The Politics of Ethnicity: Threat to the Unity of Nigeria

Abstract

This paper examines how ethnic politics hampers National Unity in Nigeria. The issue of ethnicity has become a threat to socio-political and economic development of the country. The paper used secondary sources of data collection and adopts system theory as a theoretical framework for analysis. The findings of the paper revealed that ethnic politics in Nigeria have caused a number of civil disturbances resulting into religious clashes, molestations, rampages, destruction of properties, ethnic conflicts, hatred, suspicion and disunity. Based on these findings, the paper concludes that urgent measures to mitigate ethnic tensions are needed to foster greater cohesion and national development. The paper offers some plausible recommendations for mitigating ethnic tensions, advocating for reforms such as true federalism, democratic governance, constitutional review, and the cultivation of a unified national identity.