The political landscape in Nigeria has been characterized by various comments and accusations from political leaders, with some of these comments bordering on tribalism and division.
In a video making round on social, Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, an Igbo leader, referred to the Yoruba people as political rascals.
This statement was made in the presence of former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, who is a Yoruba man. This comment has raised questions about the representation of Yoruba interests by Olusegun Obasanjo, and the alleged tribalistic tendencies of the Igbo people.
The Igbo people are known for their outspokenness and criticism of the government, often holding the ruling party accountable for their political misfortunes. However, in the just-concluded 2023 general elections, some Igbo people made a controversial statement that Lagos was “No Man’s Land.”
This statement did not go down well with the Yoruba people, who felt it was a direct threat to their interest in Lagos. As a result, the Yoruba people responded appropriately, defending their interest and protecting their territory.
The reaction of the Yoruba people to the “No Man’s Land” statement has led to accusations of tribalism against them by the Igbo people. The Igbo people have referred to the Yoruba people as tribalistic, despite being their hosts for many decades. It is important to note that the Igbo people have been castigating the Hausa/Fulani people for years, both online and offline. However, they have never seen themselves as being tribalistic.
The issue of tribalism in Nigeria is a sensitive one, and it is not uncommon for political leaders to make divisive comments that stir up tension among the various ethnic groups. However, it is important to recognize that tribalism is not a one-sided issue. All ethnic groups in Nigeria have been guilty of making divisive comments that undermine the unity of the country.
It is worth noting that Nigeria is a multi-ethnic country, and each ethnic group has its unique culture and traditions. While it is important to celebrate these differences, it is also important to recognize that we are all Nigerians, and our common identity should unite us, rather than divide us.
The recent comments made by Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu about the Yoruba people being political rascals is an unfortunate statement that promotes tribalism and division. It is important for political leaders to choose their words carefully and avoid making comments that could incite violence or promote tribalism.
It is also important for Nigerians to recognize that we are all Nigerians, regardless of our ethnicity, and that our common identity should unite us in our pursuit of a better and more prosperous Nigeria.
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