Prof. Toyin Falola cautioned that ethnic and religious politics jeopardize Nigeria’s unity and democracy during the Prof. Ayo Olukotun Memorial Lecture. He criticized their detrimental effects on governance and national cohesion and emphasized the need for a shift towards competence-based leadership for progress. Falola urged civil engagement and the strengthening of national institutions to overcome these challenges.
In an incisive address at the Prof. Ayo Olukotun Memorial Lecture on March 18, 2025, Prof. Toyin Falola emphasized that ethnic and religious politics are major threats to Nigeria’s unity and democratic progression. He criticized the enduring influences of these divisive sentiments on Nigerian political practices, arguing that they undermine governance, weaken democratic institutions, and perpetuate political instability.
Prof. Falola underscored that ethnic and religious loyalties have overshadowed the merit and policy-driven approaches essential for effective governance. He noted these sectarian divisions have led to significant damage to national unity, which he succinctly described as relegating Nigeria to a state of disunity.
The 2019 presidential election was highlighted by Falola as an instance where tribal and religious sentiments dictated political decisions, despite the similarity in backgrounds of the leading candidates. This divisive election reinforced fears and distrust among various ethnic and religious groups rather than fostering unity.
Critically, he pointed out the adverse implications of ethnic and religious considerations upon political appointments, which he asserted promote mediocrity and sectarian loyalty over competence. Falola expressed concern that such practices have weakened the foundational structures of democracy, turning public office into a space for personal gain rather than for public service.
Addressing the role of religion, he expressed dismay that, instead of serving as a moral compass for integrity, it has become a political instrument employed by power-seeking elites. “Religion has been hijacked by political gladiators who act out of cynical self-interest, not caring for the larger good,” he stated.
Furthermore, Falola criticized politicians’ exploitation of religious sentiments to distract citizens from governance failures. He argued that leaders utilize ethnic and religious manipulation to secure votes while evading accountability for pressing national issues such as economic growth and security.
To combat these challenges, he called for national reorientation and political maturity, advocating for a shift towards governance based on competence rather than identity. He warned against sacrificing national progress for sectional sentiments, urging a reevaluation of Nigeria’s unity in diversity.
Strengthening national institutions was presented as crucial for protecting democracy from ethnic and religious manipulation. He implored civil society, intellectuals, and media to cultivate a political culture centered on policy-driven debates.
Falola also stressed the importance of civic engagement transcending ethnic or religious voting patterns, urging citizens to advocate for policies that address Nigeria’s fundamental challenges rather than supporting leaders based solely on their regional or religious affiliations.
The event, attended by scholars and political figures including Dr. Olorunnimbe Mamora and Prof. Kabiru Adeyemo, emphasized the need for a governance vision centered on competence and integrity. Falola concluded with a clarion call for unity and progress, affirming, “We must choose the path of unity over division, competence over sentiment, and governance over tribalism. “]
The commendable attendance at the Prof. Ayo Olukotun Memorial Lecture illustrated the collective acknowledgment of the need for a transformative approach to Nigeria’s political landscape. Falola’s reflections serve as a reminder of the critical necessity for systemic change.
Prof. Toyin Falola’s address underscores the pressing challenges posed by ethnic and religious politics to Nigeria’s unity and democratic progress. It articulates the detrimental impact of these divisions on governance and national identity. The lecture calls for a pivotal shift towards competence-based leadership and political maturity to foster national cohesion for a brighter future.
Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com
