Esteemed Professor Toyin Falola argues that ethnic and religious politics pose significant threats to Nigeria’s unity and democracy. In a recent lecture, he criticized the impact of these divisions on governance and democratic institutions. Falola called for a transition towards merit-based leadership and strong national institutions to move beyond identity politics and foster national cohesion.
Professor Toyin Falola, a distinguished historian, delivered a compelling lecture on March 18, 2025, at Lead City University, where he criticized the adverse impact of ethnic and religious politics on Nigeria’s unity and democratic development. He urged that these sectarian divisions have eroded national governance and weakened democratic institutions, generating ongoing political instability.
In his address themed “Ayo Olukotun and the Nigerian Nation,” Falola asserted that ethnic and religious affiliations often overshadow merit-based leadership, compromising governance through identity politics. He warned that such divisions have caused significant harm to Nigeria, leading to disunity and distrust within the populace.
Utilizing the 2019 presidential election as a testament, Falola illustrated how ethnic and religious sentiments dictate electoral choices, even among candidates sharing similar backgrounds. He identified this divisive dynamic as perpetuating fears and mistrust among various groups, thus exposing the fragility of national cohesion.
Falola criticized the prevailing tendency to prioritize ethnic and religious identities in political appointments, claiming this practice undermines governance and promotes mediocrity by favoring sectional loyalty over competence. He noted that this bias has weakened democratic foundations, transforming public office into a contested space driven by personal and sectional interests rather than national service.
Addressing the role of religion in politics, Falola stated that it has instead become a tool of power for self-interested elites, rather than a moral force advocating for accountability. He described how public office has become a realm for personal wealth accumulation, exacerbating religious and ethnic divisions.
Furthermore, Falola argued that politicians exploit religious sentiments to divert public attention from governance shortcomings. Rather than addressing critical national issues like economic growth and security, leaders manipulate ethnic and religious narratives to secure votes and evade accountability.
He emphasized the pressing need for a national reorientation towards political maturity, advocating for governance grounded in competence rather than sectional ties. Falola posited that Nigeria’s future hinges on transitioning from identity politics to leadership focused on substantive issues.
He emphasized that advancing national institutions is vital to defend democracy from ethnic and religious influences. Falola called upon civil society, intellectuals, and the media to foster a new political culture that favors issue-based discussions over emotional appeals to sentiments.
In this context, he urged citizens to engage constructively, transcending ethnic or religious lines while demanding policies that address the core challenges facing Nigeria. The event, attended by notable scholars and political figures, was presided over by Dr. Olorunnimbe Mamora, former senator, with remarks emphasizing the need for unity and integrity in governance.
Professor Toyin Falola poignantly articulated the significant threats posed by ethnic and religious politics to Nigeria’s stability and governance. His emphasis on the detrimental impacts of sectarianism and the call for a shift towards merit-based leadership resonates as a crucial strategy for national progress. The collective effort of the citizens, leaders, and institutions is imperative to foster a more unified and competent political landscape, free from the divisions that hinder Nigeria’s advancement.
Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com
