Professor Falola advocated for a national reorientation and a maturity in political approach. He urged a governance model emphasizing competence over sectional affiliations, stressing that Nigeria’s future relies on transitioning from identity politics to policy-driven leadership.
“We cannot keep sacrificing national progress on the altar of sectional sentiment,” he cautioned, arguing that rebuilding national cohesion is essential for advancement. Strengthening national institutions is also crucial to protect democracy from manipulation by these biases.
Professor Falola called on civil society, intellectuals, and the media to foster a political culture that prioritizes discussions on policies rather than sentimental issues. He urged Nigerians to demand accountability and focus on the nation’s central challenges rather than vote based on ethnic or religious identities.
The Prof. Ayo Olukotun Memorial Lecture attracted an esteemed audience, including notable scholars, political figures, and intellectuals, reflecting a commitment to advancing national discourse. Dr. Olorunnimbe Mamora, the former Federal Senator, presided over the event and shared insightful reflections. The Vice Chancellor of Lead City University, Professor Kabiru Adeyemo, along with other key figures such as Dr. Dyebola Ayeni and Dr. Igho Fayomi, contributed significantly to the organization of this momentous occasion.
In conclusion, Professor Falola urged both leaders and citizens to adopt a transformative vision for governance based on competence and a dedication to national advancement. He emphasized, “We must choose the path of unity over division, competence over sentiment, and governance over tribalism. Nigeria will not move forward until we dismantle the structures that fuel disunity and put national interest above sectional loyalty.”
In summary, Professor Toyin Falola’s address highlights the urgent need to address the detrimental impact of ethnic and religious politics on Nigeria’s unity and democratic processes. His call for merit-based governance and national reorientation urges citizens to prioritize competence over identity, advocating for a political culture that fosters national discourse and accountability. Only by overcoming these divisive structures can Nigeria hope to achieve true unity and progress.
Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com
