ETHNIC CONFLICTS IN NIGERIA: IMPLICATIONS ON GOOD GOVERNANCE
Authors:
ALAO David
Publication Type: Journal article
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ISSN Number:
0
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Abstract
Nigeria, as a multi ethnic nation, has continued to grapple with the challenges of curbing the incessant ethnic conflicts that have constituted a serious challenge and put the unity and peaceful co-existence of the various ethnic groups in the country at a risk.. This study examined the effects of ethnic crisis on governance in Nigeria, with the aim of suggesting how ethnic plurality can serve as a centripetal rather than centrifugal force in the country. The study adopted qualitative method of study. Materials were mostly derived from secondary sources and content analysis method was used to analyze data collected. The study discovered that ethnicity was a political behaviuor by political elites, capitalizing on the settlement pattern, indegeneship, competition for political and economic resources and government failure to seriously address issues of conflict. The conflicts have led to loss of lives, destruction of property, refugees crises and diversion of government attention and resources from business of governance to conflict maintenance. The study recommended human capital development, equity, fair play and justice on the part of the government, proactive conflict management and the strong political will to tackle the issues of conflict adequately.